FAQ
Everything you need to know about attending the GAC
About the Conference
Where can I find all the latest news?
Follow our social media accounts and keep an eye on our website for up-to-date information about the conference.
Logistics
When and where is the conference taking place?
The conference takes place from October 9 to October 11, 2026. It will be held at the Harvard Kennedy School and surrounding venues in the greater Boston and Cambridge area.
How can I get involved in the conference?
Students interested in volunteering or joining the 2026 Organizing Committee should contact info@germanamericanconference.org. Professionals seeking speaking, moderating, or financial contribution opportunities should also contact that email address.
How can my organization get involved in the conference?
Interested in becoming a supporter of the GAC? Please contact info@germanamericanconference.org
Do I need to be German to be a participant, moderator, or speaker at the German American Conference?
No. The conference welcomes any person regardless of nationality or origins. It functions as an inclusive platform for anyone interested in strengthening transatlantic relationships.
Ticketing
Do I have to be a student to attend the conference?
No. The conference welcomes any person regardless of age, affiliation, or profession. It serves as an inclusive platform for anyone interested in strengthening transatlantic relationships.
When do ticket sales for the GAC open?
Ticket sales have not been announced yet. Please keep an eye on our official website and social media channels for the latest updates. We will share all information there as soon as it becomes available.
Essay Competition
Are people of all nationalities allowed to participate in the essay competition?
Yes, the competition is open to applicants of all nationalities.
Do I need citations or a bibliography?
Citations are not strictly required for every essay, but they are strongly recommended when you refer to evidence, data, specific policies, or other sources. References should follow APA style.
Are essays evaluated within their tracks?
Yes, essays are evaluated within their selected track.
Do I need to be German or speak German to participate?
No, you do not need to be German or speak German. The competition is open to anyone interested in transatlantic cooperation, and essays must be submitted in English.
Does the problem have to be multilateral, or can it focus on the U.S. and one specific European country?
A bilateral problem between the U.S. and a specific European country is fine, as long as the essay clearly explains its relevance to transatlantic cooperation.
Can I ask experts about my topic and include their input in my essay?
Yes, you may speak with experts or people knowledgeable about your topic. If their input substantially informs your essay, you should cite or acknowledge it appropriately.
Can I submit in a track outside my academic background?
Yes — the tracks are thematic, not disciplinary.
Can I use AI tools?
AI tools are not banned, but their use is discouraged. If you use AI tools, you must disclose them as an auxiliary aid.
Can I still attend the GAC if I am not selected as one of the Top 50?
Yes, you can still attend the GAC even if you are not selected through the essay competition. You would need to register separately for the conference.
Is the essay competition only for students?
No, the competition is not limited to students. Anyone who meets the age requirement may apply.
Can I submit multiple essays for different event tracks?
No, each participant may submit only one essay.
My English isn't perfect. Should I still apply?
Yes — clear communication matters more than stylistic polish. Proofreading is allowed (disclose it).
Can I reuse an essay I've written elsewhere?
No — it must be written specifically for this competition and not submitted anywhere else.
What if my essay topic falls at the intersection of multiple tracks?
That is completely fine. Many strong ideas may overlap across tracks, but you should choose the one primary track that best fits the main focus of your essay.
Can you sponsor visas?
No — we are unfortunately unable to sponsor visas.
Does my essay need to use the official essay question as its research question?
Your essay does not need to use the exact wording as its own research question, but it should clearly respond to this year’s essay question.
Can I include tables, charts, or graphs?
Yes, you may include tables, charts, or graphs if they help communicate your argument clearly. They do not count toward the word limit. However, they should be used only when they genuinely support the argument.
How strict is the age requirement?
The age requirement is strictly enforced. Participants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of the conference. This means applicants must have been born between November 1991 and November 2008 (inclusive). Unfortunately, we cannot make exceptions to the age requirement.
How many winners will there be per track?
There will be 10 Transatlantic Thought Leaders per track, for a total of 50, and 3 finalists per track, for a total of 15 finalists.