Test Your Global Knowledge. Represent West Michigan. Compete in Washington, D.C.
The Academic WorldQuest (AWQ) program brings together high school students from across the country to explore international affairs, current events, global issues, and more through a fun and challenging team competition. In partnership with the World Affairs Councils of America (WACA), the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan (WACWM) hosts and funds the regional competition, giving local students the opportunity to develop global awareness, critical thinking skills, and leadership experience while connecting with peers who share an interest in the world beyond our borders.
What Is Academic WorldQuest?
AWQ is a nationwide competition of the World Affairs Councils of America that engages more than 3,000 students annually. Teams of four students study a series of global topics and compete in local World Affairs Council competitions for the opportunity to advance to the national championship in Washington, D.C. Winning teams will compete in D.C. April 12-13, 2027.
Students who win locally earn the chance to represent West Michigan on the national stage and compete for national recognition among the country’s top students.
Why Participate?
Develop Real-World Knowledge
Academic WorldQuest encourages students to engage deeply with international issues that influence our communities, careers, and future. Topics complement many high school curricula, including social studies, international studies, government, history, and AP courses.
Build Leadership Skills
Participation gives students meaningful leadership opportunities that strengthen college applications, résumés, and future career readiness.
Connect with a Global Community
Students become part of a network of globally minded peers, educators, and community leaders through the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan and the national World Affairs Councils network.
Represent West Michigan
Winning teams advance to Washington, D.C., where they compete nationally and have opportunities to visit embassies, universities, think tanks, and other globally focused institutions.
The Road to D.C. – Key Timelines/Dates
Summer/ Fall – Contact the local Council expressing interest (registration below):
Teachers, students, and schools begin forming teams and learning about Academic WorldQuest opportunities. Schools often recruit students involved in National Honor Society, Model United Nations, debate, forensics, and other academic organizations, though all students are welcome.
Fall/Winter – Build Your Team and Start Studying
Teams of four students prepare using official AWQ study resources. Competition questions are based on materials distributed through the national program. Registered teams will receive study materials from the World Affairs Councils of America in September/October, as well as logistical communications from the local Council sharing more information on the local competition leading up to it.
Winter/Spring – Compete Locally
The World Affairs Council of Western Michigan hosts the local AWQ competition, bringing together students from schools across the region. The competition will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, in downtown Grand Rapids, on Thursday, January 28th, 2027. And alternative date in case of inclement weather has been scheduled for Thursday, February 4th.
April 12-13 2027 – National Competition in Washington, D.C.
The winning local team advances to Washington, D.C. to compete against top teams from around the country and experience the nation’s capital through a global affairs lens. Costs to compete in D.C. (including travel and lodging) are covered by the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan, and the local Council will facilitate travel arrangements and offer logistical support.
Register Your School or Team
Interested in bringing Academic WorldQuest to your students?
Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, student, or parent, we’d love to help you get involved.
Contact the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan to learn more about:
- Team registration
- Competition dates
- Study resources
- Sponsorship opportunities
- Volunteer opportunities
Join the Academic WorldQuest family and help prepare West Michigan students to lead in a globally connected world.
Why the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan?
For decades, the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan has connected our community with global experts, international perspectives, and educational opportunities that help people better understand the world around them. Our mission is to empower people and organizations in West Michigan to engage thoughtfully in the world. Academic WorldQuest is one of the most impactful ways we engage the next generation of globally aware leaders.
With gratitude to our national partners at the World Affairs Councils of America, and our local partners at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation.
