Next Generation Scholarship

The NRF Foundation and retail executive judges are searching for high-performing students who demonstrate a passion for retail and a unique, innovative perspective on our industry to apply for the NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship. Recipients will be ambitious, adaptable and have the potential to impact the future of retail.

The Application

The 2026 NRF Foundation Next Generation Scholarship application consists of two phases. In the first phase, applicants will submit an essay, personal brand video, one letter of recommendation, resume, headshot and school transcripts. 

Applicants will be notified by June 24, 2026, if they are selected to move on to the semifinalist stage. In this phase, 25 students are required to complete a case study created in collaboration with the retail partner Under Armour, and two interviews with assigned retailers by Aug. 10, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. ET.

From there, ten students will advance and complete quick-fire video interviews with the NRF team. The top five finalists will then be selected and notified by October 6, 2026. The finalists will complete final round interviews with members of the NRF Foundation Board of Directors to determine the top recipient.

The top recipient will receive a $25,000 tuition scholarship and will serve on the NRF Foundation Board of Directors for one year. Four finalists will receive $10,000 tuition scholarships each.