The purpose of the Texas History Essay Contest program is to assist and encourage graduating seniors to pursue their education at an institution of higher learning. Graduating seniors in any high school or home school may enter. Senior students in History, English, and Government classes are encouraged to participate. The authors of the three best essays submitted will be the scholarship winners if the essays warrant. Each contestant must submit an original and 6 photo copies of their essay for the judges (seven in all) including a CD or Flash Drive copy with contestant's name, address, phone number, and year of the contest. The student must follow the format of the Chicago Manual of Style or Turabian's Manual for Writers. Endnotes should be listed on one page and all references cited should be on a separate page. Information must come from a reliable published source (Books or Magazines) and students must acknowledge the author and publisher. Two internet sources are acceptable. The criteria used by the judges in selecting the winners will be based on a system that accurately scores the essays such as historical accuracy and content, writing quality (spelling and grammar), research references, bibliography, endnotes and whether the student followed instructions. In the event of a tie, the winners will be determined based on academic achievements. Please visit the scholarship's website for more information.