In April, a panel of educators will select 500 semifinalists on the basis of their essays, self-assessments, descriptions of activities, school recommendations and school transcripts.The White House Commission on Presidential Scholars, a group of 30 citizens appointed by the president, will select the winning students from the semifinalists on the basis of superior academic and artistic achievements, leadership qualities, strong character and involvement in community and school activities. The group will choose one young man and one young woman from each state and extrastate jurisdiction; up to 20 students from the creative and performing arts and 15 students at-large. The scholars will be announced in May.

Scholars will be invited to Washington, D.C. in late June to receive the Presidential Scholars medallion at a recognition ceremony and to participate in activities with their elected representatives, educators and others in public life.