# Presidential Scholar in the Arts

20 students selected annually via YoungArts. One of highest honors for young artists.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | U.S. Department of Education |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 2027-01-01 |
| Eligibility | Grade 12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Washington, DC |
| Apply | https://www2.ed.gov/programs/psp/ |

## About this program

The **Presidential Scholar in the Arts** designation, administered by the **U.S. Department of Education**, is one of the nation’s highest honors for high school artists. Each year, up to 20 students are selected through the **YoungArts** competition process and recognized for exceptional achievement in disciplines such as visual arts, music, dance, theater, writing, and other creative fields. This recognition focuses on artistic merit, technical skill, and commitment to developing a serious artistic practice.

Students who are deeply engaged in their art form, regularly create or perform at an advanced level, and are considering college or conservatory study in the arts are strong candidates to pursue the YoungArts pathway that can lead to this honor. Being named a Presidential Scholar in the Arts can strengthen a college application by:

- Demonstrating achievement at a nationally recognized level  
- Signaling dedication, discipline, and creative excellence  
- Providing a notable distinction that admissions offices understand and value  

Students interested in this distinction should first explore the **YoungArts** application process, as selection for Presidential Scholar in the Arts is made from among top YoungArts winners. This program is especially suited to students who see their art as a central focus of their academic and professional future.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Presidential Scholar in the Arts cost?

Presidential Scholar in the Arts 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 Presidential Scholar in the Arts?

The application deadline is January 1, 2027. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for Presidential Scholar in the Arts?

Presidential Scholar in the Arts is open to high school seniors. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Presidential Scholar in the Arts online or in person?

Presidential Scholar in the Arts is an in-person program based in Washington, DC.

### How do I apply to Presidential Scholar in the Arts?

Apply directly through U.S. Department of Education's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

---

Last updated: 2026-07-04.
Canonical page: https://extracurricularhub.com/extracurriculars/presidential-scholar-in-the-arts
Source: ExtracurricularHub (https://extracurricularhub.com) — a free directory of 1,723 verified extracurricular programs for high school students. Cite the canonical page above; always confirm binding details on the program's official site.