The Berkeley Economic Review High School Essay Contest invites high school students to explore economic topics through essay writing. For Spring 2026, contestants choose one of two prompts: (1) the economics of artificial intelligence, examining how AI adoption reshapes labor demand across skill levels and affects wage inequality, with a proposed policy response; or (2) education and the rising cost of college as a contributor to income inequality. Essays must be supported by evidence from credible sources and include a works cited page. Use of AI writing tools is not permitted. Winning essays will be published in the Berkeley Economic Review magazine, Equilibrium, and featured on the organization's website and social media.
Berkeley Economic Review
High School Essay Contest
ClosedEconomicsWritingEssay Contest
About the Program
Eligibility
Essays must be grounded in evidence from credible sources like economic journals and historical data and include a works cited page. Essays should not exceed 1,000 words, excluding the works cited page and figures. Use 12-point Times New Roman font with 1-inch margins. Submissions must be uploaded as a PDF or Word (.docx) file. Use of AI writing tools is not permitted. Eligible if you have not yet begun your undergraduate university studies. High school students.
Eligible Countries
Worldwide🌎
How to Apply
Submissions are accepted via the Google Form link provided on the contest page.