16 Finalists Selected for the 'EF Global Speech Contest 2026' for Middle and High School Students
EF Education First Japan has announced the 16 finalists for the 'EF Global Speech Contest 2026,' targeting middle and high school students across Japan. The preliminary round theme was 'Describe yourself in 3 hashtags.' The final competition, featuring impromptu speeches, will be held on June 7th to determine the winners in each category.
📋 Article Processing Timeline
- 📰 Published: May 26, 2026 at 19:00
- 🔍 Collected: May 26, 2026 at 10:31
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 27, 2026 at 10:00 (23h 28m after Collected)
## 16 Finalists Announced
EF Education First Japan, a global educational institution operating in over 110 countries, announced on May 15, 2026, the 16 finalists for the 'EF Global Speech Contest 2026' (EFGSC2026). Four finalists were selected for each of the four categories: Middle School (General/Advanced) and High School (General/Advanced). The final round is scheduled for June 7, 2026, at the EF Tokyo Headquarters.
## Preliminary Theme: '3 Hashtags'
The theme for the preliminaries was 'Describe yourself in 3 hashtags.' While familiar to digital-native students, it required deep thinking and practical English skills as there are no 'model answers.' The judging prioritized whether the participants spoke with passion using their own words.
## Strict Judging and the Path to the Finals
Judges evaluated participants based on five criteria: Content, Language, Delivery, Creativity, and Passion. In the finals, the 16 selected participants will be challenged with an impromptu speech competition, with the topic to be announced on the day of the event.
## Special Guest Judge
Coco Son, the winner of the 'EF Speech Grand Prix 2025' (High School category), will participate as a special judge. Son, a multi-lingual student with numerous domestic and international awards, will oversee the finalists' speeches.
## Prizes and Event Overview
The winner of the general category will receive a one-week study abroad program at EF Singapore. Other winners and runners-up in each category will receive discounts on EF courses or internship opportunities. All finalists will receive a certification of achievement. The event will take place at the EF Tokyo Headquarters, Shibuya Sakura Stage, on June 7.
EF Education First Japan, a global educational institution operating in over 110 countries, announced on May 15, 2026, the 16 finalists for the 'EF Global Speech Contest 2026' (EFGSC2026). Four finalists were selected for each of the four categories: Middle School (General/Advanced) and High School (General/Advanced). The final round is scheduled for June 7, 2026, at the EF Tokyo Headquarters.
## Preliminary Theme: '3 Hashtags'
The theme for the preliminaries was 'Describe yourself in 3 hashtags.' While familiar to digital-native students, it required deep thinking and practical English skills as there are no 'model answers.' The judging prioritized whether the participants spoke with passion using their own words.
## Strict Judging and the Path to the Finals
Judges evaluated participants based on five criteria: Content, Language, Delivery, Creativity, and Passion. In the finals, the 16 selected participants will be challenged with an impromptu speech competition, with the topic to be announced on the day of the event.
## Special Guest Judge
Coco Son, the winner of the 'EF Speech Grand Prix 2025' (High School category), will participate as a special judge. Son, a multi-lingual student with numerous domestic and international awards, will oversee the finalists' speeches.
## Prizes and Event Overview
The winner of the general category will receive a one-week study abroad program at EF Singapore. Other winners and runners-up in each category will receive discounts on EF courses or internship opportunities. All finalists will receive a certification of achievement. The event will take place at the EF Tokyo Headquarters, Shibuya Sakura Stage, on June 7.
FAQ
What is the benefit of joining the EF contest?
Students gain skills in expressing themselves globally, with winners receiving study abroad opportunities or internships.
Difference between Advanced and General categories?
Specific details are not disclosed, but categories are structured to accommodate different levels of proficiency.
Where can I see past participants' experiences?
EF's official YouTube channel showcases stories from actual students and their learning experiences.