The Ayn Rand Institute’s Fountainhead Essay Contest offers a unique platform for middle and high school students to engage deeply with literature and philosophy. Entrants read Ayn Rand’s modern classic The Fountainhead and respond to a focused essay prompt that tests interpretation, argumentation, and written expression. The submission deadline is October 31, 2025.
What is The Fountainhead?
The Fountainhead follows the uncompromising architect Howard Roark, whose integrity and creative independence place him at odds with society. The novel explores individuality, integrity, and the creative spirit—rich material for thoughtful essays that connect literary analysis to philosophical ideas.
Who Can Enter?
The contest is open worldwide to students aged 13 and older (middle and high school). Participation is free, and the competition helps build strong analytical and persuasive writing skills useful for academics and college applications.
How to Participate
- Read The Fountainhead carefully, noting themes, character motives, and important passages.
- Choose the contest prompt applicable to the round and plan your argument.
- Write your essay in English (800–1,600 words, double-spaced).
- Submit online via the Ayn Rand Institute’s application portal by October 31, 2025.
- Await results—entries go through three grading stages; winners are announced about three to four months after the deadline.
Judging Criteria
Essays are judged on:
- Clarity of expression and ideas
- Organization and logical structure
- Understanding of the novel’s themes and characters
Guidelines & Best Practices
- Essays must be in English and fall between 800–1,600 words, double-spaced.
- Each contest round features a unique prompt designed to provoke deeper thinking.
- Work started early and multiple revisions improve quality—outline, draft, revise, then proofread.
- Plagiarism or rule violations lead to disqualification.
Prizes
The contest awards substantial cash prizes, with a total pool exceeding Rs. 25 Lakh (approx. $31,000):
- Grand Prize: Rs. 20 Lakh+ (~$25,000)
- 1st Prize: Rs. 2.5 Lakh+ (~$3,000)
- 2nd Prize: Rs. 1.6 Lakh+ (~$2,000)
- 3rd Prize: Rs. 83k+ (~$1,000)
Top essays from each season may advance to compete for the annual grand prize.
Why Enter?
The Fountainhead Essay Contest cultivates close reading, critical thinking, and polished writing—skills that enhance academic profiles and scholarship applications. Winners gain recognition, cash awards, and a significant credential for college applications. Prepare early, seek feedback from teachers, and polish your draft for the best chance at success.
If you’re a student aged 13 or older who loves literature and ideas, don’t miss the Fountainhead Essay Contest 2025. Read The Fountainhead, craft a compelling essay, and submit by October 31, 2025 through the Ayn Rand Institute’s portal, for more details and register CLICK HERE
