In accord with established tradition, the Religious Studies department holds a graduate student essay contest each spring. The contest is open to all graduate students, regardless of departmental affiliation. Three prizes will be given out this year: 1st prize $300, 2nd prize $150, and 3rd prize $50.

Papers submitted for consideration need not have been written for departmental courses provided they deal in some direct way with issues pertinent to the study of religion. Papers will be judged by the graduate committee based on the following criteria: clarity, focus, development of the subject or problem, use of evidence and sources, originality and creativity. Each student may submit one essay.

To apply: Graduate papers should be 15-25 double spaced pages. Make sure your name, phone number, email address, and class standing are clearly indicated on the front or title page only. Please number your pages. 

Deadline for receipt of all materials is March 6th.

Applications will be processed through IU Scholarships. Please apply to IUB-Religious Studies Student Fund Spring and signal in your application that you are asking to be considered for the graduate student essay contest award.  Attach your paper as a .docx or .pdf file.