About the competition
The Harvard Crimson Global Essay Competition (HCGEC) 2027 gives students aged 10–18 a global stage for their ideas. Since 2021, more than 29,000 students from 140+ countries have taken part, making it one of the world’s largest international essay competitions for young writers.
Participants write a 500-word essay in one of three tracks:
Creative: for storytellers and imaginative writers
Argumentative: for students who love to debate, persuade and analyse
Journalistic: for aspiring reporters and student journalists
The competition is fully virtual and individual, so students can enter from anywhere in the world. No prior competition experience is needed. Every registration includes free writing webinars to help students sharpen their skills as they write.
Why enter?
- Compete with talented young writers from around the world
- Build a recognised writing credential that stands out on university applications
- Win prizes including up to US$8,000 in e-gift cards, up to US$8,000 in Crimson credits, and a free place on The Harvard Crimson Summer Journalism Course
Key dates and fees
Early-bird registration: US$15 until 15 December 2026
Regular registration: US$20 until 10 February 2027
Use CODE - SCC5 for additional $5 off!
Full details on tracks, prompts, dates and prizes: https://www.essaycomp.org/information-guide
Participants write a 500-word essay in one of three tracks:
Creative: for storytellers and imaginative writers
Argumentative: for students who love to debate, persuade and analyse
Journalistic: for aspiring reporters and student journalists
The competition is fully virtual and individual, so students can enter from anywhere in the world. No prior competition experience is needed. Every registration includes free writing webinars to help students sharpen their skills as they write.
Why enter?
- Compete with talented young writers from around the world
- Build a recognised writing credential that stands out on university applications
- Win prizes including up to US$8,000 in e-gift cards, up to US$8,000 in Crimson credits, and a free place on The Harvard Crimson Summer Journalism Course
Key dates and fees
Early-bird registration: US$15 until 15 December 2026
Regular registration: US$20 until 10 February 2027
Use CODE - SCC5 for additional $5 off!
Full details on tracks, prompts, dates and prizes: https://www.essaycomp.org/information-guide
Prize
Mixed/Other
Up to US$8,000 in e-gift cards, up to US$8,000 in Crimson credits, and a free place on The Harvard Crimson Summer Journalism Course.
Deadline
February 10, 2027
3 months from now
Eligibility
High school Students
Open worldwide unless noted.
