Find and Apply for Public Speaking Scholarships

You can find and apply for public speaking scholarships through various organizations and colleges, each with specific application requirements. This article will help you navigate the process, offering details on different scholarship providers and their unique application steps. You'll learn where to look and what materials you need to prepare.

One notable opportunity is the Silver Dollar Financial Public Speaking Scholarship, which is open to those currently enrolled in college or applying to college, with an interest in public speaking. To apply, you must write a persuasive speech on a topic where you are an expert. You also need to record a short video presenting your speech.

Several oratorical contests also provide public speaking scholarships. For instance, you can register for the American Legion Oratorical Contest by contacting your local American Legion post. The Veterans of Foreign Wars “Voice of Democracy” contest requires submitting a voice recording to your local VFW post in October. Additionally, the Optimist International oratorical scholarship competition requires contacting a local Optimist International club to get started.

You can also get started with the Sons of the American Revolution “Historical Oration Contest” by contacting your local SAR chapter. For most students, starting with well-known national contests or specific college departments offers the clearest path to finding public speaking scholarships. The National Speech and Debate Association lists colleges that offer speech and debate scholarships, and you should check with individual colleges directly for specific details on their programs.

Eligibility Requirements for Public Speaking Scholarships

Eligibility for public speaking scholarships varies significantly by program and organization. Generally, you might need to meet a minimum GPA, demonstrate financial need, or show a commitment to public speaking programs. Other common requirements include U.S. citizenship, leadership skills, community service experience, or plans to attend an accredited college program. For instance, some scholarships specifically target current college students with a strong interest in public speaking.

Requirements for High School Students

High school students seeking public speaking scholarships have various requirements to meet. Many opportunities involve specific oratorical contests:

• The American Legion Oratorical Contest requires a ten-minute memorized speech on the U.S. Constitution.
• For the Veterans of Foreign Wars “Voice of Democracy” contest, submit a three to five minute voice recording about democracy. You must also be a currently enrolled high school student within the United States or its territories.
• The Optimist International oratorical competition requires a 4-5 minute speech on optimism. Applicants must be under 18 and from the United States, Canada, or the Caribbean.
• The Sons of the American Revolution “Historical Oration Contest” involves a 5-6 minute memorized oration about the American Revolution.
• The Coast Guard Chapter Oratorical Program targets African American students in grades 9-12 from Maryland high schools.

Beyond contests, some scholarships look for other qualifications. You might need to have participated in speech and debate or mock trial. Graduating students may also need to show excellence in public speaking. Other requirements include plans to attend a four-year college after graduation. Some scholarships can also require a minimum GPA.

What Are Common Application Requirements?

Common application requirements for public speaking scholarships often include demonstrating leadership skills and having community service experience. Many scholarships also look for a minimum GPA and require you to be a U.S. citizen. You also need to plan to attend an accredited program and may need to submit a FAFSA®. For instance, applicants for the Silver Dollar Financial Public Speaking Scholarship must be enrolled in college or be a college applicant. This scholarship asks for a persuasive speech on a topic where you are an expert, accompanied by a short video presentation. Another example, the ModernBrain Speak Up Scholarship, requires a signed letter of financial need, a recorded video, and a letter of recommendation.

How Can I Improve My Chances of Winning a Scholarship?

To improve your chances of winning public speaking scholarships, focus on strategic applications and strong preparation. Increase your odds by applying for many scholarships, especially those with smaller award amounts or those requiring work, like an essay. Ensure you meet all scholarship guidelines and minimum requirements, then follow all application directions. If an essay is required, directly address the topic or prompt. Showcase your uniqueness, culture, traditions, and experiences, and highlight qualities such as leadership, service, and volunteer work. Stay organized, research thoroughly, and prepare well. College students should apply each year they are enrolled, and talking to successful past competitors can offer valuable insights. Also, improve your chances by keeping track of application deadlines.