Key Takeaway
- Receiving the Presidential Scholarship is considered one of the highest honors a high school senior can earn.
- This scholarship recognizes up to 161 students across the nation who have demonstrated excellence in academics, arts, or career and technical education (CTE).
- Students can apply for the Presidential Scholarship by invitation only.
- Eligible students will need to complete an application with essay questions, as well as include a list of their accomplishments (activities, community involvement, and work).
As a high school senior, earning the Presidential Scholarship is one of the highest honors you can achieve. But do you know what exactly the Presidential Scholarship is and how you receive it?
Many colleges have their own scholarships called “Presidential Scholarships,” but those are different from the United States Scholars Program. This prestigious award is given to seniors who are high achievers and demonstrate strong leadership abilities. In this guide, we’ll explain what the Presidential Scholars Program is all about—who can apply, how it works, and what you can get from it.
What Is the Presidential Scholarship?
The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program recognizes students for their exceptional achievements in and out of the classroom. The program’s Presidential Scholarship started in 1964. At first, it only focused on students with strong academic achievements. But in 2015, it grew to also celebrate seniors who are talented in the arts and those who are skilled in career and technical fields.
While the Presidential Scholarship doesn’t include a monetary award, it still offers significant benefits. For starters, it gives access to valuable opportunities that most students don’t get. Selected scholars are invited on an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., where they will connect with other top students, have a chance to network, and experience the city. Plus, just holding the title of this scholarship can open doors to future scholarships.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements?
Students may be eligible for the general component, the arts component, or the Career and Technical Education (CTE) component. The eligibility requirements are highly selective and evaluate candidates on several qualities. As a candidate, you will need to:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
- Receive a diploma within the current year
- Score extremely well on the ACT or SAT
- Demonstrate high achievement in academics, the arts, or CTE
- Exhibit leadership qualities
- Show school or community involvement
What Does the Application Look Like for the Presidential Scholarship?
To apply for the Presidential Scholarship, you must be invited. Without a nomination, you cannot apply individually. If selected as an eligible candidate, you will be responsible for providing the following items:
- Student Information Form: Here, you will provide your personal and contact details.
- Biographical Questionnaire: This section of the application requires you to provide your education history, SAT or ACT scores, extracurriculars, special talents, community activities, and jobs. You will also answer four short essay questions about your personal growth, your perspective on art or global change, your community contributions, and a challenge you’ve faced.
- Teacher Nomination: Name an educator who has influenced you the most and explain why.
- Essay: For your essay, you will need to attach a photo of someone or something and explain its significance to you.
- Affirmation Form: This confirms you’re an eligible candidate and allows the release of your materials if you’re chosen.
- Letter of Recommendation: A principal or educator will need to fill out a form that includes short essay prompts. They will also need to submit your transcript and test scores.
How To Receive the Presidential Scholarship
To be considered for the Presidential Scholarship, you’ll be competing with some of the nation’s top high school seniors. So, you’ll want to stand out as a strong candidate. To do this well, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Score in the top percentile for the ACT or SAT.
- Demonstrate impressive talent in the creative arts or CTE.
- Highlight your unique experiences through thoughtful responses in the prompts and essay questions.
- List every one of your accomplishments—academic, artistic, and community-based. Make your impact clear.
The judges may choose up to 161 applicants to be recognized each year.
The Impact of a Presidential Scholarship
Receiving the Presidential Scholarship isn’t just about receiving a title—it’s a prestigious honor that can help shape your future. Not only is it a recognition of all of the hard work you have put in over your high school career, but it also sets you apart as a leader. This is a title that stays with you as a reminder to keep striving for greatness and to always pursue your passions.
Curious about what other scholarships you qualify for? College Raptor’s Scholarship Search tool saves you the search time and instantly matches you with scholarships you can apply for—saving you time and helping you find more ways to fund your education.
