Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics

Deadline

Overview

The Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay Contest challenges college students to analyze the urgent ethical issues confronting them in today’s complex world. Students are encouraged to write thought-provoking personal essays that raise questions, single out issues and are rational arguments for ethical action.

Students will submit a 3,000- to 4,000-word essay. The general topic asks students to "articulate with clarity an ethical issue that you have encountered and analyze what it has taught you about ethics and yourself," although any topic that explores the theme of ethics is acceptable.

The essay should be developed from the personal point of view of the student and may take the form of an analysis that is biographical, historical, literary, philosophical, psychological, sociological, or theological.

Prizes range from $500 to $5,000.

Application Process

To be eligible for this award, applicants must be registered undergraduate full-time juniors or seniors at accredited four-year colleges or universities in the United States.

Students entering the contest are required to have a Faculty Sponsor (the ONSA director will suffice) review and electronically verify their essay. Application requirements are listed in detail on the foundation's website.