Each year, middle and high school students have the chance to make their case on big ideas — and compete for cash prizes. This year, we award over $12,000 to students.
Beyond the prizes, the contest helps strengthen research, critical thinking, and persuasive writing skills — abilities that will serve students in school and beyond. They can enter on their own, or teachers can assign the contest and earn rewards for participation.
Eligibility & Divisions
- Middle School Division: Grades 5-8
- High School Division: Grades 9-12
- Residency: U.S., Canada, or U.S. military address
- Note: Students who enter the AI Challenge are not eligible to enter the current Essay Contest.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: March 13, 2026 by 11:59PM ET
- Winners Announced: May 31, 2026
Student Awards for Each Division
First Place: $2,500
Second Place: $1,000
Third Place: $500
Five Finalists: $200 each
Five Semi-Finalists: $100 each
15 Honorable Mentions: $50 each
Teacher Rewards
Guaranteed Rewards
- 30+ submissions earn you a $50 Amazon gift card
- The teacher with the most submissions receives a $150 Amazon gift card
Opportunity Drawing
- Each of your students’ submissions earn you an entry into a drawing for ten $50 Amazon gift cards
Essay Requirements
- Length: 500-1,000 words
- Topic: Must address one of the four prompts
- Originality: Essays must be students’ own work. Plagiarism or AI-generated content will be disqualified.
- Interview: Students whose submissions reach the final phase of judging must take part in brief remote interviews to discuss their essays. Students must have some availability during the week of May 17-23.
Scholarship Value: $2,500
Awards Available: 51
Award Deadline: Register to View