Scholarship Undergraduate

Optimist International Essay Contest

Optimist International Foundation

Varies
Avg. Amount Awarded
337
Days
February 28 2026
Application Deadline
N/A
Renewable
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What you'll need:
  • Checkmark Other - Age/ID verification by Contest Chair
  • Checkmark Application Form
  • Checkmark Application Form May Be Submitted By Email
  • Checkmark Entry In A Contest
  • Checkmark Essay
Apply Now
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Optimist International Essay Contest
Apply Now
Save
Apply Now
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Description

The Optimist International Essay Contest aims to give young people room to develop their own views around a central idea. In addition to the opportunity for written expression, participants have the chance to win a college scholarship. The Optimist International Essay Contest is divided into two levels of competition: Club and District. Interested students should submit essays on the assigned topic to their local Optimist Club. The contest is open to contestants under the age of 19 as of October 1st of the current Optimist International contest year. Club winners may advance to the District contest to compete for a $2,500 college scholarship. Contestants must compose an original essay with limited guidance from others. Please visit the award's website for more information about the contest and the eligibility requirements.

Amount Details

$2,500
Low Amount Awarded

Eligibility Requirements

  • CheckmarkMust be an undergraduate student
  • CheckmarkMust attend a university, a four-year college, two-year college or a vocational-tech school
  • CheckmarkMust not be older than 19 years old
  • CheckmarkMust currently be a high school student
  • CheckmarkRestricted to: Canadian

How to Apply

What you'll need:

  • Checkmark Other - Age/ID verification by Contest Chair
  • Checkmark Application Form
  • Checkmark Application Form May Be Submitted By Email
  • Checkmark Entry In A Contest
  • Checkmark Essay
Contact programs@optimist.org
Tel: 314-371-6000
Fax: 314-371-6006 Address 4494 Lindell Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63108