Back to Programs
Royal Commonwealth Society

Royal Commonwealth Society

The Queen's Commonwealth Writing Competition

ClosedEnvironmentSustainabilityEssay Contest

About the Program

The world's oldest international schools' writing competition, delivered by the Royal Commonwealth Society since 1883. Formerly the Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition, it was reimagined for 2026 as The Queen's Commonwealth Writing Competition (QCWC) and now features a single age category (18 and under), a unified 1,000-word maximum, and expanded prompt areas including Sport, Storytelling, Sustainability, Shared Identity, and the Power of Language. The 2026 theme is "Common Ground: Better Together," inviting young writers to explore what unites communities across the Commonwealth and how collaboration drives progress. All entrants receive a certificate, and regional winners from each Commonwealth region (plus one overall winner) are invited to London for a week of cultural and literary activities culminating in an award ceremony. It provides life-changing opportunities for young people around the world.

The 2026 competition is closed and judging is underway.

Eligibility

Entries must be written in English and be the entrant's own work, free from plagiarism (including AI-generated content). Only one entry per participant is allowed. Entries must be a maximum of 1,000 words (no minimum). Special provisions are available for entrants with Special Educational Needs. Entrants must be 18 or under on the submission deadline date. As of 2026, the Senior/Junior age categories have been merged into a single category.

Eligible Countries

citizenship, residency permanent: All countries Open to nationals or residents of all Commonwealth countries and territories, as well as residents of Hong Kong, Ireland and Zimbabwe. Residents of non-Commonwealth countries with an operating RCS branch or affiliated/partner organisation are also eligible, but entries must be submitted via the local branch/organisation.

How to Apply

Entries can be submitted online via the platform as a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx) or in PDF format (.pdf). Offline entries can be sent to the Royal Commonwealth Society office in London. Personal details should not be included on the uploaded entry file.