If you’re a young student with a passion for big ideas, critical thinking, and making your voice heard on a global stage, the 2026 Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition is your opportunity to shine.
Organized by the Cambridge Centre for International Research (CCIR), this prestigious annual contest invites students from around the world to engage with some of the most pressing and thought-provoking questions of our time. From the ethics of artificial intelligence to the future of democracy, Re:think challenges participants to move beyond simple answers and craft compelling, well-researched arguments.
With the 2026 competition now officially open, here is everything you need to know, including exciting new changes, this year’s essay prompts, and key dates to add to your calendar.
What’s New for 2026?
This year, the competition has expanded to welcome even more young thinkers. The most significant update is the introduction of a brand-new division:
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Junior Division: For students aged 11 to 13
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Senior Division: For students aged 14 to 18 (who have not yet begun undergraduate studies)
This change ensures that essays are evaluated fairly and age-appropriately, allowing younger students to develop their reasoning skills while maintaining the rigorous standards the competition is known for.
There’s also a very special reason to aim for a top spot this year. The 2026 Awards Ceremony will feature a keynote speech from a true giant of science: Dr. Barry C. Barish, the 2017 Nobel Prize Laureate in Physics. Imagine having the chance to hear from—and perhaps even meet—a Nobel winner at the historic King’s College, Cambridge.
The 2026 Essay Prompts
Choose one prompt from your division that sparks your curiosity. Each is designed to encourage deep thinking and original analysis.
Key Dates for Your Diary
Planning ahead is crucial. Mark these important deadlines:
Key Requirements & How to Enter
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Cost: The competition is completely free to enter.
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Format: Essays must be no more than 2,000 words (this does not include footnotes or the bibliography).
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Citation: You must cite all your sources using the MLA 8th edition format.
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Originality: Your work must be your own. The use of AI writing assistants and plagiarism are strictly prohibited. All submissions will be checked.
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Submission: Submit your essay as a PDF through the official CCIR portal. Be sure to remove your name and any personal information from the document to ensure a fair, anonymous review.
What Can You Win?
Prizes are awarded separately for each division.
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Gold, Silver, Bronze Awards: 30 global winners (10 per medal) receive cash prizes, scholarships to CCIR Academy, and an invitation to the Cambridge awards ceremony.
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Special Prizes (Logos, Pathos, Ethos): Three additional winners are recognized for Best Argument, Best Writing, and Best Research, each receiving a cash prize and a scholarship.
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Honourable Mention: Awarded to the top 10% of participants. These students also receive an invitation to the ceremony in Cambridge.
Ready to Re:think?
The Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition is more than just a contest. It’s a chance to develop university-level skills, earn international recognition, and join a global community of young leaders. Whether you’re in the Junior or Senior Division, this is your opportunity to explore an idea you’re passionate about and share your perspective with the world.
Start planning your essay today. We can’t wait to read what you have to say.
