The Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay Contest invites undergraduate students to explore pressing ethical issues through analytical writing, honoring Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel's lifelong commitment to ethics and moral clarity. First Prize is $10,000; Second Prize is $5,000; Third Prize is $3,000; Honorable Mentions receive $1,000 each. All winners are invited to an all-expense-paid awards celebration in New York City. The contest is held annually, with submissions typically due in late January.
Open to registered full-time undergraduate students at accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States during the Spring 2026 semester. There are no restrictions on major, year of study, or citizenship. Students studying abroad during the Spring 2026 semester are eligible if registered as full-time students at their U.S. home school.
Students must submit an original essay of 2,500-3,500 words on a topic of ethical concern of their choice. Essays are submitted through the student's college or university; faculty sponsors are optional. Only one submission per student is allowed.
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