VFW Voice of Democracy

The 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, more than 26,400 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.4 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program.

The Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9-12 who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States; or dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in
overseas schools. Although U.S. citizenship is not required, studentsmust be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence .

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school.