Discover Canada Essay Contest

Next contest

October 12, 2026 to March 1, 2027

The organizers and jury thank every past participant and encourage secondary students to take part in the next Discover Canada Essay Contest.

Discover Canada—a place to celebrate diversity, gain a global perspective, and nurture a culture of peace.

Current status

The 2025–26 contest is closed

Entry information for the next contest will follow the announced 2026–27 schedule. Review the submission guide now so you can prepare your essay and supporting information early.

Review entry requirements

Benefits beyond the prize

Writing the essay is valuable in itself

Participation gives students a structured reason to research, reflect, and communicate what Canada could mean for their future.

Clarify your goals

Think carefully about your education, values, and future direction.

Express ideas clearly

Practice organizing evidence and presenting a compelling point of view.

Strengthen applications

Build an experience that can support future university applications.

Learn from feedback

Use thoughtful feedback to improve your writing and critical-thinking skills.

A little history

An international initiative since 2010

EduXperience Associates Canada—formerly M&S Consulting Education International Ltd.—has hosted annual Discover Canada and Education in Canada essay contests with Canadian language schools and colleges since 2010.

The initiative broadens cultural horizons and challenges students to demonstrate creativity, analysis, and critical thinking while learning about Canada. Its larger purpose is to encourage open-minded future leaders who want to build a safer, better world.

2,500+

students

participating countries

study-trip winners

Students have participated from Belarus, Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Malaysia, Moldova, Romania, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. Winners have earned study trips to Canada and improved their English at leading language schools and colleges.