# APA TOPSS High School Psychology Student Competition The APA TOPSS High School Psychology Student Competition is an annual virtual opportunity for high school students interested in psychology. Organized by the American Psychological Association’s Teachers of Psychology in Secondary Schools (TOPSS), this competition provides an engaging platform to explore key psychological concepts through essay writing or project creation. Designed for students in grades 9-12, this program aims to encourage deeper learning in STEM, specifically within the field of psychology, while fostering critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Best of all, it’s completely free to participate. ## Program Structure The competition is held annually and conducted entirely in a virtual format, allowing students across the United States to participate from their own schools or homes. Each year, students are tasked with responding to a specific essay prompt or completing a psychology-related project based on guidelines provided by APA TOPSS. While the exact timeline varies, the program typically involves a submission period during which students work independently or under the guidance of a teacher or mentor to produce their entry. Submissions are evaluated by APA TOPSS judges, who assess entries based on creativity, adherence to the prompt, depth of psychological knowledge, and quality of writing or project execution. Winners are announced after the judging process, and awards or recognition may be provided to the top participants. ## What Students Experience Participants in the APA TOPSS competition gain invaluable experience in applying psychological concepts to real-world questions or problems. Through essay writing or project development, students enhance their ability to conduct research, organize ideas, and present findings clearly and effectively. This program also provides an opportunity to deepen understanding of psychology as a STEM discipline, encouraging exploration of topics such as human behavior, cognitive processes, mental health, and more. While the competition does not include direct mentorship, students may receive guidance from psychology teachers or peers during the preparation process. By completing their submission, students build confidence in their academic abilities, improve their analytical and writing skills, and gain exposure to a professional organization like the American Psychological Association. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participation in the APA TOPSS High School Psychology Student Competition is an impressive addition to college applications, particularly for students interested in STEM fields or psychology-related majors. It demonstrates a commitment to academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and the ability to engage in independent work. Winning or earning recognition in the competition further highlights a student’s ability to excel in a national-level program, showcasing critical thinking, writing proficiency, and initiative to potential colleges. Even for those who do not win, the experience of completing a rigorous project or essay reflects a strong work ethic and dedication to learning. ## Eligibility The competition is open to high school students in grades 9-12 across the United States. There are no costs associated with participation, and students from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. While no prior psychology coursework is explicitly required, a basic understanding of psychological concepts or enthusiasm for the subject will be helpful when completing the essay or project. ## How to Participate To take part in the APA TOPSS High School Psychology Student Competition, students must first review the official prompt or project guidelines provided by the American Psychological Association (TOPSS). These materials are typically released prior to the submission period, which will include details on formatting, requirements, and deadlines. Submissions are made virtually through the APA TOPSS platform, and students should ensure their entries meet all specified criteria. Teachers, counselors, or psychology club advisors may also support students in preparing their submissions. For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the competition, including deadlines and submission instructions, visit the APA TOPSS website at [APA TOPSS](https://www.apa.org/ed/precollege/topss).