This page provides information specifically for the Optimist International Scholarships. Check below for more scholarships to apply for as a high school student, based on your grade.
For motivated students who demonstrate outstanding community service and leadership, Optimist International offers a variety of scholarship opportunities aimed at encouraging the next generation of civic-minded individuals. Scholarships range from $2,500 to $5,000 and are awarded to students through essay and speech contests organized by local Optimist Clubs. These contests not only provide financial support but also give students a platform to share their perspectives on important topics. In fact, many of the winners we talked with pointed out this second benefit to be especially crucial in advancing their goals.
The Optimist International Scholarship program consists of three primary contests: (1) the Optimist International Essay Contest, (2) the Optimist International Oratorical Contest, and (3) the Communication Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (CCDHH). Each contest emphasizes public speaking and writing skills, with themes designed to inspire reflection and creativity in young leaders.
Winners of local contests may advance to district-level competitions, where scholarships are awarded to the top performers. Some scholarships also qualify students to participate in Optimist International's world championship events, offering additional accolades and networking opportunities.
To qualify for these prestigious scholarships, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Age Requirement
Students must be under the age of 19 as of October 1 of the contest year and must not yet have graduated from high school or its equivalent.
Participation in Local Club Contests
Contestants must compete at their local Optimist Club level before advancing to district competitions. Contact your local Optimist Club for information about deadlines and contest rules.
Essay and Speech Topics
Each year, Optimist International provides a specific theme for its contests. For example, past themes have included topics like "How Optimism Can Change the World." Students should prepare essays or speeches that reflect original thinking and align with the given theme.
CCDHH Contest
For students who are deaf or hard of hearing, the CCDHH provides an opportunity to compete in an adapted format. Participants deliver presentations in sign language, demonstrating their ability to inspire and inform an audience.
Why Apply?
These scholarships are designed not only to assist with educational expenses but also to help students develop skills that are vital for leadership and success. Participants will:
-Strengthen public speaking and writing abilities.
-Build confidence through competition and interaction with peers.
-Gain recognition for community involvement and academic achievements.
How to Apply
1. Find a Local Club
Visit the Optimist International website to locate an Optimist Club in your area.
2. Obtain Application Materials
Clubs will provide details on contest themes, rules, and deadlines.
3. Submit Your Entry
Submit your essay, speech, or presentation according to the contest guidelines. Make sure all required materials are included, as incomplete applications may be disqualified.
4. Prepare for Advancement
Winners of local contests should be prepared to participate in district-level competitions, where larger scholarships are awarded.
Important Dates and Deadlines:
Deadlines vary by club and district. Local contests typically take place between January and March, with district-level competitions held shortly after. Be sure to confirm dates with your local club.
Email: programs@optimist.org
Website: https://www.optimist.org
Tel: 1-800-500-8130
The scholarships provided in the following pages are organized by grade level in high school; there is, thus, no longer any need to go through thousands of resources to find those applicable to you. Having been prepared with high school students in mind, highscholarships.com makes the task rather easy for you.
On this page, you will find numerous scholarships that are specifically for high school seniors. This is when you qualify the most number of scholarships! Do not wait longer!
SHOW ME ↓This page is dedicated to scholarships that are for high school juniors, of which there are plenty. Some of these can be applied for by high school seniors as well.
SHOW ME ↓Here, you can find scholarships for high school sophomores, although some of them are available also to high schoolers at other levels. Start early!
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