How a 30-second video can earn high school seniors a college scholarship

This piece is sponsored by The First National Bank in Sioux Falls.

Hey high school seniors, now’s your chance to earn $1,000 when you apply for First National Bank’s 2026 scholarships!

All it takes is a short video and some info you probably already have from your other scholarship applications.

How to apply

The process to apply for the scholarships is easy — no essay required. Simply submit the following through this form on the bank’s website:

• An application.
• A copy of your high school transcript.
• A 30- to 60-second video answering this year’s prompt.

First National Bank likes to get to know scholarship applicants on a more personal level, which is why they’ve selected the following prompt for 2026:

Tell us about a time you saw a need or opportunity and took action. What was the result, and what did you learn?

When making your video, you might find it helpful to review the bank’s FIRST Values and Mission Statement.

Although First National wants this video to be about you and your story, the bank also would love to see you incorporate the values it upholds.

Completing the application process

As soon as your video is ready, it’s time to hit up your favorite coffee shop and work through the steps below.

1. Download and complete the two-page application.
2. Request your official high school transcript from your school.
3. Create and post your 30- to 60-second video on YouTube, Vimeo, TikTok or Instagram Reels. Choose “public” or “unlisted: when uploading your video, and include the link with your other application materials.
4. Upload the items using this form. All requirements listed above must be met, or it will result in disqualification of the applicant.

You must have a checking or savings account with The First National Bank in Sioux Falls at the time of application. If you currently do not, learn more about opening a Student Checking account here.

Each applicant must be a graduating area high school senior who plans to attend an accredited institution of higher learning — public or private — as a full-time student, and the scholarship is not renewable.

Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, March 31.