Congressional Essay Contest

Group of teenagers stand for a photo in front of the White House

About the Contest

Started in 1977, the Congressional Essay Contest is an annual writing competition run by NSCDA corporate societies across the United States. The contest is open to students in public schools, private schools, and home schools. High school freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors submit essays for a chance to win a scholarship for the Workshop Foundation’s renowned Congressional Seminar in Washington, D.C. The 2026 Congressional Seminar is scheduled for June 22-26.

Winners of the contest will receive full tuition and support for travel to our nation’s capital for the Congressional Seminar, a highly interactive, civics-focused workshop. The scholarship also provides university campus housing and meals, access to world class museums, tours, and more!

2026-2027 Essay Topic

The Declaration of Independence famously asserts that governments derive their just powers “from the consent of the governed.” How did the Founders address the issue of consent through representation in the Constitution, and do you see the need for any changes today?

Qualifications

To participate in the Congressional Essay Contest, each applicant must:

Be a high school freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior*
Be 16 years of age or older by the start of the seminar the summer after the application deadline
Write a compelling 750-word essay

Note: While children and grandchildren of active NSCDA members are encouraged to submit essays and may participate in the Seminar as Legacy Scholars at their family’s expense, they are not eligible for scholarships awarded to Congressional Essay Contest winners.

Legacy Scholar Information