Established in 1947, the Voice of Democracy Program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient's American university, college or vocational/technical school. The Voice of Democracy is open to students in grades 9-12 who are enrolled in a public, private or parochial high school or home study program in the United States, its territories and possessions; or dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in overseas schools. Although U.S. citizenship is not required, students must be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence (the application for which has not been denied) and intend to become a U.S. citizen at the earliest opportunity allowed by law. Foreign exchange students, students age 20 or over, GED or Adult Education Students are ineligible. Applicants must record their original 3-5 minute audio essay on a flash drive, or other electronic device. They will submit the recording, typed essay and the completed entry form. Applicants must be the sole author of their essay. Inappropriate use of ChatGPT or other AI tools is not allowed. The recording must be in the applicant's own voice and in English. Hearing or speech impaired students should email the Voice of Democracy National Office for special instructions. No music, singing, poetry or sound effects are allowed. General references to nationality or patriotic identity (such as being an American or referencing American values) are permitted if they are relevant to the essay theme. However, personal identifiers tied to the applicant's individual background or experience should be avoided. Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed 2025-2026 entry form, to their local participating VFW Post. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.