As a high school student, writing is one of the most powerful ways to clarify your thinking, explore complex ideas, and express what matters most to you. Beyond the classroom, essay contests for high school students offer a meaningful way to engage deeply with subjects you care about, challenge yourself academically, and demonstrate your intellectual abilities.

Picture spending your time crafting an argument you’re genuinely passionate about, digging into research, or being recognized for the sharpness of your arguments. Essay contests are more than writing assignments: they’re opportunities to think critically, explore topics beyond the classroom, and produce work you can be proud of. 

Enrolling in essay contests can also demonstrate an ability to think critically, engage deeply with a topic, and write in a structured manner. Even participating can demonstrate research ability and an interest in academics during college applications.

What essay contests for high school students are available?

Picking which competition to participate in can be overwhelming. There are countless options, and not all offer the same level of rigor or recognition. Some are vague, overly broad, or don’t push you to develop writing or research skills. That’s why knowing which contests are truly reputable is important, so you can make the right choice.

There are various highly regarded essay competitions across subjects like literature, history, economics, science, philosophy, and politics. They will challenge you to write with depth, use real research, and articulate original ideas, helping you grow as a thinker and a communicator.

You’ll strengthen your research abilities, learn to build evidence-based arguments, and develop writing skills that’ll help you in college and beyond. You will develop discipline and confidence, while the recognition can be valuable for future college applications.

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 15 Essay Contests for High School Students. They’ve been picked for their academic rigor, credibility, and potential to help you develop research skills.

1. Immerse Education Essay Competition 

Location: Global — online submission 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: January 14
Program Dates: Flexible, with winners announced several months after the deadline 
Eligibility: Open to high school students worldwide 

The Immerse Education Essay Competition allows you to explore a wide range of academic topics through a rigorous writing process, making it one of the most academically structured essay contests for high school students worldwide. You are expected to develop clear, well-structured arguments supported by detailed research. The competition emphasizes critical analysis, originality, and coherence, mirroring the demands of university-level essay writing.

You will receive constructive feedback aimed at refining your writing skills. The competition includes multiple award categories recognizing diverse academic fields. Winning essays receive academic recognition in the form of full or partial scholarships to take part in Immerse’s residential and online programmes. 

Why it stands out: You’ll have the chance to earn substantial scholarships to world-class academic programs, including academic summer schools, career programs, and Online Research Programmes.

2. Horizon Essay Prize 

Location: Global — online entry 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: February 1
Program Dates: Six-month submission window with announcements in mid-year  
Eligibility: Students aged 13–19 worldwide 

The Horizon Essay Prize encourages you to address significant global challenges and issues of contemporary importance in your writing. You will be judged on your capacity to present evidence-based solutions, critical reasoning, and originality of thought. Beyond simply producing a polished essay, you may receive mentorship to enhance your understanding of effective academic writing strategies.

The experience fosters skills such as research synthesis, ethical argumentation, and persuasive communication—key to succeeding in college writing tasks. Awards include scholarships and recognition from academic professionals, enabling students to build profiles grounded exclusively in scholarly achievements. 

Why it stands out: It offers an accessible platform for you to showcase critical thinking and clear writing.

3. Lumiere Scholars Essay Award 

Location: Global — online submission 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: November 2
Program Dates: July 21–November 2 (submission window)
Eligibility: High school students aged 13–18 

Lumiere’s essay contest invites you to write essays that showcase original thinking and thorough research, positioning it as one of the more research-driven essay contests for high school students. Entries will be assessed based on clarity, the strength of arguments, and the integration of relevant academic concepts. The contest includes guided mentorship, providing you with structured feedback to enhance your academic writing and research skills.

This iterative process fosters intellectual growth and prepares students for the conventions and standards of university-level scholarship. Winners will receive recognition through publication opportunities and certificates, helping to build an academically impressive dossier for higher education admissions. 

Why it stands out: If you get shortlisted, it could signal research maturity and academic seriousness to top universities.

4. John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest 

Location: Primarily U.S.-based; international entries accepted 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: January 12
Program Dates: Submission opens in the fall, closes in January; winners announced in the spring 
Eligibility: U.S. high school students in grades 9–12 

This contest invites you to research and write essays on acts of political courage by U.S. elected leaders. The focus is on historical analysis complemented by a well-structured presentation. You will be required to provide supporting evidence through rigorous research, emphasizing reliability and source attribution.

The competition promotes critical thinking about governance and ethics, mirroring the intellectual rigor expected in collegiate humanities courses. Winners receive scholarships and official recognition from the JFK Library. This contest supports development in historical inquiry and advanced academic writing without commercial bias. 

Why it stands out: You’ll gain prestige, scholarships, and recognition from a historic institution.

5. National WWII Museum Essay Contest 

Location: U.S.-based, open to international schools 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: January 23
Program Dates: October 27–January 23 
Eligibility: Middle and high school students 

This essay contest invites students to explore themes related to World War II using both primary and secondary sources. Essays will be assessed based on historical accuracy, depth of analysis, and clarity of narrative. You will develop a methodical approach to historiographical research and learn to present your findings in a formal essay format.

Prizes include scholarships and educational resources to promote the ongoing study of history. This contest aims to enhance the analytical and expository skills that are essential for academic success in the social sciences and humanities. 

Why it stands out: Participating would demonstrate your ability to think critically and help with future academic pursuits.

6. Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contest 

Location: Global — online submission 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: Varies from January to April, depending on the contest 
Program Dates: Multiple contests throughout the year 
Eligibility: Students aged 14–18 

This contest centers on the philosophical themes present in the works of Ayn Rand. You will be required to write analytical essays that defend a specific position, supported by textual evidence. The judging criteria focus on logical consistency, depth of thought, and the overall quality of writing. The contest aims to enhance persuasive writing and critical reasoning skills within a structured academic environment.

Winners receive scholarships and publication opportunities based solely on the merit of their essays. Participation allows you to engage thoughtfully with philosophical literature and develop skills that are valuable for university-level humanities programs. 

Why it stands out: It involves tackling complex philosophical and ethical themes, so participating could demonstrate strong argumentative writing and independent reasoning.

7. Global Essay Prize | John Locke Institute

Location: Global — online submission 
Cost: Free (late submission fees apply); varies from £25 – £75
Application Deadline: Registration by May 31; Submission by June 30; Late submissions accepted with fees until July 21
Program Dates: Registration opens April 1; Results by mid-August; Awards ceremony and academic conference in October
Eligibility: Students worldwide aged 18 and under for the main prize; 14 and under for the Junior category

You’ll select one essay question from categories including Philosophy, Politics, Economics, History, Law, Psychology, Theology, and Junior. Essays must not exceed 2,000 words (excluding bibliography, diagrams, and endnotes). Originality is strictly enforced; each essay must be the work of a single individual and verified by an academic referee. Entries are judged on knowledge, argumentation, originality, clarity, structure, and persuasive writing.

Scholarships range from $1,000 to $10,000, awarded to winners who may attend an invitation-only academic conference and awards ceremony in London (attendance optional). The competition encourages deep independent thought, critical analysis, and persuasive academic writing on challenging questions beyond typical school curricula.

Why it stands out: It’s known for its intellectual rigor and cross-disciplinary depth, so you could develop university-level reasoning skills.

8. The Coolidge Scholarship Essay Contest 

Location: Open to U.S. citizens globally 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: September 10
Program Dates: Spring to Fall
Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors and college entrants 

As part of the broader Coolidge Scholarship, the essay portion requires applicants to explore themes of public service and leadership. Submissions must demonstrate critical thought and clear, concise writing. Awards cover full tuition and expenses, but selection is based on academic rigor.

The judges will assess each essay according to clarity of writing, quality of analysis and argument, strength of supporting evidence, and proper syntax and grammar. The essay encourages reflective writing adopted in undergraduate scholarship applications. First-place winners will receive a $10,000 award, while second-place winners get $5,000, and ten finalists receive $1,000. 

Why it stands out: It focuses on public policy, civic thought, and economics, preparing you well for future work in these fields.

9. Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) Essay Contest

Location: Primarily North America, open worldwide for eligible participants — online submission
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: June 1
Program Dates: February – June
Eligibility: High school and college students in specified regions, with occasional open international categories

You’ll write essays analyzing topics related to the works and legacy of Jane Austen, focusing on literary analysis, historical context, and thematic exploration. Essays are judged based on originality, critical thinking, textual support, and clarity of expression.

The contest encourages you to deepen your understanding of Austen’s novels and their cultural significance, fostering advanced academic writing and interpretative skills. Winners often receive cash awards, certificates, and recognition at JASNA events. The contest promotes engaging with classic literature through rigorous, evidence-based academic writing. 

Why it stands out: Participating could showcase close-reading skills and advanced literary analysis.

10. Bennington Young Writers Awards 

Location: Global online submissions 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: November 1
Program Dates: September 1 – November 1
Eligibility: High school students 

Bennington College’s Young Writers Awards (YWA) is an annual global writing competition and one of the most recognised creative essay contests for high school students, inviting entries in poetry, fiction, or nonfiction, all under 1,500 words. Submissions are free and must be original, teacher-sponsored, and submitted by November 1 each year.

Cash prizes go up to US $2,000 for first place (with lower amounts for second, third, and distinguished submissions). The YWA is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious high-school writing contests, drawing thousands of submissions worldwide each year.

Why it stands out: Winners or finalists who later enrol at Bennington may receive substantial four-year undergraduate scholarships.

11. Catholic University Law Review High School Essay Contest

Location: Global — online submission
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: Submission typically closes in late spring/summer 
Program Dates: Annual contest with prompts announced each year; results published the following year
Eligibility: High school students 

Participants write essays responding to a complex legal prompt, focusing on topics intersecting law and society, such as due process, free speech, education law, gender justice, and judicial philosophies. Essays are evaluated on legal reasoning, use of evidence, clarity, originality, and persuasive argumentation.

The contest promotes critical thinking and rigorous legal analysis to prepare you for advanced academic and legal studies. Winners receive recognition and accolades, including first place, runner-up, and honorable mentions. This contest fosters engagement with contemporary legal challenges through scholarly writing and research.

Why it stands out: It’s unique for offering a chance to write in a professional legal format, so it could signal early aptitude for law, policy, and analytical writing.

12. American Foreign Service Association High School Essay Contest 

Location: U.S.-based, international entries accepted 
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: January 30
Program Dates: October 31 – January 30
Eligibility: U.S. high school students 

The AFSA National High School Essay Contest invites you to submit an original essay on a prompt dealing with diplomacy, global affairs, or the role of the foreign service. Essays must follow strict formatting and citation rules and are judged blind on writing quality, research depth and analytical clarity.

The winner receives US $2,500, while the runner-up gets US $1,250, along with opportunities such as a trip to Washington, D.C., and an educational voyage.Winners (and some runners-up) also get recognized publicly on AFSA’s website.The contest aims to encourage you to reflect on diplomatic history, global challenges, and the importance of international relations.

Why it stands out: It could deepen your understanding of diplomacy, global affairs, and international negotiations.

Location: Global — online submission
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: September 21
Program Dates: Fall
Eligibility: High school students

Each year, the contest centers on a current, critical legal theme, encouraging you to engage deeply with constitutional and legal issues. Essays, typically 500–1,500 words, must present clear, structured arguments supported by legal sources such as court cases or constitutional provisions.

Entries are judged on originality, analytical depth, use of evidence, coherence, and clarity. The top three essays are published on the Princeton Legal Journal website, and several honorable mentions are recognized. This contest fosters critical legal thinking and writing skills in a rigorous academic context.

Why it stands out: Participation could highlight the ability for advanced reasoning and signal an interest in law or public policy.

14. Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) High School Essay Contest

Location: U.S. — online submission
Cost: Free 
Application Deadline: February 19
Program Dates: December 10
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in U.S. schools

The contest asks you to write essays on journalistic values, such as ethical reporting, press freedom, and the role of journalism in democracy. Essays are evaluated on originality, understanding of journalism principles, clarity, and persuasive argumentation.

The contest encourages you to explore and articulate the importance of the First Amendment and ethical journalism practices. Winners receive cash prizes and national recognition, fostering interest in journalism careers and media literacy skills.

Why it stands out: It focuses on real-world media issues, giving you a taste of authentic journalistic inquiry.

 15. GRC Social Impact Essay Competition

Location: Global — online submission
Cost: $20
Application Deadline: December 31
Program Dates: September 1 – December 31
Eligibility: High school students (individual or groups up to 3)

Students choose a prompt related to social impact topics, including Technology for Good, Public Sector Innovations, Global Health, Human Rights, Sustainable Development & Climate Change, and Education’s Role in Gender Equality & Social Mobility. Essays must be 500 to 1,000 words, excluding titles, references, and footnotes. You may include up to two supporting graphics, such as charts or infographics. Plagiarism is strictly prohibited, and all work is screened.

Winners receive internships with GRC university branches, mentorship from Ivy League coaches, publication opportunities, and digital certificates recognizing achievement. This contest promotes critical thinking, research skills, and social awareness among young scholars aiming to make meaningful contributions.

Why it stands out: It offers thematic freedom and international exposure, so you could demonstrate the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly.

Preparing for University Through Writing

Strong writing skills shape how you think, research, and communicate ideas, long before you reach university.

Taking part in essay contests for high school students helps you practise building arguments, using evidence, and expressing original perspectives with confidence.

Beyond awards or recognition, these competitions develop discipline, clarity, and intellectual independence that universities value highly.

If you’re keen to challenge yourself further, our Essay Competition offers a supportive way to explore big ideas, refine your academic voice, and take the next step in your university preparation journey.