2021-22 Scholarship opportunities
The VFW and the VFW Auxiliary support the expanding and growing of minds young and old through annual scholarship programs. Scholarships are open to students enrolled in public, private, parochial or a home study program in the U.S. Applicants must be a California resident and a U.S. citizen or U.S. national but do not have to be related to a VFW or VFW Auxiliary member to participate. Submissions must be made to a local VFW Post in order to be eligible for district, department or national awards. Deadlines, rules and the required application vary for each contest, please see the individual links provided for each contest.
Contact us at vfwauxiliary2814@gmail.com for more information on any of this year's programs.
Contact us at vfwauxiliary2814@gmail.com for more information on any of this year's programs.
Patriot's Pen Essay
Young minds are challenged to examine our Nation's history along with their own experiences in modern society. In 300-400 words, their essay should express their views based on the theme of "My Pledge to Our Veterans." Open to students in grades 6-8 Deadline to submit is October 31, 2022 Scholarship Amount: National Award of up to $5,000 For full rules and required application, click here. |
Voice of Democracy Audio-Essay Contest
Democracy-loving high school students are invited to express themselves in a short democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. In three to five minutes, students are asked to answer this year's essay question of "Why is the Veteran Important?" Open to students in grades 9-12 Deadline to submit is October 31, 2022 Scholarship Amount: National Award of up to $30,000 For full rules and required application, click here. |
Young American Creative Patriotic Art Contest
Young artists are invited to express their patriotism through an original 2-D or 3-D artistic creation on paper or canvas. Digital art, photography and jewelry are not accepted. Open to students in grades 9-12 Deadline to submit is March 31 (annually) Scholarship Amount: Department Award $500 and up to $15,000 for National For full rules and required application, click here. |
Illustrating America
Elementary and middle school students are invited to express their patriotism in an original 2-D art on paper or canvas. Coloring sheets, digital art and photography are not accepted. Open to students grades 1-8 Deadline to submit is March 31 (annually) Scholarship Amount: National awards of up to a $100 gift card per division with department awards also available. For full rules and required application, click here. |

Get Excited for the Red, White and Blue
Individual singing contest for patriotic youth. Show your version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and showcase your voice and talent.
Open to students grades K-12
Deadline to submit is March 31 (annually)
Entries are judged on vocal ability, mastery of lyrics, originality or interpretation and entertainment value
For full rules and required application, click here.
Individual singing contest for patriotic youth. Show your version of "The Star-Spangled Banner" and showcase your voice and talent.
Open to students grades K-12
Deadline to submit is March 31 (annually)
Entries are judged on vocal ability, mastery of lyrics, originality or interpretation and entertainment value
For full rules and required application, click here.
Continuing Education Scholarship (VFW Auxiliary only)
Auxiliary members and their immediate family members who are working to further their education with a college degree or vocational/technical school can share their goals and how this scholarship will help them attain them. Open to Auxiliary member, spouse or children age 18 and older Deadline to submit is February 15, 2023 Scholarship Amount: $1,000 For full rules and required application, click here. |