Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025

Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025: Take Part in the World’s Oldest Youth Writing Contest

The Commonwealth Essay Competition, officially known as the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC), is the world’s oldest international writing competition for young people, established in 1883. Each year, it brings together thousands of young voices from across the Commonwealth nations, offering a unique platform for creative expression and cross-cultural dialogue.

This prestigious competition promotes creativity, critical thinking, and cultural diversity, while encouraging young people to share their perspectives on global issues through the power of words.

Key Information – 2025 Edition

• Host Country: United Kingdom

• Organised by: Royal Commonwealth Society

• Official Language: English

• Deadline: May 23, 2025

• Eligibility: Young people under the age of 19 from Commonwealth member countries and associated territories

Why Participate?

The Commonwealth Essay Competition 2025 is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for young writers to:

• Voice their ideas on pressing global challenges

• Enhance their English writing skills

• Gain international exposure and be heard on a global stage

• Earn worldwide recognition for their writing talent

Awards and Prizes

Winners will enjoy a range of prestigious rewards, including:

• A fully-funded week in London, featuring:

  1. Cultural exchanges

  2. Educational activities

  3. Visits to iconic historical landmarks

• Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, awarded by ranking

• An official certificate of participation for all entrants

Age Categories

Rules, Eligibility & 2025 Topics

The Commonwealth Essay Competition is an exceptional chance for young people to showcase their creativity by exploring themes rooted in Commonwealth values. Below are the participation requirements, official rules, and writing prompts for both age categories.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, participants must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• Be a citizen or resident of a Commonwealth country

• Residents of Hong Kong, Ireland, and Zimbabwe are also eligible

• Individuals from non-Commonwealth countries may be eligible under special conditions

How to Enter the Commonwealth Essay Competition

Follow these simple steps to submit your entry:

1. Write your essay according to the official guidelines and 2025 topics.

2. Submit your essay via the official online platform.

3. Send the following information by email to: competitions@royalsociety.org:

• Full Name and Identification Number
• Name of your School or Institution
• Contact details of an adult referee (teacher or guardian, if required)
• Your current academic level

Why This Competition Matters

Participating in this competition offers numerous personal and academic benefits:

• Develop and refine your writing and language skills

• Share your ideas, culture, and values through a compelling topic

• Add a prestigious achievement to your academic portfolio

• Connect with young writers worldwide who share your passion

This competition is a rare chance to unleash your creativity, speak your truth, and become part of a global community of emerging writers, supported by the Royal Commonwealth Society.

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