VOICE OF DEMOCRACY
Since 1947, the Voice of Democracy has been the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ (VFW’s) premier scholarship program. Each year, more than 26,000 high school students in grades 9-12 compete for more than $1 million in scholarships and incentives. Students compete by writing and recording an audio essay on an annual patriotic theme.
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.
Want to apply? Download and complete the 2025-2026 entry form. All student entries must be submitted to our Post by October 31st.
The 2025-26 theme is "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
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.
Want to apply? Download and complete the 2025-2026 entry form. All student entries must be submitted to our Post by October 31st.
The 2025-26 theme is "How Are You Showing Patriotism and Support for Our Country?"
Submit entries to [email protected] or
George L. Wood VFW Post 5594, PO Box 472, 15 Milford Street, Upton, MA 01568
All entries must be received no later than October 31, 2025.
George L. Wood VFW Post 5594, PO Box 472, 15 Milford Street, Upton, MA 01568
All entries must be received no later than October 31, 2025.
Looking to share updated information and materials on VFW's Voice of Democracy, Patriot's Pen and Teacher Award programs? Share our National Scholarship Brochure with the students and educators in your community.
