American University has opened applications for the Human Rights Essay Award 2027, a legal writing competition focused on “Democracy, Human Rights and Participation.” The award is aimed at applicants with legal training or experience in international human rights law, and the top entries can earn full tuition for the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law in Washington, D.C.
Key facts
- The submission deadline is February 3, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Washington, D.C. time.
- Applicants must hold a law degree such as a J.D., LL.B., or equivalent.
- Winning essays receive full tuition for the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law.
- Entries must relate directly to the 2027 theme, “Democracy, Human Rights and Participation.”
- The award may also lead to publication in the American University International Law Review.
What does this mean for students and legal researchers?
The competition is most relevant for law graduates, early-career lawyers, and researchers working in international human rights law. The prize is not a cash grant: it covers tuition for the Program of Advanced Studies, while travel, housing, and living costs are not included. That means applicants considering the award should plan separately for the practical costs of studying in Washington, D.C.
Applicants must submit an unpublished legal essay written by one person, in English or Spanish, and the essay must stay within the competition’s format rules. The essay must not exceed 35 pages including footnotes, must use Bluebook citation, and must be submitted in Word format through the online form. Entries sent by email are not accepted.
- Who can apply: people with a law degree or equivalent and an interest or experience in international human rights law.
- What to submit: one unpublished legal essay plus a CV.
- When to submit: by February 3, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Washington, D.C. time.
- What to avoid: adding identifying information inside the essay or missing the formatting rules.
What is the 2027 essay topic?
The 2027 topic is “Democracy, Human Rights and Participation.” Applicants may choose any subject under that theme, but the essay must directly match the topic or it will be disqualified. The materials also say the academy considers international human rights law to include international humanitarian law and international criminal law.
How much funding does the award provide?
Winners receive a full tuition scholarship to the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, either for the Diploma or Certificate of Attendance option. The award does not cover travel, housing, or per diem living expenses. According to the materials, the best articles in English and Spanish may also be considered for publication in the American University International Law Review.
Who is eligible to enter?
Eligible applicants must have a law degree, including a J.D., LL.B., or equivalent, and must show interest or experience in international human rights law. Past winners are not eligible to apply again. Each applicant may submit only one essay, in either English or Spanish.
Frequently asked questions
When is the deadline for the Human Rights Essay Award 2027?
The deadline is February 3, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Washington, D.C. time. Essays submitted after that time will not be considered.
What do winners receive?
Winners receive a full tuition scholarship for the Program of Advanced Studies on Human Rights and Humanitarian Law in Washington, D.C. Travel, housing, and per diem living expenses are not included.
