National Recognition Programs

You Deserve to Be Seen

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

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.

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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.

My Recognition Story

I would definitely recommend submitting for the award due to the ease of submission and the prestige of an award from College Board. There is a lot of benefit for not a lot of effort!

Anshu C. Class of 2025 National Rural and Small Town Recognition Awardee

I received this award because I did well on my PSAT in 11th grade and also maintained high grades. Winning this award means I've been recognized for the hard work I've put into my high school years.

Jada R., Class of 2024 National African American Recognition Program Awardee

I would recommend this award because it is very easy to submit and, if received, comes with great benefits.

Juliana H., Class of 2023 National Hispanic and Rural and Small-Town 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

Frequently Asked Questions