Helping Our Own Go Further
Retaining and advancing top talent is crucial to help the hotel and lodging workforce flourish. Professional certifications are the ultimate distinction of excellence in the hospitality industry.
Certifications are offered for 20+ positions in the hospitality industry, including the prestigious CHA®-Certified Hotel Administrator. Scholarships cover the cost of the certification study guide (if applicable), examination fee, and certification fee.
Application Process
Applicants must complete the online scholarship application. All applications will be evaluated according to industry-related work experience; professional, community, and extracurricular activities; and personal attributes, including career goals as expressed in a required essay. Scholarships are awarded on a monthly basis. Applicants will be notified within 30 days after application is received.
Eligibility Criteria
- Current hotel employee working a minimum of 35 hours per week at an AHLA member hotel.
- At least 12 months of hotel employment experience.
Some certifications have minimum qualifications that must be met. The certification process is administered through the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). Visit AHLEI’s website for a complete list of certifications and to review the qualifications for each.
Scholarship Awards
Scholarships cover the cost of the certification study guide (if applicable), examination fee, and certification fee. AHLA Foundation will reimburse AHLEI directly for the costs of all professional development scholarships.
