Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about regulations, hours, and eligibility.
Can I count hours from before I registered?
No. You can only count hours for activities that take place after you have officially registered for the Congressional Award program. Retroactive hours are not permitted.
Can family members serve as my Advisor or Validator?
No. Parents, relatives, and peers cannot serve as Advisors or Validators. These roles must be filled by adult non-relatives such as teachers, coaches, employers, or community leaders.
Does "12 Months" mean I have to wait a year to get my Silver Medal?
Yes. The months requirement ensures sustained commitment. For the Silver Medal, you must be active for at least 12 months. This means you must log some activity in at least 12 separate months.
Can I double count hours (e.g., for school credit and the Award)?
Generally, yes. If you are doing community service for a school club (like NHS), you can also count those hours for the Congressional Award, provided they verify it. However, you cannot double count hours across different program areas (e.g., counting a soccer game for both Fitness and Personal Development).
How do I submit my Record Book?
Record Books are typically submitted online through the Submittable platform, or mailed as a physical copy to the national office. Be sure to have all Validator signatures before submitting.