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National Russian Essay Contest (NREC)
Competition · American Councils / American Council of Teachers of Russian (ACTR)Running since 1981, this contest has students write a Russian-language essay in a single two-hour sitting each November, on a topic revealed at the start of the session. Categories separate Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced language learners from Native/Heritage speakers. A teacher who is an ACTR member submits one registration for all participating students.
Who can apply
GradesGrades 9–12
Min GPA—
ScopeNational
StatesAll states
FieldsRussian · World Language
Logistics
Cost to you$5 per student
Financial aidNot listed
StipendNot listed
FormatCommuter
WhereAdministered at the student's own school
AwardsWinners recognized by category (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Native Speaker)
Applying
OpensRegistration open now
DueTeacher registration and payment due October 23, 2026 (contest the week before Thanksgiving)
You submitYour Russian teacher must be an ACTR member and submits one registration form covering all participating students