AFSA National High School Essay Contest

Cost: Free

Description: The American Foreign Service Association invites high school students to write essays analyzing how the U.S. Foreign Service has responded to major global challenges. The contest promotes critical thinking and a deeper understanding of diplomacy and international affairs. Students are encouraged to connect historical examples to current global issues.

Dates: Submissions due by March 1, 2025

Grade Levels: Grades 9–12

Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Location Requirements: U.S. citizens or permanent residents enrolled in U.S. high schools, either domestically or abroad

Link: https://afsa.org/rules-and-guidelines

Additional Info: First place receives $2,500, a trip to Washington, D.C., and a full scholarship to Semester at Sea. The runner-up wins $1,250 and a scholarship to a diplomacy program.