The Presidential 1776 Award
Learn from the past. Test your knowledge. Track your future.
The Ultimate Civics Showdown
From the U.S. Department of Education, led by Secretary Linda McMahon, the Presidential 1776 Award is a national student competition recognizing excellence in American founding history. High schoolers from every state competed in a first-round online Impossible Civics Test, with the top scorers advancing to five regional semifinals, and semifinalists competing in the national final in Washington, D.C.
Find out who wins!
8:00 PM ET
Watch the national final live as the top two finalists compete for the title on CBS.
Stream Anytime
Missed it live? Stream the showdown on Paramount+ starting July 1.
Are You Smarter than the Presidential 1776 Award Champion?
Take the Impossible Civics Test today and test your knowledge of the American Founding, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the great soldiers and battles of the American Revolutionary War.
From 1776 To Today...
The journey to independence was powered by people who believed in something bigger than themselves. By testing your knowledge in preparation for the America250 celebration and scholarship competition, you contribute to that story while drafting your own.
Knowledge of history can be seen as a skill. By understanding how America began, you'll sharpen the same critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills that leaders used centuries ago. Skills that still matter today.
250 Years Strong
In 2026, America will celebrate 250 years of independence. This milestone serves as a reminder of how the United States came to be. The debates, the risks, the bold choices made, can be seen as a toolkit for problem-solving, leadership and vision.
That's why we're giving students an opportunity to connect with history and track what they learn in a new way.
How to Get Started
Sign Up
Sign up for the contest newsletter to get information and instructions when contest registration opens Feb 1, 2026.
Study
Use the Study Library to enhance your history knowledge.
Track
Track your new knowledge and skills in your free Learning & Employment Record (LER).
Share
Share your LER with colleges or future employers to showcase your knowledge and skills.
Stay Updated
As part of the America 250 celebration, the US Department of Education is announcing the Presidential 1776 Award competition, which aims to enhance students' understanding of civics and knowledge of America's founding. With $250,000 in scholarship awards on the line, you won't want to miss the opportunity to register for the February 22-28 online test period. Sign up today to receive full test information and notice when Contest Registration opens.