Schuman Challenge 2027: EU-U.S. Academic Competition for Undergraduate Students
The Schuman Challenge is an annual academic competition organized by the Delegation of the European Union to the United States for undergraduate students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities. Participants conduct original research, develop policy recommendations on transatlantic issues, and defend their ideas before judges.
Overview
Organized by the Delegation of the European Union to the United States, the Schuman Challenge is an annual foreign affairs competition for undergraduate students enrolled at colleges and universities across the United States. The programme encourages students to examine major issues affecting transatlantic relations, conduct original research, and create actionable policy recommendations on a specific topic announced by the EU Delegation.
The competition is structured around multiple stages:
- University Registration: Institutions can enter one team consisting of three to four undergraduate students.
- Preliminary Round: Held live online where participating teams present their proposals to a panel of three judges.
- Semi-Final Round: Fifteen qualifying teams are invited to present in person at the EU Delegation's office in Washington, D.C., with a travel stipend and accommodation provided.
- Final Round: Three teams advance from the semi-finals to compete for the winning title in Washington, D.C.
Eligibility
- Open specifically to undergraduate students enrolled at colleges and universities in the United States.
- Teams must consist of three to four undergraduate students.
- Each participating institution may enter only one team.
Benefits
- Semi-finalist teams receive a travel stipend and accommodation for the in-person competition in Washington, D.C.
- The winning team receives a four-day Victory Tour of Brussels to visit EU institutions, engage with officials, and present their winning policy proposal.
- Participants gain valuable experience in original policy research, public speaking, critical thinking, teamwork, and international affairs.
How to Apply
Interested eligible students and universities can coordinate their team formation and access the registration portal through the official link below.
Access the Official Registration Portal
Deadline
Registration for the 2027 edition is currently open, but a specific closing deadline is not stated on the official page. Applicants should monitor the official website for updates.