Voice of Democracy
Scholarship · Veterans of Foreign Wars · Local VFW post → state → national
Audio-essay scholarship competition open to grades 9–12.
Our take
A recorded 3–5 minute essay. Local posts often get few entries, so the first rounds are very winnable; the national winner gets $35,000.
“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
- Veterans of Foreign Wars
- Type
- Scholarship
- Format
- In person, Local VFW 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 October. Submit to a local post by October 31.
- Subjects
- Communications, Social Sciences, Writing
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is Voice of Democracy worth it?
A recorded 3–5 minute essay. Local posts often get few entries, so the first rounds are very winnable; the national winner gets $35,000. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it solid.
How much does Voice of Democracy cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the Voice of Democracy deadline?
Usually closes in October. Submit to a local post by October 31. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to Voice of Democracy?
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.
Free tools: GPA calculator · chances calculator · college acceptance rates · essay grader