Competition Details

Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay Contest

Goes By: Elie Wisel

Be sure to consult the Fellowship Website for complete eligibility and competition requirements.

This is an essay contest which challenges students to analyze the urgent ethical issues confronting them in today's complex world.

Deadlines are typically at the end of December, but be sure to check the competition website for the current cycle’s deadline.

Registered full-time undergraduate students at accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States are eligible to apply.

Essays should be 3,000-4,000 words in length.

Example prompt from 2025 competition: What challenges awaken your conscience?

Is it the conflicts in American society? An international crisis?

Maybe a difficult choice you currently face or a hard decision you had to make?

Engage us. Enlighten us. Explore the ethics of any problem, question, or issue, whether close to home or in the world at large.

We are eager to learn from you.

First place receives $10,000, second place receives $5,000, third place receives $3,,000, and one honorable mention receives $1,000.

Last updated: July 30, 2025