Voice of Democracy & Patriot’s Pen Scholarship Competitions Now Open

Students are invited to participate in the annual Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 12003 scholarship competitions, Voice of Democracy (VOD) for high schoolers and Patriot’s Pen (PP) for middle schoolers. These national competitions encourage students to reflect on and express their patriotism while competing for scholarship prizes.

Applications are due by October 31, 2025.


Voice of Democracy (Grades 9–12)

  • Open to students in grades 9–12 enrolled by the October 31 deadline

  • Submit a 3–5 minute audio and written essay

  • Theme: “How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?”

  • National Prize: $35,000 scholarshipKansas - District 1 - Post 1200…

Students must be lawful U.S. permanent residents or have applied for permanent residence (not yet denied) and intend to become U.S. citizens at the earliest opportunity.
Direct link: bit.ly/4gvwQUV


Patriot’s Pen (Grades 6–8)

  • Open to students in grades 6–8 enrolled by the October 31 deadline

  • Submit a 300–400 word essay

  • Theme: “How are you showing patriotism and support for our country?”

  • National Prize: $5,000 scholarshipKansas - District 1 - Post 1200…

Eligibility requirements are the same as for Voice of Democracy.

Direct link: bit.ly/47vJOhv


Students can apply through Scholar’s App using a personal device if the platform is blocked on school networks. Don’t miss this opportunity to share your voice and earn scholarship money!

Voice of Democracy & Patriot’s Pen Scholarship Competitions Now OpenVoice of Democracy & Patriot’s Pen Scholarship Competitions Now Open