About
Write about Ayn Rand's novel Atlas Shrugged for a chance to win up to $25,000 in scholarship prizes. The contest is free to enter and is open to all students in 9th grade through graduate school.
How it Works
From seasonal rounds to the annual grand prize, here's how our essay contest works.
You may compete in any or all of these entry rounds.
The first-place essay from each season will advance to compete for the annual grand prize.
Opportunity to secure a grand prize of $22,000.
Awards
Win Up To $25,000.
Compete for substantial cash prizes and earn recognition for your exceptional writing about Atlas Shrugged.
Application information
Understanding what our judges look for in winning essays:
- Clarity
- Organization
- Understanding
- On topic
Essays are judged on whether the student is able to justify and argue for his or her view, not on whether the Institute agrees with the view the student expresses.
Our graders look for writing that is clear, articulate, and logically organized. Essays should stay on topic, address all parts of the selected prompt, and interrelate the ideas and events in the novel.
Winning essays must demonstrate an outstanding grasp of the philosophic meaning of Atlas Shrugged.
Entry Requirements
Follow these steps to submit your essay for the Atlas Shrugged essay contest
1. Register for the Contest: Get immediate access to the book and essay prompts.
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Click 'Get Started'
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Verify your email address
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Complete the registration form
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Access book and essay prompts instantly
2. Read the Book
3. Write Your Essays
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Respond to each of the assigned prompts in the contest dashboard.
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Written in English only
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Is original and unpublished work
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Includes page citations for quoted material
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Is between the stated word limits
4. Submit Your Entry
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Submit your essay by April 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM PT.
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One submission per student per entry round
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Essays must be your own original work
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Stay tuned for grading updates and interview invitations
