The Harvard International Review (HIR), a distinguished quarterly magazine published by Harvard University, invites high school students from around the world to participate in the HIR Academic Writing Contest 2025.
Founded in 1979, the Harvard International Review has become one of the world’s most respected platforms for insight into international affairs. Each issue features thought-provoking analysis and commentary from global leaders, scholars, and policymakers. Over the years, the magazine has featured contributions from 43 Presidents and Prime Ministers, 4 Secretaries-General, 4 Nobel Economics laureates, and 7 Nobel Peace Prize winners.
Through this contest, the HIR seeks to inspire the next generation of thinkers and writers to explore pressing global issues and contribute to international dialogue.
Students in countries outside of the United States (grades 9-12) are welcome to submit.
About the Contest
The Harvard International Review Academic Writing Contest was launched in 2020 to recognize and encourage outstanding high school writing on international affairs.
Participants are invited to submit a short-form analytical article exploring one of the year’s chosen global themes. The contest offers students a unique opportunity to engage critically with real-world issues and present original, research-backed perspectives.
Contest Format
Each submission will be carefully read and scored by editors and reviewers from the Harvard International Review.
Selected finalists will be invited to participate in HIR Defense Day, a virtual event where students will:
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Deliver a 15-minute presentation of their article, and
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Participate in an oral defense session with a panel of HIR judges.
This event allows participants to articulate their arguments, respond to feedback, and gain deeper insights into policy writing and academic discourse.
Submission Guidelines
Participants must follow the official submission guide provided by HIR.
Themes for 2025:
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Global Commons and Stewardship of Shared Resources
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Emerging Powers in a Changing Global Order
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Resilient Cities and Urban Futures
Students must clearly note their chosen theme at the top of their article.
Content:
Articles should examine a topic in international affairs and may cover areas such as:
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Agriculture
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Business and Trade
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Cybersecurity
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Defense and Diplomacy
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Education and Employment
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Energy and Environment
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Finance and Economy
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Public Health
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Science and Technology
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Space Policy
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Transportation and Infrastructure
Submissions should adopt a global perspective, not limited to the United States.
Length:
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Minimum: 800 words
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Maximum: 1,200 words
(Diagrams and tables are not counted in the word limit.)
Writing Style:
Articles must be well-researched, balanced, and analytically sound. Participants are encouraged to explore underrepresented global topics, presenting nuanced, evidence-based insights supported by credible sources.
AI Policy:
The use of ChatGPT or any AI writing tools is strictly prohibited. Submissions will be screened through multiple AI detection systems, and articles flagged for AI generation will be disqualified.
Evaluation Criteria
Judges will assess submissions based on:
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Depth of analysis and originality of perspective
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Quality of research and evidence
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Clarity, organization, and coherence of writing
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Balance, nuance, and understanding of global context
Exceptional essays will demonstrate critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a strong grasp of international issues.
Why Participate
The HIR Academic Writing Contest is a prestigious opportunity for students passionate about world affairs, policy, and global challenges. Participants gain:
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Experience in academic writing and research
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Exposure to real-world international policy issues
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Recognition from a globally respected publication
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The chance to engage with the Harvard International Review editorial team
How to Apply
Students can find detailed submission instructions and deadlines on the official Harvard International Review website. Early preparation and topic selection are strongly encouraged to ensure high-quality, original submissions.
Contest Dates
There are three distinct submission cycles for the 2025 Contest.
Please note that contestants are requested to register and pay before becoming eligible to submit their articles prior to the submission deadline.
Admissions are done on a rolling basis! Capacity is limited.
Spring 2025
Article Submission Deadline: May 31, 2025
HIR Defense Day: June 29, 2025
Summer 2025
Article Submission Deadline: August 31, 2025
HIR Defense Day: October 5, 2025
Fall 2025/ Winter 2025
Article Submission Deadline: January 2, 2026
HIR Defense Day: February 5, 2026
Contest Prizes
All submissions will receive a score from the Harvard International Review based on the Evaluation Rubric described in the Submission Guide. Contestants that receive a passing score without qualifying for a HIR Defense Day will receive individual prizes. Finalists will be eligible for the following Gold/Silver/Bronze medals based on their scores and performance in the HIR Defense Day.
This blog aims to provide uptodate information on various competitions for Indian students 
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