This page provides additional information about the spring 2026 essay contest with Tech Policy Press, as detailed on this page.
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Essay Contest FAQs
Who is eligible to submit an essay?
Only currently enrolled, degree‑seeking Harvard students are eligible. Unfortunately, cross‑registered students from other institutions and Harvard fellows are not eligible to submit.
Do I have to write on one of the listed research priority topics?
Yes. The contest topics are based on the Berkman Klein Center’s research priorities, key areas of concern identified by Tech Policy Press, and themes agreed upon specifically for this collaboration. Essays must meaningfully align with one or more of these topics. Format and length are outlined in the application.
May I submit an essay with a co-author?
Essays may be submitted with up to two writers.
Can I use AI to write my essay?
You may use AI tools for brainstorming and support, but we strongly encourage you to spend at least 15 minutes brainstorming on your own before using any AI tools. You (and any co‑authors) are fully responsible for the ideas, arguments, wording, and references in your essay, and you should not submit an essay that is mostly or entirely generated by AI. In the application, you will be asked to briefly describe (in 1–2 sentences) how and to what extent you used AI in your writing process.
I had something come up last minute, may I submit my essay after the deadline?
Unfortunately, no. We cannot accept late submissions for any reason. If you experience technical issues on the day of the deadline, you may email your application responses and essay to studentengagement@cyber.harvard.edu. To be considered, your email must be received by March 22, 2026 @ 11:59 PM (ET).
I emailed a question and haven’t heard back. What should I expect?
Questions about the application will be answered up until the Friday before the submission deadline. We are generally not able to respond to inquiries over the weekend, so please reach out early. The inbox is monitored by multiple staff members, and you can expect a reply as soon as possible within that window.
If my essay is not selected, may I submit it directly to Tech Policy Press outside of the contest?
Yes. You may submit to the Tech Policy Press but must align to their guidelines which are slightly different from the student essay contest.
If my essay is selected, when will it be published?
This depends on the individual editorial process with Tech Policy Press. Please see the timeline that outlines key dates.
Is there any compensation associated with the contest?
There is no monetary prize offered from BKC or Tech Policy Press.
