Perhaps you have heard of the Presidential Scholarship and you don’t exactly know how to apply for it. No need to worry. Today’s article is aimed at discussing the U.S. Presidential Scholarship, its eligibility and requirements, how to apply as an international student, and more. Therefore, read through this write-up to the end.
What Is the U.S. Presidential Scholarship About?
Founded in 1964 by Executive Order, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was created to acknowledge and celebrate some of the country’s most exceptional graduating high school seniors. These students are recognized in many areas, such as academic success, leadership, school and community service, and more.
Meanwhile, in 1974, the U.S. Presidential Scholarship was extended to award students with outstanding talent in the visual, creative, and performing arts. And in 2015, the scheme was again improved to award distinguished students in career and technical education.
Students from across states in the U.S. can achieve their goals and aim to become outstanding leaders and more. Scholars can become Presidential Scholars through three different paths of achievement. The majority of scholars are chosen based on their overall academic performance.
An extra twenty students are chosen based on their academic and artistic scholarship in the visual arts, performing arts, or creative writing. Another twenty students are chosen for their great scholarship and achievements in the fields of career and technical education.
It should be noted that the Presidential Scholarship is run and managed by the U.S. Department of Education. It is a selective and highly prestigious scheme for all high school students in the United States of America.
Benefits of the U.S. Presidential Scholarship
The U.S. Presidential Scholarship is completely different from the traditional college grant. And this is because this program doesn’t offer funds to help with higher education. However, there are several other amazing and exclusive benefits to enjoy. Here are the benefits you’ll enjoy:
- Students chosen as Presidential Scholars will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., as well as a medal presented by the White House at the special event.
- Access to renowned national and international individuals such as government leaders, educators, authors, singers, scientists, and others.
- Address issues that affect both America and the world at large with other students.
- Form bonds with like-minded classmates and share ideas with them.
- Attend concerts, receptions, and ceremonies conducted in their honor, as well as visits to museums and landmarks in Washington, D.C.
You can enjoy the above-listed benefits once you are qualified for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
U.S. Presidential Scholarship Eligibility and Requirements
Just like the traditional grant, there are also requirements needed to apply for the United States Presidential Scholarship. In this part of the article, we will be listing some of the requirements needed to apply for this scholarship. Check out the write-up below.
- You must be a legal and permanent U.S. resident.
- Or you must be a citizen of the United States.
- Enrolled in Private or Public High Schools
- A good score on either your SAT or the ACT Assessment of the American College Testing Program.
If you meet the above-listed requirements, you are eligible for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program. Now, you can check out the next outline for steps and guidelines on how to apply for the program.
How to Apply for a Presidential Scholarship
Unfortunately, the only way to apply for the US Presidential Scholarship is to be invited. During the year of their high school graduation, the organizers of the program invite students to apply based on their SAT or ACT exam scores. Or through a nomination from a Chief State School Officer known as the CSS.
It is worthy to note that the CSSO is the individual who heads each state education agency or state Department of Education. Also, you can access this scholarship through a nomination from one of the U.S. Presidential Scholarship Partners or organizations.
As previously stated, candidates must be U.S. citizens or legal permanent U.S. residents to be eligible for the program. Every January, students who meet all requirements will get an automatic program notice as well as a unique nomination ID.
Students who were not citizens or legal permanent residents of the United States on the day they took the SAT or ACT exam will become citizens of the United States. You can visit the official website of the United States Presidential Scholars Platform for more information about the program.