Annual International Refugee Law Student Writing Competition – International Law Students Association

We are no longer accepting applications to the American Society of International Law’s International Refugee Law Interest Group (IRLIG)’s annual International Refugee Law Student Writing Competition. Details about the next edition will be announced in Fall 2026.

31 July 2026	Anticipated Release of Official Jessup Rules National Rules Supplements will be posted as they become available.
3 August 2026	Team Registration Opens
15 September 2026	Anticipated Release of the Jessup Problem
7 October 2026	Anticipated Launch of Basic Materials All Basic Materials will be posted to the ILSA’s website, and materials will be added from time to time over the course of the Jessup season. Teams are encouraged to continue checking the Basic Materials webpage for updates.
17 October 2026	Deadline for Requests from Teams for Corrections and Clarifications to the Jessup Problem Requests must be submitted through the online form found on your Team’s Home Page.
6 November 2026	Deadline for Eligibility Inquiries This is the last day on which individuals may request the Executive Office’s special permission to compete under Official Rule 2.4.
17 November 2026	Anticipated Release Date of Corrections and Clarifications to the Jessup Problem
20 November 2026	Deadline for Registration, Payment, and Submission of Team Roster This is the last day on which teams may register as well as submit the names of their team members and advisors. In addition, all teams must have submitted payment by this date or risk disqualification.
12 January 2027	Deadline for Submission of Memorials If a Team fails to submit its Applicant and Respondent Memorials by this day, the Team will be disqualified from the Competition. Memorials must be submitted to the Executive Office in accordance with the Official Rules. A National Supplement to the Official Rules may impose additional submission requirements. It is the responsibility of teams to understand the submission requirements of the Official Rules and of their National Rules Supplement, if any, which are posted on ILSA’s website.
January – March 2027	National & Friendly Rounds Teams from jurisdictions with more than one team registered must take part in Qualifying Rounds. National and Friendly Rounds may take place virtually or in-person. Advancing Teams will go on to compete in the White & Case International Rounds.