Academic WorldQuest

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. Teams compete by answering ten multiple choice questions in ten different rounds. Each round has questions about topics that are determined by the World Affairs Council of America. All of the information that students need to answer competition questions is available  for download in the Official Student Study Guide above.

Each area high schools may register one or more teams of four students, plus a faculty sponsor. Multiple teams from the same school may share a sponsor. Participation is entirely cost-free for schools and 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. The Official Student Study Guide is used for both local and national Academic WorldQuest competitions.

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.

Official 2026 Topics: