Minds Underground Competitions

Minds Underground Essay Competition 2026 – Questions Out Soon!

The 2026 essay questions will be released in November. To be among the first to receive them, subscribe to our mailing list (scroll down) and get notified as soon as they go live.

The deadline for entries will be 3 April 2026, giving students plenty of time to research, plan, and craft their essays.

This year’s competition will once again span the Humanities, Social Sciences, and STEM, inviting students aged 14–18 to engage critically with thought-provoking, real-world questions. Winners will receive publication opportunities and certificates of achievement. Stay tuned for updates - the 2026 questions promise to be our most exciting yet!

📍 View the full 2025 results here: Results Page.

Young Minds Prize

A chance for our younger students (aged 14 & under) to explore beyond the curriculum in answer to contemporary questions and debates.

An abstract image featuring an atom, pens, trophies, a clock, and books floating in space, symbolizing the creative process and preparation for an essay competition

Senior Prizes

Hone writing skills, explore your interests beyond the school curriculum and gain a great talking-point on your university application. Competitions are aimed at Year 12, but open to younger applicants.