Candidates must be Juniors in high school, intending to return to school for the Senior year. Students from public, private, parochial, and home-schooling programs throughout Florida are eligible. Students must be in the top third of their class. Consideration is given to scholastic achievements, leadership, character, honesty and physical fitness.

Girls are chosen by the local American Legion Auxiliary Units that work with their respective high schools through an interview process.

Any student registered as a full-time student of Florida Virtual School are not eligible to apply for the program.