Harvard International Review Academic Writing Contest

Philosophy, History, Theology, Politics, Economics, Psychology, Law

Contest Details

Eligibility

High school students G9-G12 worldwide

Recommended Preparation Length

12 Weeks/Oct-Dec

Program Duration

6 hours

Submission Deadline

All year

BackgroundFormatThemeSubmission GuidelinesTimelinePrizes

The Harvard International Review is a quarterly journal offering scholarly insights into international affairs. Founded in 1979, the quarterly journal is dedicated to bridging scholarship and policy through outstanding writing and editorial choices. Each issue of the Harvard International Review includes exclusive interviews and social commentary by international luminaries, as well as analysis of hot international topics by experts in various fields. The journal includes feature commentaries by 43 Presidents and prime ministers, 4 secretaries-general, 4 Winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics and 7 Winners of the Nobel Peace Prize.

Contestants will submit a short essay on international current events. Each entry will be read and graded by the Harvard Review panel of judges. Finalists will be invited to participate in the HIR defense competition. On Defense Day, students will have the opportunity to make a 15-minute presentation and oral defense to the judges.

Topics related to international affairs. Potential categories include (but are not limited to): Agriculture, Business, Cybersecurity, Defense, Education, Employment, Immigration, Energy, Environment, Economics, Public Health, Science and Technology, Trade and Transportation.

1. Essay should be strictly limited to 800-1200 words (excluding charts, data sheets or author statements)

2. Submissions should provide analysis of an underrated global topic.

3. Submissions should present a comprehensive view of a subject. Entries must be well researched and understood and written in a formal style.

4. Essays should have a theme, not just a collection of current events.

5. Citations and sources: All factual statements must be supported by reliable citations. Must be an AP style reference

Spring 2024

Submission Deadline: May 31, 2024

Defense Day: June 26, 2024

Summer 2024

Submission Deadline: August 31, 2024

Defense Day: September 25, 2024

Fall 2024 / Winter 2025

Submission Deadline: January 2, 2024

Defense Day: February 5, 2024

All Participants: HIR Digital Subscription

Commendation: HIR Certificate

Bronze Medal: HIR Certificate and name listed on website

Silver Medal: HIR Certificate, name listed on website and 1-year HIR print subscription

Gold Medal: HIR Certificate, name and paper linked on website and 2-year HIR print subscription