Anthem High School Essay Contest
Scholarship Sponsored by Ayn Rand Institute
Anthem — Ayn Rand’s stark novella about a future in which the very concept of “I” has vanished — is the focus of an annual student essay competition. Quick headline: Win Up to $3,000 (see prize breakdown below) Who can enter - Open to students in grades 8–12. What the contest is - A yearly essay competition centered on Anthem. Each year there is a single submission window. Important deadline - Submit your entry by April 30, 2026, 11:59 PM Pacific Time. How to enter - Log in to the contest dashboard and answer the assigned prompts. Each response must address the prompts provided there. - Essays should show a clear grasp of Anthem’s philosophical themes and demonstrate thoughtful analysis. Judging and selection - Entries are evaluated once a year. Winners are chosen based on understanding of the text, clarity of expression, and originality of thought. Prize information - First Place: $2,000 - Second Place: $1,000 - Third Place: $500 - Total cash awards across the three places: $3,500 Benefits beyond the cash - College application enhancement: recognition from this contest can strengthen your application materials. - Professional recognition: winners receive acknowledgement from a globally respected institution associated with the contest. Ready to compete? - Prepare your essays in response to the prompts on the contest dashboard and submit before the deadline. Good work will be rewarded with cash prizes, official recognition, and the chance to showcase mastery of Ayn Rand’s Anthem.
Go to Scholarship Application