A Sterling Scholar is a high school senior who is publicly recognized and awarded for the pursuit of excellence in scholarship, leadership and citizenship in the State of Utah. A potential Sterling Scholar presents an all-encompassing portfolio on their work in a specific category and is interviewed by judges in the category's field at various times. Sterling Scholars are awarded at the high school, semi-final and finals levels. At the awards ceremony, finalists in 14 categories are announced and then an overall Sterling Scholar winner is also announced.