Established in 1947, the VFW 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 25,000 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 national first place winner receives a $30,000 scholarship. However, to even be judged at the national level you must win first place at the post level, the district level, and at the state department level. Each level has a scholarship prize award for winning first place.
It all starts with entering your submission at the post level. According to the application, entries must be received to the post by midnight on October 31st. However, the post is not open until midnight so it is your responsibility to contact the representatives on the entry form to make sure you submission will be time for judging.
Click here to upload the entry form for the 2025-2026 VOD scholarship.
Please note the VOD is an audio and written file submission. It is preferred to submit the audio portion on a flash drive. The submissions will not be returned to the applicants.
The 2023-2024 VOD winner was from Scottsdale, AZ Post 3513. You can watch her deliver her speech in Washington D.C. here.
