Each year, the Buckley Institute sponsors three essay contests: one for Yale undergraduates, one for all American undergraduates, and one for American high school students. The winners receive monetary awards and an invitation to our annual conference.
Essay Contest
Details
Since 2013, the Buckley Institute has held an annual essay contest inviting Yale undergraduates and high school students from across the country to comment on a question of major political significance. In 2024, the Buckley Institute added its first national undergraduate essay contest. The top three essayists in each contest receive cash prizes, and are invited to receive their award at the Buckley Institute’s annual conference.
Past Topics
- Milton Friedman’s Capitalism and Freedom
- James Burnham’s Suicide of the West
- What is the Greatest Threat to Free Speech?
Current Essay Contest
The 2025 National Essay Contest for U.S. undergraduates is now closed. Check back over the summer for the Yale undergraduate and high school essay contests.
Email info@buckleyinstitute.com with any questions.
Essay Contest Photos
