The Best-Performing Content We’ve Seen on High School Screens
When it comes to engaging high school students, not all content is created equal. Over the past few years, our 6-foot digital bulletin boards have run thousands of pieces of creative from colleges, universities, and youth-focused organizations. Some campaigns consistently grab attention, spark conversations, and drive action, while others fade quickly into the background.
Here’s a look at the best-performing content we’ve seen on high school screens, and why it works.
1. Scholarships and Financial Aid
Money matters. Content that highlights scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid opportunities always ranks among the top performers. Students are eager to see concrete ways to reduce the cost of higher education, and simple, clear calls-to-action (“Scan to Apply” or “Ask Your Counselor”) work best.
Pro Tip: Use bold numbers (“$5,000 Scholarship Available”) to instantly draw attention.
2. Deadline Reminders
Application and program deadlines cut through the noise because they create urgency. High school students appreciate clear reminders that help them stay on track, especially in the busy fall and winter months.
Pro Tip: Pair short copy with a strong visual countdown or date graphic.
3. Program Spotlights
Specific program highlights, especially in STEM, healthcare, trades, and creative industries consistently capture interest. Students want to know what pathways are out there, and program-focused content gives them a glimpse of what their future could look like.
Pro Tip: Show the outcome (career paths, alumni stories) instead of just listing program names.
4. Student Voices & Testimonials
Authenticity matters. Content featuring real student testimonials, quotes, or short video clips outperforms generic institutional messaging. High school students respond better when they see peers sharing their experiences.
Pro Tip: Keep it short and authentic, even one sentence from a current student can make an impact.
5. Interactive & QR-Driven Campaigns
We’ve seen strong engagement when schools use QR codes to link to surveys, program guides, or events. Screens are a great way to spark interest, but students need a next step. QR-driven campaigns make it easy for them to continue the journey on their phones.
Pro Tip: Place the QR code prominently and make sure the landing page is mobile-friendly.
6. Events & On-Campus Experiences
Open houses, campus tours, and virtual sessions drive high visibility. Students are curious about what college life looks like, and event-based creative gives them a clear reason to act.
Pro Tip: Include both date + benefit (“Discover our new labs on October 14”) to increase attendance.
Key Takeaways
The best-performing content on high school screens shares a few things in common: it’s student-focused, time-sensitive, and actionable. Students are drawn to opportunities that impact their future directly, whether it’s funding, deadlines, career pathways, or real-life stories.
For colleges and universities, the lesson is simple: keep your messaging relevant, authentic, and clear. When you do, your campaign won’t just be seen, it will be remembered.