Essay writing competitions are a great way for students and young writers to showcase their writing skills and thought leadership on important topics. While there are many local and regional essay competitions held throughout the year focused on different themes, here are some of the latest and largest essay writing competitions accepting new entries:
The International Essay Contest is one of the most prestigious essay competitions for high school and undergraduate students globally. Now in its 20th year, the theme for 2023 is “Reimagining Progress for People and Planet.” Students are invited to thoughtfully address the challenges and opportunities before us as a global community in building a more just, sustainable and peaceful world for all. Cash prizes totalling $100,000 will be awarded to top winners. The deadline to submit essays of up to 5,000 words is January 31, 2023.
Another notable global competition is the annual Commonwealth Essay Competition organized by the Royal Commonwealth Society. Open to residents of Commonwealth nations between the ages of 18-25 years, the theme for 2023 is “Learning for our common future.” Entrants are asked to submit an original, unpublished 1,000-2,000 word essay exploring this theme and envisioning how education can empower new generations to build a more united, sustainable and prosperous common future. Top prizes include a £5,000 cash award for the overall winner. The submission deadline is February 28, 2023.
For university students in the United States, the Phi Kappa Phi Essay Contest is a great opportunity to showcase written work. With a theme of “The Benefits of Diversity,” participants must submit a 1,000-1,500 word essay exploring how inclusion and understanding across various dimensions of human identity can strengthen communities and societies. Cash prizes worth over $5,000 will be awarded to the top three submissions. The competition deadline is March 1, 2023.
Moving to an Asia-focused competition, the Singapore International Foundation’s annual APEC Study Centre Consortium Essay Competition invites university students from APEC member economies to analyze issues concerning the Asia-Pacific region. For 2023, the theme is “Advancing Digital Connectivity for Inclusive Growth in APEC.” Strong research and original 1,500-2,000 word essays will be considered for cash prizes up to S$3,000. The submission window closes on April 30, 2023.
In Australia, one of the most prestigious annual essay contests is hosted by The Essay Prize Foundation with support from the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund. Open to Australian residents aged 18-30 years, the 2023 theme is “Our Shared Future.” Participants are asked to explore how we can build trust, collaboration and mutual understanding to promote the well-being of all people and planet in a 1,500-2,500 word essay. Three winners will receive cash prizes totalling $30,000. Submissions close on June 30, 2023.
Within the United Kingdom, the BBC World Service Essay Competition invites entries from residents aged 18-30 worldwide to share fresh perspectives on a globally significant issue through well-researched 1,000-1,500 word writing. The 2023 theme examining sustainable development is “A greener, fairer future.” UK residents or citizens can win prizes up to £3,000 while global prize money totals £5,000. Submissions are accepted until August 31, 2023.
A new entrant for 2023 is the Climate Reality Essay Competition launched in partnership with Al Gore’s Climate Reality Project. Open internationally to 13-22 year olds, participants are challenged to envision solutions and opportunities presented by the climate crisis through an original 1,000-2,000 word essay. Prizes worth over $15,000 will support winner’s continued education and climate leadership. Submissions close on October 15, 2023.
Finally, for high school students in Canada, EssayCoach.ca hosts an annual Writing Contest focused on skill-building. While the 2023 theme is yet to be announced, past topics have explored issues like reconciliation, identity and mental health. By submitting an original 1,000-1,500 word work, participants can win cash awards up to $2,000 as well as feedback and mentorship. Entries will be accepted from November 1 to 30, 2023.
Essay writing competitions provide a valuable platform for students and emerging writers worldwide to develop important skills in research, critical thinking and persuasive communication. By engaging thoughtfully with major themes impacting our collective future, participants can expand their own perspectives while also contributing fresh ideas and insight. For those interested in entering, careful consideration of submission guidelines, thorough research and well-structured, persuasive writing will help projects stand out. Overall, taking part in essay challenges enriches individual learning and fosters more empowered global citizenship.