A Guide to the Nation’s Highest Honor for Young Creators

For high school seniors with extraordinary artistic talent, the U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts program represents the pinnacle of recognition—a distinction that celebrates creativity, academic excellence, and leadership. Established in 1964, this prestigious award has honored luminaries like violinist Joshua Bell and actress Viola Davis, cementing their paths to global influence. But what does it take to join this elite group? How can aspiring artists and writers stand out in a fiercely competitive field?

In this deep dive, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about the Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts: eligibility criteria, nomination processes, selection secrets, and the transformative benefits of earning this accolade. Let’s unlock your potential to shine on a national stage.

What Is the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program?

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school seniors, recognizing excellence in academics, the arts, and career/technical fields. Administered by the U.S. Department of Education and the National YoungArts Foundation, the Arts component specifically rewards students who demonstrate “exceptional talent” in:

• Visual Arts: Painting, sculpture, photography, digital media.
• Literary Arts: Poetry, fiction, creative nonfiction.
• Performing Arts: Music, dance, theater, film.

Only 20 students are named Presidential Scholars in the Arts annually, joining 161 academic and career/tech honorees. Recipients receive a medallion, attend an all-expenses-paid recognition ceremony in Washington, D.C., and gain lifelong access to a network of leaders.

Why Aim for the Presidential Scholar Title? Benefits Beyond the Medal

Earning this honor isn’t just about prestige—it’s a springboard to unparalleled opportunities:

1. National Recognition

• Scholars are celebrated in a White House-sponsored ceremony and featured in national media.
• The award is a golden ticket for college applications, résumés, and grant proposals.

2. Exclusive Networking

• Connect with past scholars, policymakers, and cultural icons during D.C. events.
• Join the Presidential Scholars alumni network, a community of leaders across industries.

3. Financial and Academic Perks

• While the program doesn’t offer direct scholarships, many colleges provide merit aid to awardees.
• Access to internships, masterclasses, and YoungArts’ professional development programs.

4. A Platform for Impact

• Showcase your work to national audiences through exhibitions, readings, or performances.
• Advocate for arts education and policy alongside government leaders.

How to Be Nominated: Eligibility & Pathways

The selection process is rigorous, but understanding the roadmap can boost your chances:

Eligibility Requirements

• Be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident graduating high school in the award year.
• Demonstrate “exceptional talent” in one of the arts disciplines.

Nomination Pathways

1. YoungArts Competition:
   • All Presidential Scholars in the Arts must first win a National YoungArts Competition award (Gold, Silver, or Honorable Mention).
   • Apply to YoungArts by submitting a portfolio or audition tape in your discipline (deadline: October 15 annually).
2. Alternate Route:
   • Students recognized by the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards’ National Medalists or other Department of Education-approved programs may also qualify.

Key Deadlines

• YoungArts Application: October 15, 2024 (for 2025 awards).
• Presidential Scholars Notification: April–May 2025.

The Selection Process: What Judges Look For

From thousands of applicants, 60 arts semifinalists are chosen, then narrowed to 20 finalists. Here’s how the evaluation unfolds:

Stage 1: YoungArts Excellence

• Your YoungArts submission is scored blindly by discipline-specific panels (e.g., Pulitzer Prize-winning writers judge literature entries).
• Criteria: Originality, technical skill, and potential for growth.

Stage 2: Presidential Scholars Review

• A White House Commission evaluates semifinalists’ academic records, essays, and community impact.
• Leadership, character, and commitment to the arts weigh heavily.

Stage 3: Final Selection

• The Commission selects 20 scholars based on holistic excellence.

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

1. Perfect Your Portfolio

• Visual Artists: Include 5–10 high-resolution pieces showing range (e.g., mixed media, digital).
• Writers: Submit polished, unpublished works (3–5 poems or 2 short stories).
• Performers: Highlight technical mastery and emotional depth in 5–10 minute audition tapes.

2. Showcase Leadership

• Detail roles in arts advocacy, community projects, or mentorship programs.
• Example: Founded a student poetry slam club? Organized a mural project for social justice? Highlight it!

3. Excel Academically

• While artistic talent is paramount, a strong GPA (3.5+) and SAT/ACT scores (if submitted) bolster your case.

4. Secure Stellar Recommendations

• Choose mentors who can attest to your artistic rigor and character (e.g., art teachers, directors).

5. Craft a Compelling Essay

• The application includes short responses on your artistic philosophy and goals. Be authentic and visionary.

Success Stories: Alumni Who Changed the Game

• Joshua Bell: Presidential Scholar in Music (1985) → Grammy-winning violinist.
• Viola Davis: YoungArts Theater Honoree (1983) → Academy Award-winning actress.
• Tarell Alvin McCraney: YoungArts Winner (1999) → Oscar-winning screenwriter (Moonlight).

FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Q: Do I need perfect grades to qualify?
A: No—artistic excellence is the priority. However, scholars typically have strong academic records.

Q: Can I apply in multiple arts disciplines?
A: Yes, but you must submit separate portfolios/auditions for each.

Q: Is there an interview?
A: No, but semifinalists may need to provide additional documentation.

Q: What if I don’t win YoungArts?
A: Reapply next year! Many past scholars competed multiple times.

Your Roadmap to Becoming a Presidential Scholar

1. Start Early: Build your portfolio over years, not months.
2. Enter YoungArts: Meet the October deadline.
3. Highlight Impact: Document leadership in arts advocacy.
4. Apply to Other Programs: Boost credibility with Scholastic Awards or NAfME honors.

The Journey Matters More Than the Destination

Even if you don’t snag the Presidential Scholar title, the process hones your craft, expands your network, and clarifies your artistic voice. As violinist and scholar Joshua Bell once said, “Recognition is wonderful, but the real reward is the journey of creation.”