The 55th St. Gallen Global Essay Competition 2026 is now open to young thinkers across the world. Organized by the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland, in partnership with the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers Community, this prestigious international competition invites students, graduates, and young professionals to submit original essays addressing pressing global issues.
The St. Gallen Global Essay Competition is widely regarded as one of the most respected platforms for emerging global leaders, offering participants the opportunity to showcase intellectual depth, innovative thinking, and solution-oriented perspectives on real-world challenges.
Program Summary
- Host: University of St. Gallen
- Partners: World Economic Forum – Global Shapers Community
- Category: Essay Competition | International Writing Contest
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Eligible Participants: Students | Graduates | Young Professionals
- Reward: Cash Prizes | Global Recognition | Publication Opportunities
- Deadline: February 2026 (Expected)
Program Details
The St. Gallen Global Essay Competition is an annual international challenge designed to stimulate critical thinking and intellectual leadership among young people worldwide.
Every year, the competition releases a carefully curated theme reflecting urgent global concerns, encouraging participants to present fresh insights, bold ideas, and original solutions. Over the years, the competition has attracted thousands of entries from across continents, with past winners going on to excel in business leadership, academia, public policy, and social innovation.
Competition Theme for 2026
The 2026 edition focuses on issues at the intersection of leadership, innovation, and global change, with the exact wording released in the official brief. Previous themes have explored:
- Leadership in turbulent and uncertain times
- The future of democracy and global citizenship
- Global digital transformation
- Climate change and sustainability leadership
The theme challenges participants to critically examine how the world can navigate complex global challenges and how young leaders can contribute to lasting and meaningful change.
Who Can Participate
The competition is open to a diverse group of young thinkers, including:
- Undergraduate students
- Master’s students
- Recent graduates (within the specified age limit)
- Young professionals with an interest in global affairs
There are no nationality restrictions, and applicants from Nigeria, Africa, Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Oceania are encouraged to apply.
Essay Requirements
- Original and unpublished work only
- Essay length typically between 1,200 – 2,100 words
- Written in English language
- Directly aligned with the annual competition theme
- Clearly structured with introduction, body, and conclusion
- Proper citation of sources where applicable
Format
- Submission in PDF or Word document
- Standard academic formatting
- 12-point font, double-spaced
Cover Sheet
Each submission must include a cover page stating:
- Full name
- Email address and contact details
- University or school (if applicable)
- Country of residence
Prizes & Awards
Outstanding participants in the St. Gallen Global Essay Competition stand a chance to receive:
- 1st Prize: Cash award for the best overall essay
- 2nd & 3rd Prizes: Additional cash rewards
- Honorary Mentions: Certificates of recognition
- Publication Opportunities: Selected essays may be featured on St. Gallen platforms or partner outlets
Prize amounts may vary annually, but the competition is well known for offering significant recognition and international exposure.
Key Dates & Deadlines
While applicants are advised to confirm exact dates on the official platform, the expected timeline includes:
- Call for Essays Opens: Late 2025
- Submission Deadline: February 2026
- Winners Announced: Mid to late 2026
Early preparation and submission are strongly encouraged, as successful participants often begin drafting months ahead of the deadline.
How to Apply
To apply for the 55th St. Gallen Global Essay Competition 2026:
- Carefully read the official competition theme and guidelines
- Write a well-researched, original essay responding to the theme
- Prepare the required cover page with accurate details
- Submit your essay through the official application channel before the deadline
- Await evaluation by the judging panel, made up of academics and global thought leaders
To begin application, click HERE
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