Ayn Rand "Atlas Shrugged" Essay Contest

Ayn Rand Institute

The Atlas Shrugged novel essay contest is for students with a passion for reading and writing. Contestants must choose a prompt and write an 800-1,600 word essay in which they analyze and make an argument about an aspect or plot point of Atlas Shrugged, a popular classic novel by Ayn Rand. The first-place winner will get $10,000, 3 winners will get second-place and $2,500 each, and 5 winners will get third-place and $500 each. 25 finalists will receive $100 each and 50 semi-finalists will get $25 each. There are no restrictions on how winners spend the money.

Open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students worldwide

Atlas Shrugged is a heroic mystery novel with uplifting philosophical themes, positively inspiring millions. It is full of larger-than-life heroes such as industrialists, scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, inventors, and thinkers. It grapples with timeless, fundamental issues of human existence.