Youth Scholarships

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $30,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

Voice of Democracy

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 40,000 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of $2.1 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first-place winner receives a $30,000 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-$16,000, and the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) wins a minimum scholarship of $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C. Want to apply? Read the rules and eligibility requirements and download the entry form and brochure before you submit your entry at your local VFW Post. 

The 2018-19 theme is: 
Why My Vote Matters

About the 2017-18 winner ...

Robyn Anzulis, a senior at South Carroll High School in Sykesville, Md., was named the 2017-18 Voice of Democracy first-place winner. Robyn's speech on the theme, "American History: Our Hope for the Future," won her a $30,000 college scholarship. Robyn was sponsored by VFW Post 10076 and its Auxiliary in Mt. Airy, Md.

Watch Robyn deliver her speech, or see the complete list of 2018 winners.

http://www.vfwfl.org/uploads/Documents/PatriotsPenStudentEntryFormandBrochure.pdf