About This Opportunity
The Avery Review Essay Prize 2025, hosted by Columbia University's Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation (GSAPP), invites undergraduate and master's students worldwide to submit critical essays on architecture, buildings, books, or related media. This prestigious no-fee competition offers top cash prizes totaling $10,000 and publication in the June 2025 issue of The Avery Review, boosting your portfolio for academic and professional growth in architecture, urban planning, or design fields.
Why Apply for Avery Review Essay Prize
Current bachelor's/master's students and recent graduates qualify, regardless of major, as long as the essay engages architecture thoughtfully. First prize awards $4,000 to one winner; three second-place winners receive $2,000 each, with all winners gaining global exposure through publication. Fully online—no travel needed—making it accessible for youth scholars seeking essay contests with prizes and recognition.
Eligibility and Key Requirements
Open to international applicants enrolled in or recently graduated (within the last year) from undergraduate/master's programs. Essays must be 3,000–4,500 words, double-spaced in a Word file, centered on an "object of review" like buildings, publications, or architectural media. Submit concise, stylish writing with 6-8 images in a separate PDF (under 3MB total); include student ID or graduation proof.
Prizes and Publication Benefits
First Place: $4,000 cash prize plus essay featured in The Avery Review June 2025 issue.
Second Place (x3): $2,000 each, with publication for standout submissions.
Additional perks include editorial feedback potential and credibility from a top Ivy League platform, ideal for architecture essay competitions 2025 targeting students.
How to Submit Your Avery Review Essay
Craft a comprehensive, modern essay avoiding images in the text file. Compile 6-8 relevant images into a separate PDF. Email both files plus proof of eligibility to editors@averyreview.com by January 31, 2025—no extensions. Editors select based on intellectual depth, originality, and alignment with architecture's urgent questions.
Application Tips for Success
Focus on testing your theoretical or political views through others' work for standout entries. Review past winners on averyreview.com for style inspiration. Prepare early to meet the word count and image limits precisely.