SPJ/JEA High School Essay Contest

Location:

Virtual (online submission, U.S. students only)

Cost:

$5 per essay entry

Contest Date:

Essays must be submitted by February 19, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time

Application Deadlines:

Same as competition date, February 19, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. Central Time

Eligibility:

Open to all students enrolled in grades 9–12 in public, private or home schools in the United States. Only one essay per student per year; previous national winners are not eligible

Students write an original 300–500‑word essay (typed or legibly handwritten, double‑spaced) responding to a prompt on press freedom and journalism’s role in society. Essays are judged by media professionals and educators, with top prizes awarded as scholarships ($1,000 for first, $500 for second, $300 for third), and winners published on SPJ and JEA websites

Learn More

Please note: This information is compiled from publicly available sources and may change from year to year. Dates, locations, fees, and other details are subject to updates—please verify all information directly on the official competition website before applying.