Academic WorldQuest (AWQ) tests high school students' knowledge of current affairs, international politics, geography, economics, history, and world cultures.
Each winter, local World Affairs Councils across the USA hold AWQ competitions among high schools in their area. The local champions are then invited to the national contest in April in Washington, D.C., to vie for the title of national champions. Participants gain leadership experience, press exposure, and strengthened connections with their World Affairs Council affiliate. Additionally, 1st- 3rd place schools at the national competition receive trophies and are awarded prizes.
High school students and teachers wishing to participate should contact the Council in their area to enter the competition when school starts in the fall.
Competition Process
Four-person teams compete by answering multiple-choice questions divided into ten unique and engaging thematic categories.Judging Criteria
Contestants must be currently enrolled in a U.S. high school and be sponsored by a local World Affairs Council to enter local competitions. Each winning local team must commit to attending the national competition held in the spring in Washington, DC.Participate
Website: https://worldaffairscouncils.org/what-we-do/academic-worldquest/
Managing Organization: The World Affairs Councils of America
Eligibility:
Currently-enrolled U.S. high school students
Currently-enrolled U.S. high school students
Registration Dates
September 4, 2026
12:01am PDT
Registration Opens
September 4, 2026
12:01am PDT