American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest
Organization: The American Legion
Compiled and verified by: ExtracurricularHub Editorial Team — editorial policy
Last updated
What Is American Legion National High School?
American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest is a free scholarship run by The American Legion for high school students in grades 9–12. It takes place in person in National. The next deadline is expected around December 7, 2026, based on the last cycle.
American Legion National High School: Program Overview
The American Legion's Oratorical Contest challenges high school students to deliver speeches on the U.S. Constitution, awarding scholarships of $18,000–$25,000 at the national level. One of the oldest and most respected speech competitions for students.
About the American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest
The American Legion's National High School Oratorical Contest has been helping students develop leadership skills through public speaking since 1938. The contest requires participants to prepare and deliver speeches about the U.S. Constitution, earning scholarships at local, state, and national levels.
Scholarship Awards
- 1st Place National: $25,000 scholarship
- 2nd Place National: $22,500 scholarship
- 3rd Place National: $20,000 scholarship
- State competition contestants: $18,000–$19,000 scholarships
- Additional scholarships at local and district levels
How the Contest Works
The contest proceeds through multiple rounds:
- Post (local) competition — Sponsored by local American Legion posts
- District competition
- Department (state) competition
- National competition — Held in Indianapolis, Indiana
Eligibility Requirements
- U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted alien
- Currently enrolled in an accredited U.S. high school
- Under 20 years of age on the date of the national contest
- No previous participation in the national contest as a contestant
Speech Requirements
- Prepared Oration: 8–10 minute speech on the U.S. Constitution
- Assigned Topic Discourse: 3–5 minute speech on a constitutional topic assigned at contest time
How to Enter
There is no national online application. Students contact their local American Legion post to find out about local competitions. Visit legion.org/get-involved/youth-programs/oratorical-contest to find your nearest post.
American Legion National High School Key Facts: Cost, Deadline, and Eligibility
| Organizer | The American Legion |
|---|---|
| Category | General Extracurricular |
| Format | In-Person |
| Location | National |
| Cost | Free |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Application deadline | December 7, 2026 (estimated from the last cycle — the program hasn't announced this one yet) |
| Country | USA |
| Listing last updated | July 5, 2026 |
Verified: ExtracurricularHub checked this listing against the program's official site. We don't publish the date of that check — confirm the current cycle on the official site before you plan around it.
Frequently Asked Questions About American Legion National High School
How much does American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest cost?
American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.
What is the application deadline for American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest?
The application deadline is December 7, 2026. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.
Who is eligible for American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest?
American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.
Is American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest online or in person?
American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest is an in-person program based in National.
How do I apply to American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest?
Apply directly through The American Legion's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.
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How to Apply to American Legion National High School
Apply on the official program page: American Legion National High School Oratorical Contest — Apply
Visit the official program website: The American Legion