Cultural Essay Contest Scholarship
To support high school students’ pursuit of cultural understanding and educational goals, the NWSE Cultural Essay Contest Scholarship offers U.S. high school students opportunities to explore how cultural exchange and activities affect nations and societies, as well as to share their unique perspectives on global issues.
Scholarship Details:
- Scholarship Awards: Three (3) $300 scholarships
- Eligibility: Open to all qualified U.S. students currently enrolled in high school
- Essay Length: 500-600 words (not AI generated)
- Submission Deadlines:
December 15, 2025
May 15, 2026
Essay Topics:
Participants may choose one of the following essay topics:
- Bridging Cultures: My Vision for a More Connected World
Write about the benefits of how cultural exchange fosters global understanding and cooperation between peoples of different nations. Share your vision for creating a more connected and harmonious world, and how Cultural Exchange contributes to that goal. - Lessons from Abroad: What Exchange Experiences can teach Individuals and Communities
Write about your ideal student exchange experience(s) and the important lessons you might gain from living in a host family and attending school in a different cultural environment might contribute to improving international relations.
Judging Criteria:
- Originality
- Clarity
- Relevance
- How your facts, evidence, and information support your ideas and statements.
- How well your essay addresses your chosen topic(s) and could inspire others.
Note: Each essay must be each student’s original work. Content that is detected to be AI-generated is disqualified.
Awards Notification:
Essay Scholarship Award Winners will be directly notified by email and subsequently announced on NWSE’s website and social media pages, including Instagram and Facebook.
Scholarship awards are issued by check, sent directly to the student/their parents/guardians. Awards may be used for expenses related to accomplishing the stated goals in their essays, e.g. school supplies, educational activities, and other related expenses.