The Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition covers a wide array of subjects, from historical and present issues to speculative future scenarios, encouraging critical thinking and exploration of thought-provoking and often controversial topics. Recent categories include:
- Animal Rights and Society
- Freedom and Accountability
- Technology and Ethics
- Space Exploration and Governance
- Biotechonology
- Economics and Globalization
- Public Health
- Laws and Society
In 2025, CCIR received over 13,000 submissions—more than three times the number received in 2024—from students representing over 50 countries worldwide. From these submissions, the jury panel selected approximately 1,300 Honourable Mentions, representing the top 10% of entries, and 33 award winners, representing the top 0.25% of submissions globally.
Building on this growth, the 2026 competition will be offered in two age-based categories:
- Junior Division (ages 11–13)
- Senior Division (ages 14–18)
These divisions are designed to ensure age-appropriate evaluation while maintaining the same high standards of intellectual rigour, originality, and clarity across the competition.
In 2026, we look forward to another highly competitive round of global participation and are excited to welcome award recipients to the University of Cambridge campus for the Award Ceremony and Dinner this summer.
We welcome talented high school students from diverse educational backgrounds and school systems worldwide to contribute their unique perspectives to the competition.
Location(s)
- Remote
Schedule
- Prompts are released on January 15
- Submissions close on May 10
Cost/Compensation
Eligibility Requirements
- Students ages 11-18 from all over the globe
Deadline
- May 10, 2026
Application or Entry Requirements
- Students must register a participant account and submit their essay before the deadline
Notifications of Decisions
- May 26, 2026
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
- Competition opens January 15, 2026
Have other questions?
The Cambridge Centre for International Research (CCIR) is an independent educational organization established by a group of Cambridge graduates with the mission to make academic research more accessible and impactful. Founded in 2019, CCIR collaborates with leading researchers and early-career academics to expand the reach of scholarly knowledge. Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, CCIR operates globally, aiming to empower students by fostering critical thinking and research skills across various disciplines. The organization is not affiliated with the University of Cambridge or its constituent colleges.
