Outreach Department
202.626.8800
nrlc@nrlc.org

Essay Contest

Proving courage, conviction and solid use of core messaging

The National Right to Life Essay Contest equips and empowers the future leaders of the pro-life community. We’re proud to recognize our 2024 contest winners who answered the question, Why are you pro-life?, and thank the teachers who have supported you.

2024 Senior Division Winners

First Place
Rebecca R.

Second Place
Selah H.

Third Place
Catherine J.

2024 Junior Division Winners

First Place
Kateri B.

Second Place
Estelle H.

Third Place
Sadie T.

Watch this page for more information about the 2025 Pro-Life Essay Contest!

Want to know more?

What grade levels are represented by the junior and senior contest divisions?

The junior essay contest invites students in grades 7-9 to participate. The senior essay contest is open to students in grades 10-12.

Are there prizes for winning the contest?

Yes, National Right to Life is pleased to recognize exemplary work with these prizes in both divisions:
First place, $400
Second place, $300
Third place, $200

What are the essay guidelines?

Essays must be 300-500 words in length, double spaced, page numbered and typed using no smaller than a 12-point font. Essays should not include artwork or photos or be placed in a plastic cover. You must cite all sources.

Essays must include a cover sheet with word count and your full name, full mailing address, phone number, grade level, date of birth and parent name(s).

How should an essay be submitted?

Essays must be mailed. Digital submissions are accepted only under special circumstances. The date range for submitting an essay, the final date for postmarking and the person and address at National Right to Life for mailing are announced each year.

Contestant and parent or guardian must confirm that the essay is original, but not copyrighted, and agree to allow National Right to Life to reprint the essay if it wins.

What are the judging criteria?

Essays are randomly judged on originality, content and accuracy. They may be grouped by region (West, Midwest, South and East) depending on the number of entries. Announcement of winners is made as soon as possible but does depend on the number of entries received.