This round takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete. The 2027 Qualifying Round deadline is Sunday, February 7, 2027. Submissions must be uploaded here by 11:59 p.m. EST. This portion of the competition may be completed as an individual if you do not have a teammate. If you qualify to move on into the next phase of the competition, the Washington Media Scholars Foundation will match you with a partner to form a team.

If you have any trouble submitting your document,  email directly to info@mediascholars.org.