Want to share your thoughts on America and democracy?
The Voice of Democracy Scholarship might be perfect for you!
Since 1947, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) has run this exciting competition. High school students create audio essays about democratic values and patriotism.
This program helps young people become active citizens. It encourages students to think deeply about their role in democracy.
The contest is open to all students in grades 9-12. This includes students at U.S. schools and overseas military schools.
Ready to make your voice heard?
Show Your Patriotic Spirit: This Year’s Theme Revealed
This year’s Voice of Democracy theme is “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
This question asks you to think about your own actions and daily choices.
How do you support America in your everyday life? Maybe you volunteer in your community. Perhaps you help neighbors or participate in school government.
People are talking more about how citizens can get involved. Community service counts. So does learning about history or helping others vote.
The best part? You get to define what patriotism means to you.
Voice of Democracy Eligibility Criteria
Before you start writing your audio essay, make sure you qualify for the competition.
The Voice of Democracy has clear rules about who can participate. Most high school students can enter, but there are a few important details to know.
| REQUIREMENT | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | Must be in grades 9-12 by October 31 deadline |
| School Type | Public, private, parochial, or home study programs accepted |
| Location | U.S., its territories, or overseas U.S. military/civilian schools |
| Residency Status | U.S. citizenship not required, but must be lawful permanent resident or have applied for permanent residency |
| Age Limit | Must be under 20 years old |
| Previous Winners | Cannot enter if you already won first place at state level |
| Exchange Students | Foreign exchange students are not eligible |
Did You Know? The competition welcomes students who aren’t U.S. citizens yet! As long as you’re working toward permanent residency with plans to become a citizen, you can share your voice.
Voice of Democracy Application Process
Ready to submit your entry? The application process is straightforward but has specific requirements.
Follow these steps to make sure your submission is complete and on time.
Step 1: Write Your Original Essay
Create a 3-5 minute audio essay on this year’s theme: “How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?”
Start by writing it out as a typed document first. Make sure your ideas are clear, personal, and engaging. Practice reading it aloud multiple times to check the timing and flow.
Remember, this is your chance to share what patriotism means to you and how you live it every day.
Step 2: Record Your Audio Version
Record yourself reading the essay clearly on a flash drive or electronic device.
Choose a quiet space with good acoustics to ensure clear sound quality. Speak at a steady, natural pace so judges can understand every word. Test your recording equipment beforehand and make a backup copy.
The audio quality can make or break your submission, so take time to get it right.
Step 3: Complete the Official Entry Form
Fill out the VFW entry form completely and accurately.
Double-check all your personal information, school details, and contact information. Make sure you sign where required and include any needed parent or guardian signatures.
Download the form from the VFW website or get it from your local VFW Post to ensure you have the current version.
Step 4: Gather and Review All Materials
Collect your typed essay, audio recording, and completed entry form in one package.
Create a checklist and review everything multiple times before submission. Missing components or incomplete forms can automatically disqualify your entry.
Consider having a teacher or parent help you review everything to catch any overlooked details.
Step 5: Submit by October 31 Deadline
Turn in all materials to a participating VFW Post by the October 31 deadline.
You can submit through the Scholar’s App platform or deliver directly to your local VFW Post. Find your nearest post using the VFW Post Locator.
Don’t wait until the last minute, as technical issues or missing posts could cause problems.
Voice of Democracy Judging Criteria
Your audio essay will be evaluated on three main areas that each carry different weights. Understanding these criteria helps you focus your efforts where they matter most.
- Originality Counts for 30%: Bring fresh ideas and your unique voice to the theme.
- Content is Worth 35%: Organize your thoughts clearly with deep, meaningful ideas
- Delivery Also Weighs 35%: Present your essay with confidence and engagement
- Audio Quality Matters: Clear speaking and good recording help judges focus on your message
- Personal Connection Wins: Share real examples of how you show patriotism in your life
Remember, content and delivery together make up 70% of your score.
Focus on crafting a well-organized essay and practicing your presentation skills to maximize your chances of success.
Voice of Democracy Scholarship Awards
The Voice of Democracy program offers some of the most generous scholarship awards available to high school students.
With over $2 million distributed annually, there are opportunities to win at every level of competition.
| AWARD LEVEL | PRIZE AMOUNT | ADDITIONAL BENEFITS |
|---|---|---|
| National First Place | $35,000 | Top scholarship award |
| Other National Awards | $1,000 – $21,000 | Multiple winners at national level |
| State Winners | Minimum $1,000 | All-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. |
| Local/District Awards | Varies by location | Recognition and advancement opportunities |
The scholarship money goes directly toward your college education or other post-secondary training. Even if you don’t win nationally, state winners get an amazing experience visiting the nation’s capital.
Important Voice of Democracy Dates
Start working on your essay early to avoid last-minute stress.
The October deadline comes quickly once school starts. State winners get just a few months to prepare for the national competition in our nation’s capital.
Plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to create, record, and polish your submission.
Tips to Stand Out in Voice of Democracy
These proven strategies will help your submission rise above the crowd and catch the judges’ attention.
- Tell Your Personal Story: Share real experiences that show how you live patriotism every day.
- Structure Your Essay Clearly: Use a strong opening, organized body, and powerful conclusion.
- Practice Your Delivery Repeatedly: Rehearse until you sound confident and natural on recording.
- Follow Every Single Guideline: Double-check formatting, timing, and submission requirements perfectly.
- Connect Emotionally With Judges: Make them feel your passion for the theme and your country.
Your unique perspective and personal connection to patriotism are what will make your essay unforgettable.
Wrapping It Up
The Voice of Democracy Scholarship opens doors to both financial support and personal growth. This competition challenges you to think deeply about your role as a young American.
It connects you with veterans who value your voice and perspective.
Winning isn’t just about the money. You’ll develop public speaking skills and confidence that last a lifetime. You’ll join a community of students who care about their country’s future.
Your story of patriotism deserves to be heard.
Start planning your essay today and take the first step toward making your voice count in American democracy.
