# Veterans History Project

Students age 15+ can volunteer as interviewers for the Library of Congress, recording oral-history interviews with US military veterans that are permanently archived in the American Folklife Center.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Library of Congress American Folklife Center |
| Category | volunteer |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 10–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://www.loc.gov/programs/veterans-history-project/how-to-participate/ |

## About this program

# Veterans History Project

The Veterans History Project (VHP), created by Congress in 2000 as part of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, collects and preserves firsthand accounts of US military veterans so future generations can hear directly from those who served. Volunteers - explicitly including students age 15 or older - conduct recorded oral-history interviews with veterans in their families and communities and submit them, along with original photographs, letters, and other materials, for permanent archiving at the Library.

## What You'll Do

- Choose a veteran to interview - a relative, neighbor, or a participant found through veterans service organizations
- Prepare using VHP's field kit and best-practices guidance for oral history
- Record an unedited audio or video interview and gather any original photos, correspondence, or memoirs the veteran wishes to donate
- Complete the required forms and submit the collection to the Library of Congress

## Who Should Apply

Per the Library, 'Any individual or organization may participate, including... students age 15 or older' (Gold Star collection participants must be 18). It is a strong fit for students interested in history, journalism, or service who want a self-paced project with a permanent public result. Participation is year-round with no application or deadline.

## Outcomes

Your interview becomes part of a congressionally chartered national archive, citable by name in the Library's collections - a rare, concrete contribution for a high school volunteer - while you build real interviewing, recording, and archival documentation skills.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for Veterans History Project?

Veterans History Project is open to high school students in grades 10–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Veterans History Project online or in person?

Veterans History Project is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to Veterans History Project?

Apply directly through Library of Congress American Folklife Center's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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