LATEST UPDATE ▪️ COMPETITION INFORMATION
2026 Competition Deadline Announced!
SPJ/JEA High School Essay Contest
The SPJ/JEA High School Essay Contest is a joint initiative of the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and the Journalism Education Association (JEA). The contest is designed to promote the importance of journalism and free press.
Interested in the competition?
Competition Overview
All students enrolled in grades 9-12 in U.S. public, private, and home schools within the United States
Eligibility
$10
Entry fee
December 10, 2025
Submission open
February 22, 2026
Submission deadline
📌 Note: Aralia is not the organizer of this competition. For official rules, deadlines, and updates, please refer directly to the competition organizer. Aralia provides listings and information about competitions for student reference. Aralia is an online education platform offering competition preparation classes to students worldwide.
Competition Details
1. Competition Topic
Why is misinformation or disinformation (fake news) so easily spread, and how can journalists aim to counter it?
2. Competition Format
The essay should be 300-500 words. Entries may be typed or handwritten, but must be double-spaced. Students must submit original work.
3. Recognition and Awards
- First Place – $1,000 scholarship
- Second Place – $500 scholarship
- Third Place – $300 scholarship
Winners will be announced in May. Winning essays will also be posted on SPJ/JEA official websites.
