
High school students are invited to put their global knowledge to the test in the annual Academic WorldQuest competition, a flagship program of the World Affairs Councils of America. The 2022 Kansas City–area tournament was held in person on Saturday, March 5, 12:00 PM- 4:00 PM at the KU Edwards Campus.
Interested in participating next year? Please fill out the 2023 AWQ Interest Form.
What is Academic WorldQuest?
Each year since 2006, the IRC has offered high school students the chance to showcase their knowledge of world affairs, geography, history, and world events. Area high schools may register one or more teams of four students plus a faculty sponsor, and multiple teams from the same school may share a sponsor. Participation is entirely cost-free for schools. The winning team will receive an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for the students and their sponsor to participate in the national Academic WorldQuest competition in late April.
Why should schools participate?
Academic WorldQuest offers numerous benefits for students and teachers, including:
- Exploring global topics and issues that are compatible with and enhance the study of many existing curricula and AP courses
- Preparing for future international studies and careers in the global economy
- Interacting with area students and teachers who are interested in global affairs
- Meeting representatives from area companies and universities and hear about future international opportunities
- Winning valuable prizes, including gift certificates for many participants and an expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., for the winning team
There is no cost for schools to register! Schools may register one or more teams of four students plus a faculty sponsor, and multiple teams from the same school may share a sponsor. In addition, entire classes are welcome to use the study materials and explore competition topics together.
What do participants say about their experience?
“I had a great time, learning about many issues and countries in the world while meeting people who have personal involvement and investment in solving these issues. This experience intensified my passion for international relations.” – Kyle from Washburn Rural High School
“I thought it was interesting learning about different perspectives regarding subjects like Turkey and Great Decisions. I think it is important for students to learn and understand about other people different from them. I feel as Americans we live in a bubble.” – Ali from Washburn Rural High School
“Thanks to the IRC for putting on a fun and exciting competition! All of my students had a blast. We look forward to next year!” – Ms. Czarnecki from Bishop Seabury Academy
2022 tournament Prep Materials:
Competition Sponsors 2022
Thank you for the generous support from Global Sponsor, University of Kansas and University of Saint Mary. For more information about sponsor packages for the next year, which will support our programming and increase your visibility and impact, please contact Matthew Hughes.

Global Sponsors
Past Winners
Congratulations to the following schools for their admirable performance in the Academic WorldQuest competition:
2022 · Bishop Seabury Academy
2021 · Bishop Seabury Academy and Shawnee Mission East High School
2020 · Bishop Seabury Academy
2019 · Shawnee Mission East High School
2018 · Blue Valley North High School
2017 · Washburn Rural High School
2016 · Shawnee Mission South High School
2015 · Rockhurst High School
2014 · Rockhurst High School
2013 · Shawnee Mission North High School
2012 · Shawnee Mission East High School
2011 · Shawnee Mission South High School
2010 · Olathe South High School
2009 · Shawnee Mission Center for International Studies
2008 · Shawnee Mission East High School
2007 · Shawnee Mission East High School
2006 · Rockhurst High School