Washington Apple Education Foundation Scholarships

The Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to help students from tree fruit families pursue their dreams in any major at a university or vocational/technical school. We offer a portfolio of scholarships funded by generous tree fruit companies and individuals in the local area who believe in students like you.

What is WAEF?

The Washington Apple Education Foundation (WAEF) is a non-profit organization whose purpose is to help students from tree fruit families pursue their dreams in any major at a university or vocational/technical school. We offer a portfolio of scholarships funded by generous tree fruit companies and individuals in the local area who believe in students like you. Think of us as a clearinghouse for scholarships plus wraparound services like mentoring and career readiness training to ensure your success.

What do I get from a WAEF Scholarship?

WAEF is more than a scholarship. Along with financial support, you’ll be part of a community that’s invested in your success. Students receive encouragement from industry mentors, invitations to career readiness activities like workshops, tours, and job shadows, and personal touches such as care packages while you’re in school. From your application, through college, and into your career, WAEF is here to support you in graduating on time and preparing for what comes next.

What’s the application process?

The application process is simple. You go online to our application submission app to apply. The application gives you an opportunity to share how you’re unique and worthy of a scholarship. You’ll provide information about your household income, extra-curricular activities, a personal statement, short answers to a few prompts, a transcript, and a letter of recommendation. After that our selection committee will review your application in detail to learn all about you, then they will match your application to each and every scholarship for which you qualify. In some cases the committee will also interview you, either in person or virtually. Finally, the committee will carefully weigh all applications, make selections, and notify all applicants of their individual results.

What’s the timeline?

You can apply anytime between October 20 and March 2—that’s the final deadline. Scholarship recipients will be notified by the end of May. Be sure to submit all parts of your application on time!

Check Your Eligibility

Current high school seniors and college students with direct family ties to Washington’s tree fruit industry—such as employment or ownership in apple, cherry, or pear orchards, warehouses, or related businesses—are eligible to apply. Students without existing ties may also qualify if they plan to pursue a degree and career supporting the tree fruit industry. Some scholarships have additional requirements.