Applicants must be juniors, seniors or the equivalent in a Virginia public high school, private high school or homeschooling program and be residents of Virginia who plan to attend an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S. as full-time students. Financial need is not a basis for selection. Applicants must write an essay that demonstrates an appreciation for the character and virtues of Generals Robert E. Lee and Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.