The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students, was established in 1964 by Executive Order from the President to recognize and honor our nation’s most distinguished graduating high school seniors. In 1979, the program was extended to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional talent in visual, creative, and performing arts. In 2015, the program was again extended to recognize students who demonstrate ability and accomplishment in career and technical education (CTE) fields.
Each year, up to 161 students are named Presidential Scholars. Students who are finalists will receive an expense-paid trip to Washington, D. C. in June, where they will be presented with the U.S. Presidential Scholars medallion at a ceremony sponsored by the White House to commemorate their achievements. During their visit to Washington, scholars will have access to important national and international figures, including government officials, educators, authors, musicians, scientists, and other accomplished people. Scholars are provided opportunities to: wrestle with issues that concern America and the world; attend recitals, receptions, and ceremonies held in their honor; and visit the area’s museums and monuments.
Additional information about the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program can be found here.
Wyoming’s Selection Process
Each fall, the State of Wyoming nominates ten male and ten female students for the General nomination, and five students for the Career and Technical Education (CTE) nomination. Nominations must be made by the Wyoming school district and high school staff.
A qualified nominee is a high school senior who either exemplifies outstanding academic excellence (general nomination) or mastery of Career and Technical Education (CTE nomination). Nominees must graduate between January and August of 2025, and be U.S. citizens or permanent legal residents who attend public, parochial, or independent schools, as well as those who are home-schooled, are eligible.
The 2025 United States Presidential Scholars Nomination form will open August 19-November 28, 2024.
2025 Selection Timeline
- August 19, 2024 – U.S. Presidential Program Nomination form opens.
- November 22, 2024 – Wyoming nomination form closes.
- December 2024, State recommendations submitted to the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.
- January 2025 – Candidates receive letter of invitation from the U.S. Presidential Scholars Office to apply.
- February 2025 – Application deadline.
- April 2025 – Semifinalists announced.
- May 2025 – Presidential Scholars announced.
- June 2025 – Presidential Scholars Medallion Ceremony in Washington, D.C.
