2025-26 Voice of Democracy Theme:

How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?

Student Entry Deadline: October 31, 2025
Patriotic Essay Writing Contest Grand Prize: $35,000 Award

VFW Post 1760 is an active sponsor for the Voice of Democracy annual competition. It is an annual nationwide scholarship program sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW). It is an audio-essay contest for high school students in grades 9-12.

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, 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.

*VFW Post 1760 gives a certificate award & financial award for the top 3 finishers in voting.

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 a minimum scholarship of $1,000 and an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C..

2025-26 Voice of Democracy theme:

" How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country? "

Download the 2025-26 Voice of Democracy entry form application

All student entries must be submitted to a sponsoring local VFW Post by midnight, Oct. 31st.

More information on VFW's National website > Youth Scholarships

Deadlines for program: