If you’re a high school student with a passion for economics, participating in an economics competition is a great way to enhance your critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.

Many competitions also offer prestigious awards and opportunities for academic growth.

Below, we’ve detailed 15 top economics competitions for high school students, outlining what each involves, who can participate, and what’s at stake.

1. The National Economics Challenge (NEC) Description: Organized by the Council for Economic Education, the NEC is one of the most recognized economics competitions in the U.

S.

Students compete in teams to demonstrate their knowledge of microeconomics, macroeconomics, international economics, and current events.

The competition has regional, state, and national rounds.

Eligibility: Open to U.

S. high school students in teams of 3–4, with divisions based on experience level (beginner or advanced).

Prize/Award: Scholarships for national winners, trophies, and an all-expenses-paid trip to New York City for national finalists.

2. The International Economics Olympiad (IEO) Description: The IEO brings together students from around the world to compete in economics, finance, and business-related challenges.

Participants take rigorous individual tests and engage in team case studies focusing on real-world economic issues.

Eligibility: High school students selected through their country’s national qualifying competition.

Prize/Award: Gold, silver, and bronze medals for top scorers; certificates of participation; networking opportunities with global peers.

3. The European Economics Olympiad (EEO) Description: Similar to the IEO, the EEO tests students’ understanding of economics, financial literacy, and critical thinking.

It emphasizes creative problem-solving through case studies and examinations.

Eligibility: High school students from European countries.

Participants are selected through national competitions.

Prize/Award: Certificates of excellence, medals, and recognition at the European level.

4. Wharton Global High School Investment Competition Description: Hosted by the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, this competition is designed for students interested in financial markets and investment strategies.

Teams create and manage a mock investment portfolio, guided by their own goals and strategies.

Eligibility: Open to high school students globally, working in teams of 4–7 members.

Prize/Award: Top teams are invited to present at Wharton’s campus in Philadelphia, with awards for performance and creativity. https://youtu. be/32Uq1qNSDz4?si=iB4qmrbMfPdGGzHw STEM Summer Programs for High Schoolers

5. The Harvard International Economics Essay Contest Description: Hosted by the Harvard Undergraduate Economics Association, this annual essay contest encourages students to think critically about pressing economic issues.

Topics often include policy, global economics, and theoretical concepts.

Eligibility: Open to high school students worldwide, regardless of prior experience in economics.

Prize/Award: Cash prizes for the top essays, certificates of recognition, and opportunities to gain feedback from Harvard students.

6. The John Locke Institute Economics Essay Competition Description: This prestigious competition challenges students to write essays on complex economic questions, encouraging them to develop clear and compelling arguments.

Past topics have explored themes such as globalization, inequality, and innovation.

Eligibility: Students under the age of 1

9. Essays must be individually written.

Prize/Award: Cash prizes up to £500, certificates of achievement, and winners are invited to the John Locke Awards Ceremony in Oxford.

7. Economics for Leaders (EFL) Program Description: The EFL program combines economics education with leadership training, culminating in competitions where participants apply their knowledge to solve policy issues.

The program also includes workshops and expert-led discussions.

Eligibility: Primarily for high school juniors and seniors in the U.

S. , with some international slots available.

Prize/Award: Certificates for program completion; scholarships for outstanding participants.

Ultimate List of Economics Competitions for High Schoolers 2024

8. EconOlympiad Description: The EconOlympiad emphasizes practical applications of microeconomics and macroeconomics concepts, using case studies, exams, and team challenges.

Eligibility: Open to high school students in the U.

S.

Prize/Award: Winners receive trophies, medals, and the chance to represent the U.

S. at international events.

9. American Economic Association (AEA) Essay Contest Description: Sponsored by the AEA, this competition asks students to write essays exploring historical and contemporary economic issues, focusing on their significance and impact on society.

Eligibility: Open to U.

S. high school students, typically junior and senior grades.

Prize/Award: Cash prizes for top essays, along with recognition and publication in the AEA newsletter. 1

0. Cambridge Economics Essay Competition Description: Hosted by Trinity College Cambridge, this competition asks students to tackle thought-provoking economic questions.

Essays are evaluated on originality, depth of research, and argument clarity.

Eligibility: Open to high school students worldwide.

Prize/Award: Winners receive certificates, book prizes, and detailed feedback on their essays.

Unlock Your Potential with ScienceFair. io!

Ready to elevate your science fair project?

ScienceFair. io is your ultimate resource for success, offering a comprehensive platform tailored for high and middle school students.

Our tools simplify your project, from brainstorming innovative ideas to presenting your final work with confidence.

Schedule a consultation call to connect with one of our team members and create a personalized plan tailored to your needs.

What We Offer: AI Discovery Engine: Generate unique research ideas based on thousands of successful projects.

Step-by-Step Research Guide: Navigate the research process with easy-to-follow steps that promote creativity and critical thinking.

Tuner Features: Optimize your project title and abstract to ensure your work stands out to judges.

AI Judging Tool: Prepare for the judging experience with simulated Q&A sessions to anticipate and address potential weaknesses.

Compete Page: Get insights for competing in the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF) tailored to your region.

Expert Coaching: Receive personalized mentorship from past winners through our A-Z Science Fair Masterclass and coaching calls.

Ready to Transform Your Science Fair Journey?

Explore the powerful tools at ScienceFair. io today!

Sign up now to unlock your potential and start your successful scientific adventure.

Don’t wait—your path to victory starts here!.