National High School Oratorical Contest
Scholarship · The American Legion · Local post → state → national
Constitutional oratory competition with scholarships at every level.
Our take
A prepared speech on the Constitution plus an assigned topic. Local rounds are small; state champions win real scholarships and go to nationals.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- The American Legion
- Type
- Scholarship
- Format
- In person, Local post → state → national
- When
- During the school year
- Who can apply
- 9th–12th grade
- How hard to get in
- Competitive
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Usually closes in December or January. Through your local American Legion post; most run December–January.
- Subjects
- Communications, Law / Policy, Social Sciences
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is National High School Oratorical Contest worth it?
A prepared speech on the Constitution plus an assigned topic. Local rounds are small; state champions win real scholarships and go to nationals. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it solid.
How much does National High School Oratorical Contest cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the National High School Oratorical Contest deadline?
Usually closes in December or January. Through your local American Legion post; most run December–January. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to National High School Oratorical Contest?
Students in 9th–12th grade. It is competitive.
Want a list picked for you?
Clarity Prep members get opportunities matched to their grade, interests and state in the app, plus a mentor who helps them decide what’s worth applying to and checks in every week until the applications are in.
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