St Gallen Global Essay Competition Summit 2026 in Switzerland | Fully Funded

St. Gallen Global Essay Competition Program 2026 offers an exciting fully funded opportunity for talented students worldwide to showcase their ideas on a global stage. Hosted in Switzerland, this prestigious competition invites international master’s, PhD, graduate, and postgraduate students to submit original essays for a chance to attend the renowned St. Gallen Symposium. Organized by the International Students’ Committee (ISC), the event brings emerging young leaders together with global decision-makers for high-level discussions in one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

The 55th St. Gallen Symposium will take place from 6–7 May 2026, and selected winners will receive a fully funded trip to Switzerland, including access to all program activities. There is no application fee, and applicants from any academic field are welcome to apply, making this competition accessible to students across the globe. If you are eager to contribute meaningful ideas and experience an international leadership platform, this is your chance to stand out.

Benefits

The Selected Students for the St. Gallen Global Essay Competition in Switzerland will receive:

• Travel Tickets
• Accommodation
• Food

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants from all over the world are eligible to apply.
• Enrolled in a graduate or postgraduate program (Master’s degree or higher).
• Students from any field of study can apply.

Required Documents

• Copy of passport or other identification
• Official university document confirming enrollment.
• Contribution File.

Topic Question

Disruption in Tech + Politics + Demography: What happens when they collide? Pick a case where at least two of these forces meet, and propose a bold idea to maximize the benefits while minimizing the risks over the long term.

Essay Requirements

• Essay (max. 2,100 words).
• Must be in English.
• All Essays will be tested for plagiarism.
• Only individual submissions are allowed.

How to Apply?

• Make sure you are eligible before applying. You must be a current graduate or postgraduate student (master’s level or higher) and born in 1996 or later. Students from all countries and academic backgrounds can apply.
• Read the essay guidelines carefully. Your essay must be in English, no longer than 2,100 words, and directly address the competition question. Do not include your name or any personal details inside the essay file.
• Prepare all required documents. You will need a valid passport or ID, proof of enrolment from your university, and your final essay file without any personal identifiers.
• Write and refine your essay. Focus on strong arguments, originality, and proper citations. If you use any tools or external support, mention them transparently in a short directory at the end.
• Go to the official application portal and complete the online form. Upload your essay and required documents, review everything for accuracy, and submit before the final deadline.
• After submission, wait for the review process to be completed. If your essay is chosen among the top entries, you will be invited to attend the St. Gallen Symposium as one of the selected participants.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The St. Gallen Global Essay Competition Summit 2026 is an essay contest for eligible graduate and postgraduate students to submit original essays by 1 February 2026, addressing a thematic question and competing for prize money and a place at the 55th St. Gallen Symposium.