
Berggruen Prize Essay Competition
Opportunity type: Essay competition
For: Writers, philosophers, thinkers, and researchers
Deadline: 31/07/2025
Rewards: Up to $50,000 + publication
Location Eligibility: Worldwide
About this opportunity
The Berggruen Prize Essay Competition invites submissions that explore significant philosophical questions with the aim of fostering fresh, cross-cultural thinking. The competition complements the prestigious Berggruen Prize for Philosophy & Culture and is inspired by the tradition of public essay contests that have historically launched major intellectual contributions. Essays must be original, clearly argued, and intellectually engaging. Submissions should be in English or Chinese, and creative writing formats (fiction, poetry, drama) are not accepted.
Rewards
- $50,000 USD for the best essay in English
- $50,000 USD for the best essay in Chinese
- If multiple winners are selected in one language category, the prize will be split equally
- Publication of winning essays
- Invitation to award ceremony
Eligibility
- Open to individual thinkers, scholars, or writers with a demonstrable impact on public thought
- Submissions must be original and unpublished
- Maximum length: 10,000 words (English) or 15,000 characters (Chinese)
- One submission per person/team per year
- Co-authored essays allowed
- No generative AI use allowed except for proofreading or as explicitly disclosed supporting content
Entry Fee
No entry fee
How to Apply
Apply using the link: Berggruen Prize Essay Competition
All questions regarding this award should be sent to essay@berggruen.org
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