I have some knowlenge about thie award

More than a dozen of students in each state are nominated based on best SAT score. Perfect score is not not necessary if not enough students get that. The candidates are then required to write a few essays on different specified topics. A school teacher needs to write recommendation in a very strict and lengthy format. If the candidate becomes the finalist, this teacher will also be invited to White House.

When my son was nominated for this award, he didn't submit the final application because he hates writing.