Scholarships - Isadore Hoehn VFW Post 7397
2026–2027 VFW Youth Scholarship Programs
Inspire the Next Generation Through Patriotism
The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and VFW Auxiliary are proud to sponsor two nationally recognized scholarship programs that encourage students to reflect on the values of freedom, citizenship, and service.
Theme
"What a Veteran Taught Me About America"
Whether through a family member, neighbor, teacher, coach, or another veteran, students are encouraged to share how a veteran has influenced their understanding of America and the freedoms we enjoy.
Submission Deadline: October 31, 2026 (VFW)
Patriot's Pen
Grades 6–8
Patriot's Pen is a nationwide essay competition that gives middle school students the opportunity to express their thoughts on patriotism through a 300–400 word essay.
Students compete for awards and scholarships at the:
- Local VFW Post
- District
- State
- National levels
National scholarships total more than $1 million, including a $5,000 first-place award. (VFW)
Who Can Enter?
- Students in Grades 6–8
- Enrolled in a public, private, parochial, or home school program
Essay Theme
"What a Veteran Taught Me About America"
Voice of Democracy
Grades 9–12
Voice of Democracy is the VFW's premier scholarship program for high school students.
Students submit a 3–5 minute recorded audio essay based on the annual patriotic theme.
Participants compete for scholarships at the:
- Local VFW Post
- District
- State
- National levels
More than $1.6 million in scholarships and incentives are awarded nationally each year, including the $35,000 first-place scholarship. (VFW)
Who Can Enter?
- Students in Grades 9–12
- Enrolled in a public, private, parochial, or home school program
Essay Theme
"What a Veteran Taught Me About America"
How To Enter
Students should complete the official entry form through the Scholar's App site, ensuring Isadore Hoehn VFW Post 7397 is the location accepting the submission. The deadline is October 31, 2026.
Applications and program information is listed above.
Why Participate
These scholarship programs help students:
- Develop research and writing skills
- Improve public speaking and communication
- Learn about America's history and veterans
- Compete for local, state, and national scholarships
- Build an impressive addition to college and scholarship applications
VFW 2025 National Youth Scholarship Winners Named
New Hampshire high school senior takes home top $35,000 scholarship
March 03, 2025
WASHINGTON – Tonight the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly presented nearly $175,000 in national scholarships and awards as it named the winners of its 2024-2025 Voice of Democracy® and Patriot’s Pen® youth scholarship competitions.
VFW 2024 National Youth Scholarship Winners Named
Arizona high school junior takes home first place $35,000 scholarship
March 04, 2024
WASHINGTON – Tonight the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly presented more than $173,000 in scholarships and awards as it named the national winners of its 2023-2024 Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen youth scholarship competitions.