Each year, nearly 28,000 9th through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.6 million in educational scholarships and incentives.

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college, or vocational/technical school. The complete list of other national scholarships ranges up to $21,000, with the first-place winner from each VFW Department (state) winning a scholarship of at least $1,000.

VFW Department first place winners also receive a trip to participate in the Spirit of America Youth Leadership experience at Valley Forge, PA, which is an inspiring four-day program where students experience mock congressional debates, participate in a free enterprise challenge, visit historical sites and engage in interactive educational activities.

Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed entry form to their local participating VFW Post. Download the 2026-2027 entry form, then find your sponsoring local VFW Post as essays must be turned in by midnight, Oct. 31, 2026.

 The 2026-27 theme is: "What a Veteran Taught Me About America.”