15 Awards That High School Students Could Try For

High school is an environment that, ideally, favors exploration, growth, and discovery. However, most high schools are not equipped to validate truly exceptional work by the most advanced students. Academic awards highlight these outstanding individuals. They reward rigorous, high-quality work with national or international recognition and visibility, allowing the top high schoolers in each field to differentiate themselves from the rest. Students who are ready to go above and beyond can use these awards to demonstrate academic initiative, discipline, and excellence when applying to colleges. In addition to the prestigious recognition itself, many awards come with generous college scholarships. Finally, the process of completing a highly focused, award-worthy project and then presenting your work to a jury of experts can be highly rewarding. Successfully completing this process builds technical and soft skills that will remain valuable throughout your university-level studies, launching you into a dynamic and successful professional career. For driven students, these awards are not just extracurricular activities—they’re strategic, high-ROI investments of time and effort that fit into a carefully planned academic trajectory and skill-building strategies, helping to validate ambition and signal sustained excellence to college admissions committees.

Top 12 Awards for High School Students

1. Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)

For aspiring scientists, the Intel ISEF is a prestigious platform that brings together the brightest young minds from around the world. This competition celebrates scientific innovation and provides high school students with the opportunity to present their groundbreaking research projects. Winners are bestowed with a suite of prestigious accolades and opportunities in recognition of their outstanding contributions to scientific research. These accolades often include substantial cash awards, with the top prizes reflecting the remarkable achievements across various categories. 

Additionally, winners may be recipients of scholarships to support their educational pursuits, providing financial assistance for their academic journey. Beyond monetary rewards, winners partake in the Intel ISEF experience, gaining the privilege to showcase their projects, connect with esteemed scientists, Nobel laureates, and industry professionals, thus fostering valuable networking opportunities. 

Qualifying for and earning recognition at ISEF requires, above all, rigorous scientific practices in your chosen category. It also demands originality, as well as consistency and perseverance as you climb through local, regional, and state level fairs. For competitive, achievement-oriented students, these STEM competitions also offer quantifiable outcomes, such as placing among the top 1% of participants, earning national or international visibility, and adding concrete distinctions to college transcripts and resumes that clearly demonstrate technical excellence.

2. National Merit Scholarship Program

The National Merit Scholarship Program recognizes and rewards academically talented students. To qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program, students embark on a journey that commences with taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) during their junior year of high school. This test evaluates critical reading, mathematics, and writing skills, generating a Selection Index score. 

Eligibility for recognition and scholarship consideration hinges on achieving a high Selection Index score, surpassing a specific cutoff determined by each state. Students who meet or exceed this threshold become eligible for recognition as Commended Students or Semifinalists. While Commended Students are acknowledged for their exceptional performance, Semifinalists advance to the subsequent stage of the competition. This multi-step process not only identifies top-performing students but also opens doors to opportunities for prestigious recognition and scholarship awards through the National Merit Scholarship Program.

Earning the top levels of recognition from the National Merit Scholarship competition requires scoring in the top 1% on the PSAT/NMSQT. In addition, finalists must continue to demonstrate academic excellence into their senior year of high school.

3. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

For the creatively inclined, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards offer a platform to showcase your artistic talents and literary prowess. Categories include visual arts, poetry, short stories, and more. Winning or even being recognized at the national level not only validates your artistic abilities but can also lead to scholarship opportunities and exposure within the arts community.

Earning recognition from the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards demands creativity as well as technical mastery in your chosen medium.

4. DECA Emerging Leader Honor Award

The DECA Emerging Leader Honor Award recognizes students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and commitment to DECA, an international association that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. To be eligible for this esteemed honor, students must be active DECA members who have successfully completed at least one semester of coursework in marketing, business, finance, hospitality, or management. 

Additionally, candidates must have participated in DECA activities at the local, regional, or international level, showcasing their dedication to the organization. The award seeks to honor students who have not only excelled academically but have also actively contributed to the DECA community through their leadership roles, participation in conferences, and engagement in projects that align with DECA's mission. Meeting these criteria demonstrates a student's commitment to personal and professional development within the context of DECA, positioning them as emerging leaders within the organization.

In summary, qualifying for this award requires a combination of academic accomplishment, community involvement, leadership, and activity as a DECA member.

5. Congressional Award

The Congressional Award is a program for young Americans that encourages goal-setting and personal development. By engaging in community service, physical fitness, personal development, and expedition/exploration activities, high school students can earn bronze, silver, and gold medals. The Congressional Award not only recognizes your achievements but also emphasizes the importance of community service and personal growth.

Eligible recipients must be between the ages of 13.5 and 23, and they engage in goal-setting activities that align with their personal interests and passions. By completing a set number of hours and achieving specific goals in each program area, participants not only receive recognition for their individual accomplishments but also contribute meaningfully to their communities. 

This award recognizes students who set goals for themselves and complete those goals. Commitment, therefore, is the most important skill for students wishing to earn recognition through the Congressional Award Program.

6. National Speech & Debate Association Honor Society

For eloquent and persuasive speakers, the National Speech & Debate Association Honor Society offers recognition for excellence in debate and public speaking. Earning membership in this prestigious society showcases your communication skills, critical thinking, and ability to articulate complex ideas—a valuable asset in various academic and professional pursuits.

To qualify, students must earn a requisite number of points through their participation in competitive speech and debate events. The accumulation of points is based on achievements and recognitions garnered at tournaments, showcasing the student's proficiency in public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking. 

Students with strong oral communication skills will excel in these tournaments.

7. Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Awards

FBLA offers a range of awards recognizing excellence in various business-related competitions. Whether it's business ethics, financial literacy, or entrepreneurship, participating in FBLA competitions allows high school students to demonstrate their business acumen and problem-solving skills.

Eligibility for FBLA awards is typically based on active membership in an FBLA chapter, participation in chapter and competitive events, and demonstrated proficiency in business-related skills. Students earn eligibility through their engagement in FBLA conferences, competitions, and community service initiatives. These awards serve as a recognition of students' commitment to business education, leadership development, and the cultivation of essential skills for future success in the business world.

The highest level of recognition is called the Capstone Award. This achievement requires students to use their business skills to design and complete a project that solves a real-world problem.

8. National History Day

For history enthusiasts, National History Day offers a platform to delve into historical research and present findings in creative ways. The competition encourages students to explore historical topics in-depth, fostering critical thinking and research skills. 

Earning recognition at National History Day requires students to demonstrate their skills in historical research and in presentation (presentations can take the form of a documentary, an exhibit, a performance, a paper, or a website).

9. International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)**

The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is a prestigious competition for high school students under the age of 20. Eligibility is typically determined by national qualification processes, where students compete in local or national mathematical contests to earn the chance to represent their country. Participants should demonstrate strong mathematical aptitude and problem-solving skills. Specific eligibility details may vary by country, and interested students are advised to check with their national mathematical organizations for accurate information.

The IMO rewards students whose mathematical skills prove to be the strongest and the sharpest during testing.

10. Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship

The Coca-Cola Scholars Program Scholarship recognizes high-achieving high school seniors for their leadership, community service, academic excellence, and dedication to making a meaningful difference in their schools and communities. Since its inception, the program has supported over 6,750 scholars with $81 million in educational assistance, awarding 150 students annually with a $20,000 scholarship from its 35th class in 2023. This scholarship is not just about the financial reward; it's about joining a community of like-minded individuals committed to making a positive impact in the world.

This program rewards students who demonstrate exceptional leadership skills and who are committed to serving their schools and communities.

11. YoungArts Awards

The YoungArts Awards, facilitated by the National YoungArts Foundation, is a distinguished program designed to recognize and uplift emerging artists aged 15 to 18 in various disciplines such as visual arts, writing, design, theater, dance, music, cinematic arts, and photography. Through a rigorous application process, young artists submit portfolios or performances to be evaluated by experts in their respective fields, with recognition levels including Finalist, Honorable Mention, and Merit. 

Finalists are invited to participate in YoungArts Week, an immersive experience in Miami that features masterclasses, workshops, and performances, fostering artistic growth and networking. Beyond the week-long event, participants become part of a supportive alumni network, gaining access to ongoing opportunities, mentorship, and career development programs. 

The YoungArts Awards not only celebrates the diverse talents of young artists but also provides a transformative platform that propels their artistic journeys and connects them to a dynamic community of peers and mentors.

Students who are interested in participating in a YoungArts competition must be creative and technically masterful in their medium or with their instrument.

12. FIRST Robotics Competition

The FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Competition stands as a global beacon for inspiring high school students to dive into the exciting intersection of sports, science, and technology. Guided by mentors from various industries, these teams engage in a dynamic, team-based challenge centered around a unique game theme unveiled each year. The competitive spirit is not only about robot performance but also emphasizes core values like "Gracious Professionalism," fostering a culture of respect, integrity, and collaboration.

The top-performing teams progress to national and international championships, transforming their school-based projects into thrilling real-world competitions. Beyond the technical aspects, FIRST places a strong emphasis on STEM education and community outreach, encouraging students to share their passion for science and technology with their communities. The program not only equips students with valuable technical skills but also instills in them a sense of leadership, innovation, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Succeeding in FIRST Robotics requires students to have strong teamwork, problem-solving, and time management skills, as well as to have significant experience with engineering and technology.

Why Apply for Awards?

Highly motivated and accomplished high schoolers should strongly consider applying for national and international recognition to visibly differentiate themselves during the college admissions process. Prestigious awards, especially when combined with a research mentorship program, clearly demonstrate the academic passion and capacity for excellence that college application readers are looking for. Programs like Polygence can connect you with expert research mentors to complement and help showcase your individual accomplishments. Additionally, many awards come in the form of college scholarships which can help finance your future studies. Finally, working towards competitive awards helps students develop important skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and communication. Both the soft skills and the technical abilities you build and strengthen during competition preparation will remain valuable as you turn your sights towards continued studies at the university level and to an exciting professional career.

Final Thoughts

Participating in awards and competitions during high school is not just about winning accolades; it's about personal growth, exploration, and honing valuable skills. Whether you're interested in science, arts, business, or community service, there's an award out there waiting for you. The journey of striving for these awards not only adds to your high school experience but also sets the stage for a future filled with passion, purpose, and achievement. So, go ahead—embrace the challenge and make your mark!

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