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• Submissions must be original and unpublished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