All candidates are invited to apply to the program in January of their graduation year. Applications are due in February. Semifinalists are announced in mid-April and all Scholars are announced during May. The National Recognition Program in Washington, DC usually occurs in June.
An overview of selection progression follows:
| Designation | Number of candidates | Ratio | Percent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduating senior | 3,600,000 (approx.) eligible to apply | 1 in 1 | 100% |
| Presidential Scholar Candidate | 4500 (approx.) | 1 in 800 | 0.125% |
| Presidential Scholar Semifinalist | 800 (approx.) | 8 in 45 | 17.778% |
| Presidential Scholar | 121 in academics, 20 in arts, 20 in career & technical education | 161 in 800 | 20.125% |
