Deadline: November 14, 2025
The Pulitzer Center Local Letters for Global Change Contest 2025 is now open for applications! This exciting global writing competition invites students to raise their voices by addressing urgent world issues directly to their local elected representatives.
Through this contest, students learn how to connect global challenges to their communities while advocating for real solutions. Below are the full details of the opportunity, eligibility requirements, guidelines, prizes, and how to apply.
About the Pulitzer Center Local Letters for Global Change Contest 2025
The Pulitzer Center invites K-12 students worldwide to submit a one-page persuasive letter to a local elected representative.
The letter should:
- Identify a global issue that matters to you.
- Explain why it is important globally, using evidence from a Pulitzer Center-supported story (alongside other credible sources).
- Show why the issue is relevant in your local community or to you personally.
- Explain why you are writing to that specific representative and how it aligns with their responsibilities.
- Suggest specific solutions or actions you want them to take, backed with evidence.
Submissions are accepted in English or Spanish.
Focus Areas
Participants must choose one of the following categories for their letters:
- Climate and Environment
- Global Health
- Human Rights
- Information and Artificial Intelligence
- Peace and Conflict
Eligibility
- Open to all current K-12 students worldwide.
- Letters must be written in English or Spanish.
Prizes
Winners and finalists will be recognised for their outstanding letters:
- First-Place Winner (per category):
- US $300 for classroom global community engagement (awarded to your teacher).
- Publication of your letter, photo, and biography on the Pulitzer Center website.
- Finalists (up to four per category):
- US $75 for classroom global community engagement (awarded to your teacher).
- Publication of your letter, photo, and biography on the Pulitzer Center website.
- All Entrants: Invitation to participate in a virtual town hall event in November 2025, to share solutions and connect with peers globally.
Notification: Winners and finalists will be notified by email between December 2025 and January 2026.
How to Apply
To enter the Pulitzer Center Local Letters for Global Change Contest 2025:
- Select a relevant Pulitzer Center-supported story using the “Suggested Stories” tab.
- Write your one-page persuasive letter addressing one of the focus areas.
- Submit your letter through the official entry form. You can copy-paste the letter directly into the form.
- Provide your personal details and your teacher’s contact information.
- After submission, you are encouraged to also email or mail your letter directly to the decision-maker.
Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 14 November 2025
- Notification of Winners: December 2025 – January 2026
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline | 14 November 2025 |
| Eligibility | K-12 students globally, English or Spanish submissions |
| Focus Areas | Climate, Health, Human Rights, AI/Information, Peace & Conflict |
| Requirements | One-page letter to local representative, citing Pulitzer story + solutions |
| Prizes | $300 (winners) / $75 (finalists) for classroom; publication; town hall |
| Notification | December 2025 – January 2026 via email |
Final Note
The Pulitzer Center Local Letters for Global Change Contest 2025 is a powerful opportunity for students to develop advocacy skills, connect local action to global issues, and inspire change. Don’t miss the chance to have your voice heard on matters that affect the world and your community.
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Read more about the programme
Need support with your application?
Contact us for proposal drafting, refining, and review.
