The Congressional Award: A Complete Guide

If you’re a motivated student looking for a meaningful way to combine leadership, community service, and personal growth, The Congressional Award is one of the most prestigious programs you can join. Created by the U.S. Congress, this national youth initiative rewards dedication, initiative, and achievement rather than grades or test scores.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about The Congressional Award—from what it is and how to apply, to program requirements, deadlines, and tips for success.

• What Is the Congressional Award?
• Congressional Award Project Initiatives and Activities
• Congressional Award Application Deadline
• Congressional Award Requirements
• How to Apply for the Congressional Award
• Why Apply for the Congressional Award?
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is the Congressional Award?

Founded in 1979 through Public Law 96–114, the Congressional Award is the United States Congress’ official award for young Americans. It’s a non-partisan, voluntary, and non-competitive program that recognizes students aged 14 to 24 who set and achieve challenging goals in four program areas:

1. Voluntary Public Service
2. Personal Development
3. Physical Fitness
4. Expedition or Exploration

Unlike traditional awards, the Congressional Award celebrates effort and growth, not prior accomplishments. Participants work at their own pace, setting personal goals and tracking progress through Congressional Award Submittable, the official online platform for applications and record books.

Award levels include Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates and Medals—each representing hours and months of dedication. Gold Medalists are honored annually at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., presented by Members of Congress.

Congressional Award Project Initiatives and Activities

The Congressional Award Foundation offers a wide range of exciting project opportunities that let students turn their goals into meaningful experiences. These programs help participants earn hours toward their Award while exploring topics that matter most to today’s youth — from STEM and entrepreneurship to mental health, community service, and leadership.

Here are some of the featured programs and activities you can join:

• The Congressional Award Esports and Wellness. Created in partnership with the American Heart Association and the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), this program explores how gaming and healthy living can go hand in hand. It encourages students to find balance, stay active, and use esports as a way to build teamwork and wellness.

• The Congressional Award STEM Stars. Developed with Ferring Pharmaceuticals, STEM Stars inspires curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and math. Participants take part in engaging activities that show how STEM plays a key role in solving real-world challenges and shaping innovation.

• The Congressional Award Cupid Crew. This is a heartwarming Valentine’s Day campaign where students create and deliver cards to seniors in their community. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to spread kindness and connect across generations.

• The Congressional Award Café Radio Podcast. In collaboration with the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, this podcast spotlights inspiring conversations with Award alumni and professionals. Students can tune in to hear stories about careers, leadership, and personal growth straight from those who’ve walked the path.

• The Congressional Award Mental Health Hub. A supportive space designed to help teens strengthen their emotional well-being and resilience. It offers resources, tools, and stories to help students prioritize their mental health while pursuing their goals.

• The Congressional Award Career Center. This hub provides helpful tools for career planning, including internship listings, resume tips, and advice from professionals. It’s a great way for students to prepare for the future and build confidence in their next steps.

• The Congressional Award Youth Personal Finance and Entrepreneurship Program. Built in partnership with Intuit, this program teaches students about money management, budgeting, and entrepreneurship. Participants learn how to think creatively and make smart financial decisions that support their long-term goals.

• The Congressional Award Students Connecting with Seniors Toolkit. In partnership with Charter Communications, this project encourages students to form meaningful relationships with seniors through conversation and service. It’s an opportunity to bridge generations and make a difference through empathy and connection.

• The Congressional Award Student-Athletes Toolkit. Partnering with the NCAA, this campaign highlights athlete mental health and well-being. It features conversations with Members of Congress and sports leaders about finding balance and purpose beyond the game.

• The Congressional Award & Military Youth. Created in collaboration with Boeing, this initiative supports military-connected youth, helping them build leadership skills, resilience, and community through the Congressional Award framework.

• The Congressional Award & Scouts BSA + GSUSA. Partnering with Girl Scouts of the USA, this program helps Scouts connect their service and leadership experiences with the Congressional Award, encouraging them to make an even greater impact in their communities.

These programs and campaigns offer countless ways to earn your Congressional Award while making a difference—whether you’re volunteering, exploring new interests, or building skills that will stay with you for life.

Beyond individual projects, the Congressional Award Foundation also leads several youth-focused campaigns that give students a chance to grow as leaders, athletes, and changemakers—all while working toward their Award.

Congressional Award Application Deadline

One of the best parts about the Congressional Award program is its flexibility—you can start working toward your goals and submit your record book at your own pace. There are no strict deadlines for registration or submission, which means students can focus on progress rather than pressure.

However, to be eligible for the annual Gold Medal Ceremony in Washington, D.C., participants must submit their completed record book and required materials by February 1 of the award year. So, if you’re applying for the Gold Medal, start finalizing your record book by early January to give yourself time for revisions before the March deadline.

If your record book requires any edits or clarifications, revisions must be submitted by March 15. This final date ensures all documentation is processed before the annual celebration.

Then, each summer, typically in June or July, Gold Medalists are invited to Washington, D.C., for an official ceremony hosted by the U.S. Congress. The event celebrates the highest level of achievement within the program and brings together outstanding young leaders from across the country. For 2025, the event was held from June 11 to 13.

Congressional Award Requirements

Before getting started, here’s what you need to know about eligibility, paperwork, and costs for the Congressional Award program:

Eligibility

To qualify for the program, participants must meet these simple requirements:

• Age requirement. Open to U.S. residents aged 14 to 24.
• Registration age. You can register as early as 13½, but activities only count after your registration date.
• Completion deadline. All goals and activities must be finished before your 24th birthday.
• Inclusive access. Open to all students—there are no GPA minimums or citizenship restrictions.

Required documents

To successfully complete your Congressional Award application, you’ll need:

• Registration form and fee. A simple online registration form and a one-time $25 registration fee.
• Advisor approval. Your Advisor must review and approve your goals before you begin.
• Validators. Each goal area requires a Validator, who is someone who can confirm you completed your activities.
• Completed Record Book. Submit your Record Book digitally through Congressional Award Submittable once your goals are met.

Program costs

The Congressional Award program is designed to be affordable and accessible:

• Registration fee. A one-time $25 fee at registration.
• No additional costs. There are no extra participation or submission fees throughout the program.
• Travel for gold medalists. Gold Medal recipients cover travel costs to Washington, D.C. for the national ceremony, though local recognition events are typically free.

How to Apply for the Congressional Award

Applying for the Congressional Award is simple, flexible, and entirely student-driven. You’ll move through each step at your own pace, building toward your Bronze, Silver, or Gold Medal goals. Here are the steps, detailed below and also available in their Program Book:

Step 1: Register online.

Start by registering on the official Congressional Award website and paying the one-time $25 registration fee.

Then, create your Submittable account—this is where you’ll upload your Record Book, request Advisor and Validator approvals, and track your progress online.

Use the same email address for both your registration and Submittable accounts to avoid verification delays or lost progress.

Step 2: Set your goals.

Once registered, it’s time to design your journey! Work with your Advisor to create SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) in the four required program areas.

You can include up to:

• 4 Voluntary Public Service goals
• 2 Personal Development goals
• 2 Physical Fitness goals
• 1 Expedition or Exploration goal

Each goal should reflect something meaningful to you—whether that’s improving your community, learning a new skill, or pushing your personal limits.

Step 3: Work toward your goals.

Begin your activities after your registration date and record your progress. You can use the optional Workbook to draft goals, track hours, and log milestones before transferring everything into Submittable.

Each activity must be confirmed by a Validator (like a coach, teacher, or supervisor) who can verify your participation in that goal area.

Step 4: Submit via Submittable.

When you’ve completed all your required hours and months of activity, submit your Record Book through Congressional Award Submittable for review.

If your Program Manager requests updates or clarifications, you’ll receive a revision notice via email. Simply make the corrections and resubmit—no need to start over.

Step 5: Receive your award.

After your submission is approved, you’ll officially earn your Congressional Award Certificate or Medal.

• Bronze and Silver Medals. Presented locally by your Member of Congress or congressional office.
• Gold Medal. Awarded at the prestigious Gold Medal Ceremony in Washington, D.C., hosted annually by the United States Congress.

You can immediately start setting new goals for the next level once your current one is approved. Your hours and experiences carry forward as you climb from Bronze to Silver to Gold!

Why Apply for the Congressional Award?

Earning the Congressional Award is certainly an impressive achievement. But more than that, it’s a journey of growth, service, and self-discovery. Whether you’re aiming to strengthen your college applications or explore new passions, this program offers opportunities that make a lasting impact.

1. Build leadership and service experience.

Through community projects, fitness challenges, and exploration goals, participants develop leadership, responsibility, and initiative—skills that colleges and employers deeply value. You’ll learn how to set goals, lead with purpose, and make a tangible difference in your community while earning hours that count toward your Award.

2. Strengthen your college applications.

Is the Congressional Award good for college? Absolutely. Admissions officers recognize the Congressional Award as a sign of perseverance, long-term commitment, and civic engagement. It demonstrates your ability to balance academics with personal growth and community involvement, which are qualities that top universities love to see.

3. Gain real-world skills.

Every part of the program teaches something useful for life beyond high school. From financial literacy and personal wellness to time management, teamwork, and problem-solving, you’ll develop the kind of practical and soft skills that set you apart in both college and career settings.

4. Earn recognition from the U.S. Congress.

The Congressional Award is the only honor given directly by the United States Congress to youth civilians, making it a rare and meaningful distinction. Gold Medalists are invited to Washington, D.C. for an official ceremony, where they’re recognized by Members of Congress for their dedication and achievements.

5. Explore new interests.

The program’s four goal areas (Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration) encourage you to try new things and step outside your comfort zone.

You might master a new sport, volunteer for a cause you care about, learn a language, or plan your own adventure—all while growing personally and earning recognition for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Congressional Award good for college?

Yes. It’s the official youth award of the U.S. Congress, recognizing initiative, service, and achievement. Colleges value it for showing leadership, goal-setting, and long-term dedication.

2. How do you get the Congressional Award?

Register online, pay the $25 fee, and set goals in four areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. Track progress and submit your Record Book through Congressional Award Submittable.

3. Is the Congressional Award prestigious?

Absolutely. It’s the highest civilian honor that Congress gives to youth, celebrating leadership, community service, and perseverance.

4. Is the Congressional Award worth it?

Yes, it helps students build real-world skills, gain national recognition, and strengthen college and scholarship applications through sustained service and self-improvement.

5. When is the Congressional Award due?

Applications are accepted year-round, but Gold Medal submissions are due by February 1 for that year’s ceremony. Revisions close March 15. Bronze and Silver can be submitted anytime.

Takeaways

• The Congressional Award Program honors youth for service, leadership, and exploration. Participants progress at their own pace, setting personalized SMART goals in four key areas.
• The award is non-competitive and accessible to all students aged 14 to 24.
• Completing the program enhances college applications by showing initiative, commitment, and community impact.
• If you’re ready to begin, start your Congressional Award journey today—and consider exploring extracurricular planning to help you align your goals, service, and leadership experiences for maximum impact.