The Yale International Relations Association Global Essay Competition 2026

The YIRA Global Essay Competition is an esteemed writing contest for high school students worldwide, organized by Yale University's International Relations Association. It offers participants the opportunity to engage with global issues, enhance their writing skills, and receive feedback from Yale students. The competition aims to inspire young minds to think critically about international relations and global challenges.

Eligibility

• Students from all around the world are eligible to apply
• Students from grades 8-10

Program Date

• Early Application Deadline: 6th January 2026
• Regular Application Deadline: 8th January 2026
• Theme for the Essay Announced:3rd week of January, 2026
• Webinars on Essay Writing:
  • January 10, 2026: What global issues are important to you? Understanding how you see the world.
  • January 17, 2026: What makes a competitive essay?
  • January 24, 2026: How should we tackle global issues?
  • January 31, 2026: Top Tips for editing your essays
• Submission of the Essay: February 2-8, 2026
• Results and Topic Announcements
  • March 9, 2026: The top 50 finalists will be announced, with 10 students selected from each grade (8-12)
  • March 10, 2026: Final topics will be sent
• Webinars and Info Sessions
  • March 14, 2026: webinar on global essay writing
  • March 15, 2026: office hour with the finalists
• Final Submissions and Winners:
  • March20-22, 2026: final submissions will be done
  • March 31, 2026: top 3 winners will be announces

Application Fees 

• Early Application Fee: USD 29 - 49.30 AZN
• Regular Application Fee: USD 50 - 85 AZN 

Awards and Recognition for the Winners

• Certificates: All participants receive certificates from YIRA and Learn with Leaders.
• Top 3 Winners:
  • 1st Place: $500
  • 2nd Place: $400
  • 3rd Place: $300
• Finalists: Top 25% of participants are designated as "Finalists," acknowledging their exceptional contributions.

Rules of the Competition

• Essay Length: Approximately 400 words
• Content: Essays should address the announced theme, justifying the chosen issue and proposing brief solutions.
• Language: Essays must be written in English.
• Evaluation Criteria:
  • Clear structure and coherent argumentation
  • Demonstrated awareness of global issues
  • Innovative and thought-provoking perspectives
  • Proposed actionable solutions

Finalists' essays will be evaluated by Yale students, ensuring a rigorous and insightful review process.

Judging Criteria

• Clarity and Structure: Essays should exhibit good grammar and a coherent, strong structure.
• Awareness of Global Issues: Demonstrate an awareness of the world around them.
• Relevance and Significance: Clearly answer the question by explaining the significance of the issue.
• Engagement and Creativity: Be bold and exciting to read.
• Problem-Solving Approach: Begin to explore potential solutions to the issue.
• Thought-Provoking Content: Be thought-provoking, leaving the reader with questions to ponder.