Field
Humanities
Publishing in the Yale Review of International Studies (YRIS) High School Essay Contest is a valuable opportunity for high school students to showcase their analytical writing on a global stage.
As YRIS highlights strong argumentation, interdisciplinary thinking, and clarity in discussing international affairs, the contest can feel competitive and fast-paced. This guide breaks the process down simply, helping you understand what YRIS looks for and how to prepare a compelling submission.
What Kind of Work Can You Submit?
The contest requires a single essay responding to the annual prompt on international affairs. Essays must be under 1,500 words and should present a clear argument supported by evidence, analysis, and engagement with global debates. While the prompt changes each year, YRIS consistently looks for writing that is focused, well-structured, and grounded in credible sources.
Eligibility
Students currently enrolled in high school (grades 9–12) from any country are eligible to submit. Essays must be original, unpublished, and not under review elsewhere. Submissions should reflect the student’s independent voice, even if teachers or mentors have provided general guidance.
Prizes
The contest awards monetary prizes to the top submissions:
1st Place: $250
2nd Place: $150
3rd Place: $100
All three winning essays are published on the YRIS website.
Submission Process
Students must submit their essays through official YRIS submission form here. The form typically asks for personal information, school details, the essay title, and the completed manuscript. Submissions are reviewed by the YRIS editorial board on a rolling basis until the deadline.
Review Timeline
The annual prompt is released in April on the YRIS website and Instagram page. The submission deadline usually falls in June. For the current edition, the application deadline is June 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
Essays go through editorial screening and evaluation, after which the winners are selected and notified. Results are announced publicly on the YRIS website.
RISE Tips for Getting Accepted
Based on award-winning international studies essays reviewed by RISE, competitive submissions typically demonstrate:
Direct and thoughtful engagement with the annual prompt
A clear structure moving logically from introduction to argument to conclusion
Interdisciplinary framing that connects political, ethical, economic, scientific, or cultural dimensions
Integration of multiple perspectives rather than relying on a single lens
Acknowledgment of counterarguments or limitations
Use of credible sources—academic work, policy documents, or reputable media—with consistent citations
Strong analytical reasoning supported by evidence
A discussion of broader implications for global policy, diplomacy, ethics, or international cooperation
Polished, concise writing free from grammatical errors
Strict adherence to the word limit and formatting rules
Accessible language that explains complex ideas clearly
A distinct voice that offers fresh insight or a unique framing of the issue
Sample Papers
Past winning essays are available on the YRIS website here; they offer helpful models for structure, tone, and analytical depth.
RISE Research Program
If you’re a high school student aiming for competitive writing opportunities in international affairs, the RISE Research Program offers personalised, one-on-one mentorship with scholars from leading universities worldwide. Students develop independent, publication-ready research projects while strengthening academic writing, critical thinking, and global awareness. The program is flexible, accessible globally, and open year-round. To learn more about eligibility, pricing, and next steps, visit the RISE Research website and take the next step in your academic journey.
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