You Deserve to Be Seen

Colleges are looking to recruit students like you. The 2024 recognition awards have been announced!

✦ Check 'My Profile' to see your award status and download your certificates. ✦

What are the National Recognition Programs?

A tangible way to recognize the academic achievements of rural area/small town, African American/Black, Hispanic/Latino, Indigenous/Native American, and (new in 2024) first-generation students.

Why Submit for the National Recognition Programs?

It Helps You Get Recruited

Many colleges intentionally recruit awardees.

Show You're a Top Student

Receiving recognition is a way for you and your community to celebrate your achievements.

Explore Your Options

You may find out about colleges you didn’t know existed or wouldn’t have considered.

How to Qualify for National Recognition Programs

Recognition Notification

2024 Awardees Have Been Announced.

Log In

The National Recognition Programs are connected to your College Board account. You can log in to BigFuture with your College Board account to check your award status in My Profile.

Download Your Certificate

In my profile, click download certificate in the National Recognition Programs section.

Eligibility Criteria for National Recognition Programs

Students can submit in 10th or 11th grade, based on:

• Take the Fall 2023 PSAT/NMSQT (10th or 11th) or Spring PSAT 10 (10th) and score in the top 10% of test takers from their award program in their state.
• Or earn a 3+ on 2 or more distinct AP exams in the 9th and/or 10th grade.
• And earn a cumulative GPA of B+ or higher (at least 3.3 or 87-89%) by the time of submission.
• And identify as first-generation, Black or African American, Hispanic or Latino, Indigenous or Native and/or attend school in a rural area or small town.

✦ Student Search Service™ is how thousands of colleges find students like you. Opt In. ✦

My Recognition Story

I was very proud to list this award on my college applications. I definitely think it added to my overall application. It meant a lot to me, because it showed my commitment and dedication to my schoolwork.

Tyra C., Class of 2022 National African American Recognition Awardee

It felt like I was getting recognition for all my hard work and allowed me to feel like I was part of an important group of people. This award means a lot to me, especially as an ethnic minority, who is used to not being in the light.

Vicky M., Class of 2023 National Hispanic Recognition Awardee

Winning this award meant so much to me. It really validated all the hard work that I have put into my academic career and served as an encouragement to work even harder.

Elise Z., Class of 2023 National Hispanic Recognition Awardee

I will be the first in my family to attend college. This recognition was a reminder I can do it. In addition, it has given me a sense of accomplishment and pride in myself.

Liam B., Class of 2024 National Rural and Small Town & Hispanic Recognition Awardee