The
HARVARD CRIMSON
GLOBAL ESSAY COMPETITION

A fully virtual writing challenge for motivated high school students around the world. Through university-style prompts, global competition and plentiful learning resources, students will sharpen their writing and gain international recognition that builds university applications.

Why
SHOULD YOU ENTER?

Build writing skills

Learn and execute university-style writing
Access live webinars, on-demand bootcamps and curated resources
Have your essays evaluated, and possibly endorsed by HCGEC
Set your university application or resume up for success
No barriers to entry

100% online and open to students around the globe
Join best-in-class bootcamps, webinars and a global network virtually
Compete and network with highly-motivated students from around the world
Explore your future

Challenge yourself and expand your writing repertoire
Explore a variety of careers that speak to your enjoyment of writing
Whether you’re dreaming of journalism, media, marketing or communications, let this be your starting point

Learn how it all works

HCGEC 2026
timeline at a glance

A timeline graphic displaying key dates and events related to a writing contest, including registration openings, essay prompts announcement, finalist and winner announcements, and submission deadlines, with icons of a clock, megaphone, and envelope.

A timeline graphic showing key dates for a contest or event, including deadlines for essay prompts, regional and global submissions, and announcements of winners, with icons of a clock, envelope, megaphone, and text indicating dates.

SEE THE FULL TIMELINE AND SUBMISSION DETAILS

STEP INTO THE challenge

Every year, students tackle bold questions. Here’s a taste of what they faced, and the essays that rose to the top.

CREATIVE

Craft a narrative from the viewpoint of a character perceiving the world differently. Explore how this unique perspective influences relationships, decisions, and their understanding of reality.
argumentative

Evaluate the pros and cons of private space exploration versus international collaborations. Argue for the most effective approach to advancing human exploration and the understanding of outer space.
journalistic

Shine a light on the contributions of women in informal economies globally. Investigate the challenges they face, the importance of recognizing their work, and potential policy measures to improve their economic status.