The Harvard Crimson Global Essay Competition

The Harvard Crimson Global Essay Competition is a fully virtual writing challenge for motivated high school students around the world. Participants respond to university-style prompts across creative, argumentative and journalistic categories, access live webinars, on-demand bootcamps and curated learning resources, and receive essay evaluation with the possibility of endorsement by the competition organisers.

The programme is designed to sharpen writing skills and provide international recognition that can strengthen university applications and resumes. Competitors join a global network of students and can expect structured prompts, learning resources, and opportunities to have standout essays highlighted.

Past winners from 2025 are showcased on the site, illustrating the international reach of the competition. Registration is open to secure a place in the 2026 competition; Kazakhstan students have a dedicated registration link provided on the site.

The competition is run entirely online, allowing students worldwide to participate without travel.