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 64,500 9-12 grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $2 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.
The 2022-23 theme is:
"Why is the Veteran Important?"
"Why is the Veteran Important?"
Patriot's Pen
Each year, nearly 68,800 students in grades 6-8 enter the VFW’s Patriot’s Pen youth essay contest for a chance to win their share of more than $1.4
million in state and national awards. Each first place state winner
receives a minimum of $500 at the national level, and the national first
place winner wins $5,000!
The essay contest encourages young minds to examine America’s
history, along with their own experiences in modern American society, by
drafting a 300- to 400-word essay, expressing their views based on a
patriotic theme chosen by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. Before submitting
your essay, read the rules and eligibility requirements, and find your sponsoring local VFW Post as applications must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31. Download and complete the 2022-2023 entry form here.
The 2022-23 theme is:
"My Pledge to Our Veterans."