U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts, administered by the U.S. Department of Education, is one of the highest national honors a high school student in the arts can receive. Each year, only about 20 outstanding young artists are selected through the YoungArts competition to be named U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts. This elite arts program recognizes exceptional talent in creative arts, including visual arts, performing arts, music, and theater, and honors students at a prestigious national recognition ceremony.

Through this program, students gain access to unique learning and networking experiences. Honorees typically participate in high-level arts activities, performances, and presentations that push their skills to a professional standard. They connect with nationally recognized artists, educators, and fellow high-achieving peers, building a powerful creative network early in their careers. Whether you specialize in painting, sculpture, dance, voice, instrumental music, film, design, or theater, this program highlights your work at a national level and exposes you to new artistic perspectives and feedback.

Key benefits for high school students (usually top 11th–12th graders) include:

• National recognition that stands out on college applications and scholarship forms
• Strong portfolio and résumé enhancement for competitive arts schools and conservatories
• Increased confidence, artistic maturity, and real-world insight into arts careers

Colleges and universities understand how rigorous the path to becoming a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts is, particularly the YoungArts-based selection process. Being chosen signals not just talent, but dedication, discipline, and excellence in your field.

Highly motivated high school artists who are serious about pursuing visual arts, performing arts, music, or theater at the next level should consider this program a top goal. If you are a 9th–12th grader already building a strong portfolio or performance record, this is a clear, aspirational target. The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts stands out because it combines national recognition from the U.S. President with meaningful artistic growth, making it one of the most prestigious pathways for young American artists.

How much does U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts cost?

We have not verified what U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts costs. Our catalog holds no confirmed price for it, and an unpriced entry means exactly that — unpriced, not free. Check the official site before assuming either way.

Who is eligible for U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts?

U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts is open to high school seniors. Its official page puts it as “graduating high school seniors”. Some programs add requirements a grade range cannot capture — GPA, coursework, essays, recommendations — so read the full criteria there.

Is U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts online or in person?

U.S. Presidential Scholars Program in the Arts is a hybrid program with both online and in-person components (in-person portions in Washington, DC).

How do I apply to U.S. Presidential Scholars Program 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.