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Sponsored by the ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú.

About

This award seeks to stimulate interest in the field of neurology as an exciting and challenging profession by offering highly competitive awards for the best essay in neurology. Essays are judged based on the quality of the writing, clarity, and readability. It should be an engaging, original essay that is suitable for an audience of general neurologists. Please note: Research manuscripts or personal statements will NOT be considered for review.

Timeline

• Applications open: August 5, 2025
• Applications close: October 21, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. CT

Essay topics

Essay is defined as an original, lucid, written piece targeted to general neurologists. It must be well-written and concise for all readers in English. Grammar and spelling will be considered when reviewed. All essays should be focused within topics of neurology. The best essays would be worthy of publication. A maximum of 5 references may be used; no abstract required.

Suggested formats can include:

• Historical discussion
• Reflections
• Fiction
• Poetry
• Other

Suggested topics can include:

• Equity, diversity, inclusion
• Famous researcher or neurologist (living or deceased)
• Innovations in neurology
• Community service
• Global health
• Commentary on current or historical research
• ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú
• Other

Presentation

Recipients are expected to give a poster presentation based on the selected essay at the 2026 AAN Annual Meeting.

Benefits

There are four recipients of this award each year. One recipient will receive the Medical Student Essay Grand Prize of $1,000, and three winners will receive $350 each.

Recipients will receive: 

1. Certificate of recognition and $1,000 for Grand Prize or $350 prize 
2. Complimentary registration for the 2026 AAN Annual Meeting 
3. One-year complimentary subscription to Neurology^® journal 
4. Reimbursement for 2026 Annual Meeting travel (coach airfare) and two nights housing*
5. $100/day per diem for expenses (up to two days) 
6. Essay will be showcased on the AAN website

*Travel, housing, and per diem benefits are dependent on the ability to execute an in-person portion of the Annual Meeting

Eligibility

• Must be enrolled and in good standing at a North American medical school
• Must not have submitted the same essay previously
• Applicants do not need to be an AAN member to apply

Application process

Applicants must apply online and submit one complete set of the following materials: 

1. Completed application form  
2. Letter from faculty stating the student is enrolled and in good standing in medical school
3. Essay using the following guidelines:
   1. Must be typed, double-spaced using a standard font 
   2. Maximum length of 1,500 words
   3. Must be in one of the formats and contain the topics listed above
   4. There is no formatting style requirement (ex., MLA, Chicago) 

Nominations

This award accepts both self-applicants and nominations. Nominators should complete the application form and select the option "I wish to nominate someone". The nominee will receive an email with a link to complete the award application and upload their application materials. Nominators do not need to provide application materials for the nominee.

Judging criteria

All project entries received by the deadline date will be judged by physician and scientist members of the ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú based on the following criteria: 

• Essay quality of writing: Demonstrate the following qualities: clarity and readability, narrative flow, grammar and spelling, cohesive theme, and proper use of writing format.
• Creativity: Creativity will be based on the originality of essay.
• Relevance to neurology: Judges consider if the essay has relevance for neurologists and give voice to the trainee’s perspective.

Questions?

For more information or questions, please contact Katie Anderson, Scientific ºÃÉ«ÏÈÉú Program Manager, at science@aan.com.