Harvard Political Review Global Policy Case Competition 2026

The Harvard Political Review Global Policy Case Competition asks students to evaluate an existing policy or propose a researched policy solution to a real problem. Unlike a narrative essay contest, the current format emphasizes evidence, data, policy analysis and defensible recommendations. Individuals or teams submit an 800–1,200 word policy brief; the top eight high-school teams advance to a live Zoom defense with presentation and Q&A. Participants also receive access to a live HPR training session, and top global work is featured on HPR’s competition page.

High-school category: grades 9–12. Students may compete individually or in teams of up to five, normally from the same school; multi-school exceptions may be requested. The preliminary round is explicitly open to registered teams worldwide.

Register through the official competition portal and submit an 800–1,200 word policy analysis using the stated format and Associated Press referencing style. Entrants choose either evaluation of an existing policy or a proposed policy solution. Finalists deliver a 3-minute presentation followed by a 5-minute live Q&A defense on Zoom.