# National Peace Essay Contest The National Peace Essay Contest, sponsored by the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), challenges high school students to research and write about international conflict resolution and peacebuilding. Winners receive scholarships and travel to Washington, D.C. ## What You'll Do - Research a specific international peace and security topic (new topic each year) - Write a 1,500-word analytical essay proposing solutions to global conflicts - Compete at state and national levels for scholarships - National winners travel to Washington, D.C. for the awards program ## Who Should Apply High school students (grades 9-12) in the United States. Strong writers with interest in international relations, conflict resolution, peace studies, or global affairs. ## Outcomes - State and national scholarships (up to $10,000 for first place) - Trip to Washington, D.C. for national finalists - Publication recognition from a prestigious U.S. government institution - Compelling addition to college applications demonstrating analytical writing