Submitting Your Essay

Make sure that all pieces are in order before you submit your completed essay.

Cover Page and Verification

Students are required to submit a cover page that includes their contact information and information about their high school. The student is also responsible for getting a teacher or advisor to sign a statement verifying that the student attends the school indicated and, to the best of the adult's knowledge, has written the essay being submitted (home-schooled students may ask a youth group leader, parent, or other adult to be a sponsor). APA will verify the endorsements of all semifinalists prior to making the final award determination.

Download the cover page and entry form (pdf)

Submitting Your Essay

APA encourages students to submit their application online by using an Internet connection at a home, school, or library. Please e-mail your submissions to essay@planning.org with the words "High School Essay Contest" in the subject line. Students must submit the cover page and essay as one attachment. Please title the document with your first and last name. If you do not have e-mail access, you may send your submission to: American Planning Association, Education Department, Attn: Essay Contest, 122 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 1600, Chicago, IL 60603. Mailed submissions must be postmarked on or before January 10, 2009. Electronic submissions must be received by January 15, 2009, at 11:59 p.m. EST.