The CMS-A is sponsoring 100 scholarships annually for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, individuals identifying as Women, and individuals experiencing financial hardship for the CMS-A Introductory Sommelier Course & Examination.

Eligibility

• These scholarships are open to any student, restaurant, hospitality, or beverage education professional.
• Applicants must be 21+ years of age 
• Awarded recipients opting for the online format must be able to provide a valid **U.S. shipping address suitable for receiving alcoholic beverages related to the tasting portion of the programming.

Timing

• An application window will open at the beginning of each quarter, with 25 new scholarships awarded every quarter. 
• The scholarship may be applied to any future in-person CMS-A Introductory Sommelier Course and Examination or upcoming Online Course. 
• Please Note: applications for those currently enrolled in the Course, or for those who have previously completed the Course, will not be eligible.
• Scholarship recipients will be selected on a quarterly basis. Individuals that do not receive a scholarship may re-submit an application during future application periods.

Process

• Scholarships will be awarded by a committee consisting of: CMS-A Access and Community Engagement Committee members, wine professionals, and Master Sommeliers. 
• Committee members will assess applications blindly, without knowledge of any identifying characteristics of applicants (Name, gender identity, sexual orientation, religious affiliation, or race). Each application will be assessed based on the merit of responses and applicant’s financial need. 

For additional information and to submit an application, please use this link.