Optimist International Essay Contest

Optimist International Foundation · National

An annual essay competition on a civics/character theme, run through local Optimist Clubs with progression to district-level judging. Open to any student under 19 who has not yet completed high school. The 2026-27 topic is 'Finding My Voice in a World Full of Noise.' District-level winners receive scholarships funded by Optimist International Foundations; students enter through their nearest participating Optimist Club.

Eligibility

GradesGrades 9–12

Min GPA—

ScopeNational

StatesAll states

DemographicsMust be under age 19 as of October 1 of the contest year and not have completed high school or its equivalent. There is no entry fee; students must enter through a local participating Optimist Club.

Applying

Award$2.5k

DueSet locally by clubs, typically concluding by early February; contact a local Optimist Club

EssayRequired

Rec. lettersNot required

RenewableNo

Awards/yr—

District-level scholarship is $2,500. Club-level and any international-level amounts are not published and may vary by district.

Visit official site ↗