Global Essay Challenge
A Celebration of Ideas, Ambition & Academic Excellence
Each year, the Quintus Scholars Essay Challenge invites bright young minds aged 13–18 from around the world to step into the arena of ideas, creativity, and scholarship. More than a competition, it is a gateway to opportunity: recognition from leading academics, scholarships to transformative programmes, and a platform to showcase intellectual curiosity on the global stage.
Why Enter?
- Prestige & Recognition: Be recognised as one of the most promising scholars of your generation.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Earn full or partial awards toward Quintus Scholars’ world-class programmes.
- Exclusive Academic Access: Join invite-only workshops, Scholars’ Forums, and mentorship sessions with leading thinkers.
- Global Connections: Connect with a network of ambitious peers and future leaders across continents.
- Verified Credentials: Every entrant receives a certificate and digital credential to enhance university and career applications.
Key points to note
- Draft your essay and video responses before submitting, as the form cannot be saved midway.
- Applications will be assessed periodically by our Bursary and Financial Aid Standing Committee. We encourage early submission to maximise your chances, with decisions communicated promptly after each review cycle.
- Submit your essay, video, and financial verification in one complete application.
- Full (100%) and partial bursaries (up to 100%) are valid for programme fees for our residential summer programmes and online research fellowship programmes in the same academic cycle only and cannot be exchanged for cash.
- Successful applicants will receive confirmation on or before 1st March, with a clear confirmation deadline.
Awards & Distinctions
Our prize tiers are designed to honour excellence at every level
Summit Scholar
- 50–100% scholarship toward Quintus Scholars programmes
- Eligible for publication in our annual Academic Laureate Showcase
- Prestige credential, suitable for UCAS, Common App, and LinkedIn to name a few!
Merit Scholar
- Tuition credit toward in-person or online programmes
- Access to exclusive masterclasses with senior academics
- Featured recognition in our Spotlight in the Scholars' Review
Emerging Scholar
- Invitation to Scholars’ Forums: interactive sessions exploring global themes and leadership skills
- Digital credential marking achievement and ambition
Scholars' Credential
- Free access to a Scholars' Accelerator
- Personalised feedback guide to support academic growth
Key Dates
1st July
31st Decemeber
31st January
July, August
What We’re Looking For
Participants submit a 500-word essay on one of our curated topics; ranging from Law, Medicine, Philosophy, and Engineering to open-ended themes inviting originality.
Essays are anonymously reviewed by academic specialists and guest judges, with attention to:
- Quality of argument and analysis
- Originality of thought
- Research and evidence
- Structure, clarity, and style
The Experience Beyond the Competition
The Quintus Scholars Essay Competition is an elite, highly selective programme that brings together some of the world’s brightest young minds. Achieving recognition; whether as a Quintus Summit Scholar, earning Academic Distinction, or being named on the Scholars Credential; is not just an accolade; it is your gateway to a world of intellectual opportunity and personal growth.
Winners and recognised entrants are invited to our exclusive enrichment programmes, designed to elevate your academic skills and expand your horizons:
- Scholars’ Forums: Live, interactive sessions with world-class educators and industry thought-leaders, providing insight, guidance, and practical skills to thrive academically and professionally.
- Masterclass Series: Seasonal deep-dives into critical topics, including university admissions preparation, interview mastery, public speaking for influence, and interdisciplinary thinking.
- Scholars’ Accelerator: Year-round access to recordings, resources, and tools that support continuous learning, skill development, and personal growth.
Participation in this essay competition is both challenging but highly rewarding; it is your invitation to challenge yourself, connect with ambitious peers globally, and join a prestigious network of young scholars shaping the future. Every recognised entry unlocks unique opportunities to refine your thinking, broaden your perspective, and leave a lasting impact on your academic journey.
Apply today and take your first step into a world of intellectual distinction, opportunity, and global recognition.
How to Enter
- Register Interest: Receive the official Essay Guide with topics, specifications, and tips.
- Write Your Essay: Choose from our list of subject questions or propose your own.
- Submit Online: Essays are uploaded via the Quintus Scholars portal.
- Join the Community: We welcome all entrants to access our resources and credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can enter the competition?
The competition is open to students aged 13–18 from anywhere in the world. You must still be within this age range at the time the scholarships are awarded.
2. Does it cost anything to participate?
No. Entry to the competition is completely free of charge. All students have an equal opportunity to participate regardless of financial background.
3. What is the word limit for the essay?
Essays should be around 500 words in length. We allow a 10% margin either side (450–550 words). References, footnotes, and bibliographies are not included in the word count
4. How do I choose my essay topic?
You may select one topic from the official list of subject-specific questions, or you can choose the open category to propose your own original theme.
5. How are essays assessed?
Essays are blind-marked by subject experts and guest judges. Entries are evaluated based on originality, critical thinking, clarity of argument, evidence and research, and overall structure and style.
7. What can I use the scholarship for?
Scholarships can be applied to Quintus Scholars’ summer schools and academic programmes held in prestigious global locations such as Oxford, Cambridge, London, New York, Toronto, and more.
8. When will I know the results?
The results are typically announced within four weeks of the submission deadline. All entrants will be notified by email.
9. Will my essay be published?
Top-performing essays may be selected for inclusion in the Quintus Scholars Academic Showcase and featured in our publications. Authors will be notified before any essay is published.
10. Do I need to enrol in a programme before entering?
No. You do not need to be enrolled in any Quintus Scholars programme to enter the competition. Entry is open to all eligible students worldwide.
11. Can I submit more than one essay?
Only one essay per student will be accepted. Please choose your topic carefully before submission.
12. What happens if I miss the deadline?
Unfortunately, late entries cannot be accepted. To avoid missing out, we recommend registering your interest early so you receive reminder emails and guidance ahead of the deadline.
13. What support is available to entrants?
Once you register, you will receive the official Essay Competition Guide, including:
- A full list of topics
- Essay writing tips and referencing guidance
- Invitations to live webinars and workshops
- Access to academic resources
14. What makes a winning essay stand out?
Winning essays combine original insight with well-structured arguments supported by evidence. Judges value creativity, depth of thought, and the ability to engage critically with the question.
15. How do I submit my essay?
Essays must be submitted through the Quintus Scholars online portal. Instructions will be sent to you once you register your interest.