2025-2026 Voice of Democracy Scholarship Competition.
Apply through the ScholarsApp!
VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship then this scholarship may be for you.
Did you know the great American Journalist Charles Kuralt was once a winner of the VFW's Voice of Democracy Scholarship competition?
Check out his video message below!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wnt5i38_csM
Now, it is YOUR turn!!
Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 25,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.3 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. A complete list of other national scholarships range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins at least a scholarship of $1,000.
Download the student guide HERE.
Download all the ScholarsApp information HERE.
Essays MUST be turned in via the ScholarsApp before midnight 31 Oct.
About the 2024-2025 winner ...
Tri Vu, a high school senior at Central High School from Manchester, New Hampshire, was named the 2024-2025 Voice of Democracy first place winner. Tri's speech on the theme, "Is America Today Our Forefathers' Vision?" was awarded the top prize of a $35,000 college scholarship. Sponsored by Queen City Memorial VFW Post 8214 in Manchester, New Hampshire, unfortunately Tri was unable to attend the ceremony, but accepted the award via video message. Read his essay here.
The 2025-26 Theme is: "How Are You Showing Patriotism And Support For Our Country?"
HOW TO ENTER:Loudoun County Virginia students should prepare their essay on this year's theme and then record themselves reading the essay.
(For Students residing outside of Loudoun County Virginia, please click HERE to find a
VFW Post near you!)
The recording can be no shorter than 3 minutes and no longer than 5 minutes
(plus or minus 5 seconds).
The completed application should then be submitted via the ScholarsAPP
before 31 Oct.
JUDGING:
Judging begins at the Post Level. Loudoun County VFW Post 1177 will select a
winner from Loudoun County to compete in this prestigious competition at the
District (Northern Va.) level and then that winner will move up to State then National!
For more information or any questions you may have, please contact the VOD Team at contact1177@vfw1177.org ATTN: VOD
