Academic WorldQuest - International Relations Council

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 2023 Kansas City–area tournament will be held on Saturday, April 1, from 12:00 PM to 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.

2023 Tournament Prep Materials:

Official Study Guide

Download the 2023 Academic WorldQuest Study Guide

Official Topics 2023

Academic WorldQuest 2023 Topics:

Securing the Future of the World’s Wildlife
The Arctic Council: Frozen Cooperation
Atrocity Prevention and Accountability
Combating Global Food Insecurity
Economic Sanctions – A Double-Edged Sword
Great Decisions
- Changing Demographics
- Outer Space
- Climate Change
- Russia and the U.S.
- Myanmar and ASEAN
- Quad Alliance
- Drug Policy in Latin America
- Industrial Policy
- Biden’s Agenda
Country in Focus: Ethiopia
The Future of Supply Chains
Battle of the Century: Autocracy vs. Democracy
Current Events

Teacher's Guide to Academic WorldQuest

Download the 2023 Academic WorldQuest Teachers Guide

Congratulations to THE 2022 AWQ Winner BIshop Seabury Academy

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

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.