Oxford Economics Society Sixth Form Essay Competition 2026
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Fancy testing your economic thinking against Oxford? Tackle one of three essay prompts, research beyond the curriculum, and sharpen persuasive writing and analytical skills. Build a standout piece for uni applications and connect with Oxford academics.
The Oxford Economics Society Sixth Form Essay Competition 2026 invites students to submit an economics essay in response to one of three questions: a macroeconomic prompt, a microeconomic prompt, or an interdisciplinary question. The competition is run in collaboration with the Department for Economics at the University of Oxford and is designed to stretch students beyond the school curriculum.
It aims to build independent research skills, economic reasoning, and clear persuasive writing. Entrants are encouraged to use contemporary and historical sources, real-world examples, and relevant economic theory, while essays are judged on the quality of the argument, depth of understanding, and originality of ideas.
This is a strong opportunity for ambitious sixth form students considering competitive economics degrees at university. In addition to cash prizes for the top entries, the competition recognises highly commended work and requires entries to be the candidate’s own original work, free from plagiarism and AI-generated content.
14 August 2026
Deadline stated as "23:59 (BST), Friday 14th August 2026." Essays must be submitted by this deadline to be considered.
Location
- Open to students in Year 12 or Year 13 at the time of the competition.
- Open to international candidates in equivalent year groups.
- Only one entry per candidate is permitted.
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