Christophers Poster Contest for High School Students
Scholarship Sponsored by Christophers
Intro
High school students living in the United States (grades 9–12) are invited to participate in the 36th Annual High School Poster Contest hosted by The Christophers. Create a poster that interprets the theme “You Can Make a Difference.”
Eligibility
- Open only to students who reside in the United States.
- Entrants must be in grades 9, 10, 11, or 12.
- Each poster must be the sole work of one student.
Prizes
- First Prize: $1,000
- Second Prize: $500
- Third Prize: $250
- Up to five Honorable Mentions: $100 each
Key Dates
- Entry deadline: entries must be postmarked by February 12, 2026.
- Winner announcement: May 5, 2026.
How to Enter
- Digital posters: upload a .jpg file using the online submission form.
- Handmade posters (drawn, painted, or otherwise created by hand): mail to
High School Poster Contest
THE CHRISTOPHERS
264 W 40th Street, Suite 603
New York, NY 10018
- If you have questions, contact Youth Coordinator Sarah E. Holinski at s.holinski@christophers.org.
Poster Requirements and Rules
- Every poster must include the statement “You can make a difference” and visually communicate the idea that one person can help change the world for the better.
- Posters must measure 16 x 20 inches (this dimension should include any border or mat).
- If you use charcoal, pastels, or glitter, protect the poster by laminating it or covering it in clear plastic.
- Do not include glass, tacks, staples, or any sharp or breakable items with your entry.
- Use flat shipping methods to protect the poster during transit.
- The following must be written on the back of the poster: student’s name, mailing address, e-mail, phone number, school name, school address, teacher’s name, and student’s grade.
- The design and any photographs or artwork used must be entirely original. Posters that incorporate stock images or AI-generated imagery are ineligible and will be disqualified. The Christophers will take steps to verify the authenticity of submitted work.
- All entries become the property of The Christophers and cannot be returned.
Judging and Prize Conditions
- Posters will be judged on overall impact, how effectively the theme is conveyed, originality, and artistic merit. Judges’ decisions are final.
- Winners who are U.S. citizens or residents will need to provide a Social Security Number before receiving any cash prize totaling more than $600.
Other
- Follow The Christophers on Instagram: @thechristophersnyc
About The Christophers
Founded in 1945, The Christophers is a nonprofit organization that promotes two central ideas through media and outreach: “There’s nobody like you” and “You can make a difference.” Their message, inspired by service to others, is offered to people of all faiths and none. The organization’s motto: “It’s better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.”
Note
- Digitally created posters should be submitted online as a .jpg. Handcrafted entries must be mailed and postmarked by February 12, 2026.