Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contest
The Ayn Rand Institute Essay Contests are created by the Ayn Rand organization, in memory of this great novelist. The contests motivate students to engage deeply with Rand’s ideas by reflecting on her novels’ profound and influential themes. Students who participate in the contest must read their chosen book meticulously, tackle its intricate concepts, and extend the limits of their writing abilities. The aim is to foster in students a profound admiration for Rand’s literary works and pique their curiosity in the underlying philosophy.
Interested in the competition?
Competition Overview
Students from grade 8 to 12 from around the world
Eligibility
Free
Entry fee
Anthem: May 31, 2024
The Fountainhead: December 20, 2024
Atlas Shrugged: December 27, 2024
Submission deadline
Competition Details
1. Competition Progress
First, students will select the book according to their level of education and begin reading. Then, students will write an essay on the book depending on the essay question they have chosen to write on. Finally, you have to submit the essay for grading. Make sure that the information you provide in your application is correct and that your essay satisfies our requirements.
2. Contests
The competition has three contests: Anthem, The Fountainhead, and Atlas Shrugged, named after three of the novels she has published.
- Anthem: For students from grades 8th – 12th. Students will receive the top prize of $2,000.
- The Fountainhead: For students from grades 11th – 12th. Students will receive the annual grand prize of $25,000 (one per year). 1st place prize is $3,000 (two per year). 2nd place prize is $2,000 (3 per year). 3rd place prize is $1,000 (3 per year)
- Atlas Shrugged: For students in grade 12, College Undergraduates, and Graduate Students. Students will receive the grand prize of $25,000 (one per year). Students will receive the annual grand prize of $25,000 (one per year). 1st place prize is $3,000 (two per year). 2nd place prize is $2,000 (3 per year). 3rd place prize is $1,000 (3 per year)
3. Grading Standards
Essays are judged on four criteria: Clarity, Organization, Understanding, and On Topic. 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.
