A Catalogue of 300 Best Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

Basics of Persuasive Essay Writing  

A persuasive essay is all about convincing your readers to see things from your point of view. Think of it as a debate on paper. You pick a topic, take a stance, and then use evidence and reasoning to make your case. 

In this type of essay, your goal should be to persuade your audience to agree with your perspective or take action based on your argument. 

A persuasive essay is often mixed up with an argumentative essay. Both try to convince readers, but persuasive essays appeal more to emotions, while argumentative essays use logic and evidence. It can also be confused with an expository essay, which aims to inform rather than persuade, focusing on presenting facts without pushing a specific viewpoint.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Students of All Grades

In this section, we’ll explore persuasive essay topics suited for students at all levels, from elementary school up to college and university. Whether you're just starting out or are deep into your studies, there's a topic here for you.

Persuasive Essay Topics For Grade 5

• Should Schools Have Longer Recess Periods?
• Should Homework Be Banned in Elementary School?
• Should All Students Be Required to Learn a Second Language?
• Should Animals Be Used in Science Experiments?
• Should Every Student Get a Pet in School?
• Should School Lunches Be Healthier?
• Should Students Be Allowed to Use Smartphones in Class?
• Should All Classrooms Have Air Conditioning?
• Should Kids Have a Say in What They Learn in School?
• Discuss the Benefits of Allowing More Field Trips in School.

Persuasive Writing Topics For Grade 6

• All Students Should Wear Uniforms
• Should Students Have Less School Work Over the Weekend?
• Should Schools Offer More Creative Arts Classes?
• Should Physical Education Be Mandatory Every Day?
• Should Schools Have a No-Phone Policy During Lunch?
• Should All Students Participate in Community Service?
• Should Video Games Be Used as Educational Tools in Class?
• Should Schools Limit the Amount of Time Students Spend on Technology?
• Should Students Be Allowed to Choose Their Own Study Subjects?
• Discuss the Impact of School Libraries on Student Learning.

Persuasive Essay Topics For Grade 7

• Should Schools Offer More Extracurricular Activities?
• Should Students Be Allowed to Have Breaks During Long Exams?
• Should Schools Implement a Four-Day School Week?
• Should All Students Be Taught Financial Literacy?
• Should Kids Have More Control Over Their Own Learning?
• Should School Cafeterias Serve Organic Food?
• Is Social Media Bad For You? 
• Should Schools Have a Mandatory Environmental Education Program?
• Should There Be More Focus on Mental Health in Schools?
• Discuss the Importance of Teaching Ethics and Morality in Schools.

Persuasive Essay Topics For Grade 8

• Discuss the Effectiveness of Peer Tutoring Programs in Schools.
• Discuss the Influence of School Culture on Student Success.
• Should Schools Provide More Support for Students with Learning Disabilities?
• Should Teenagers Be Required to Take a Course on Public Speaking?
• Discuss the Role of Social Media in Education.
• Should Schools Have a Dress Code for Physical Education Classes?
• Should Schools Offer More Career Exploration Opportunities?
• Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks of Year Round School vs. Traditional Calendars.
• Should Students Be Allowed to Choose Their Own Class Schedules?
• Discuss the Impact of Online Education on Traditional Classroom Education.

Persuasive Essay Topics High School

• Discuss the Benefits of School-Based Mental Health Care Services for Students.
• Should Schools Implement a Later Start Time for Students?
• Discuss the Importance of Civic Education in Preparing Students for Citizenship.
• Discuss the Pros and Cons of Implementing Uniform Policies in High Schools.
• Should All High School Students Be Required to Take a Financial Management Course?
• Discuss the Role of Technology in Enhancing Learning Outcomes in High School.
• Should Schools Offer More Advanced Placement (AP) Classes?
• High School Students Be Allowed to Vote in Local Elections. Discuss.
• Should Schools Provide Free College Preparation Resources for All Students?
• Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Teen Mental Health.

Persuasive Essay Topics For College 

• Should College Education Be Free for All Students?
• Should Universities Require Students to Take a Course on Climate Change?
• Should Student Loans Have a Cap on Interest Rates?
• Should College Campuses Offer More Mental Health Resources?
• Should Internships Be a Mandatory Part of All Electoral  College Degrees?
• Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Academic Integrity.
• Discuss the Role of Technology in Facilitating Distance Learning in Higher Education.
• Discuss the Benefits of Diversity and Inclusion Programs on College Campuses.
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Online vs. Traditional College Courses.
• Discuss the Ethical Implications of Using AI in College Admissions.

Persuasive Essay Topics for University 

• Should Universities Implement a Universal Pass/Fail Grading System?
• Discuss the Impact of Student Activism on University Policy Changes.
• Should Colleges Offer Free Textbooks for All Students?
• Discuss the Role of University Research in Addressing Global Challenges.
• Should Universities Have a Mandate for Sustainability Practices?
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Mental Health Initiatives in Reducing Stress Among Students.
• Should Higher Education Institutions Prioritize Practical Skills Over Theoretical Knowledge?
• Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks of a Flexible Semester System.
• Should Universities Provide More Support for Student Entrepreneurs?
• Discuss the Influence of Globalization on University Curricula.

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Subject-Specific Persuasive Essay Ideas

Here, we’ll explore persuasive essay topics focused on different subjects. No matter the subject you're studying, you'll find interesting ideas for your field!

Law and Justice

• Should Juveniles Be Tried as Adults for Serious Crimes?
• Discuss the Impact of Mandatory Minimum Sentences on the Criminal Justice System.
• Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished Worldwide?
• Discuss the Role of Rehabilitation vs. Punishment in Reducing Recidivism.
• Should Surveillance Technology Be Restricted to Protect Privacy Rights?
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Drug Courts in Addressing Substance Abuse.
• Should Legal Aid Be Guaranteed for All Defendants Regardless of Income?
• Discuss the Influence of Media Coverage on High-Profile Trials.
• Should the Legal Drinking Age Be Lowered to 18?
• Discuss the Challenges of Ensuring Fair Trials in Cases Involving Racial Bias.

Politics and Government

• Should Campaign Finance Reform Be a Priority for All Governments?
• Discuss the Pros and Cons of Implementing Term Limits for Legislators.
• Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16?
• Discuss the Impact of Gerrymandering on Electoral Fairness.
• Should Governments Provide Universal Basic Income?
• Discuss the Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Policy.
• Should International Organizations Have Greater Authority Over National Governments?
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Mandatory Voting Laws in Improving Democracy.
• Should Citizens Have the Right to Recall Elected Officials?
• Discuss the Benefits and Risks of Proportional Representation in Elections.

Science and Technology

• Should Governments Invest More in Renewable Energy Research?
• Can Technology Solve Our Environmental Problems?
• Should Genetically Modified Foods Be Banned?
• Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health.
• Should Governments Fund Space Exploration Programs?
• Discuss the Benefits and Risks of Autonomous Vehicles.
• Should Personal Data Privacy Laws Be Strengthened to Protect Users?
• Discuss the Role of Technology in Enhancing Educational Outcomes.
• Should Climate Engineering Solutions Be Pursued to Combat Global Warming?
• Discuss the Influence of Biotechnology on Modern Medicine.

Social Issues

• Should Healthcare Be Universal?
• Discuss the Effects of Income Inequality on Social Mobility.
• Should Governments Regulate Social Media to Prevent Misinformation?
• Discuss the Role of Education in Addressing Systemic Racism.
• Should the Minimum Wage Be Increased to a Living Wage?
• Discuss the Impact of Affordable Housing Policies on Urban Development.
• Should Parental Leave Policies Be Standardized Across All Professions?
• Discuss the Benefits of Legalizing Recreational Marijuana.
• Should Schools Be Required to Teach Financial Literacy as Part of the Curriculum?
• Discuss the Influence of Cultural Representation in Media on Public Perception.

History

• Should Historical Monuments with Controversial Backgrounds Be Removed?
• Discuss the Role of Historical Fiction in Shaping Public Understanding of Past Events.
• Should Schools Include More Diverse Perspectives in History Curriculum?
• Discuss the Impact of Colonialism on Modern-Day Socioeconomic Structures.
• Should World War II Be Taught as a Central Focus in History Education?
• Discuss the Influence of Ancient Civilizations on Modern Governance Systems.
• Should Historical Figures with Controversial Legacies Be Re-evaluated in Textbooks?
• Discuss the Significance of the Civil Rights Movement in Contemporary Society.
• Should Museums Focus More on Preserving Local History or Global History?
• Discuss the Lessons Learned from Historical Economic Crises and Their Relevance Today.

Education

• Should Schools Teach Abstinence-Only Education?
• Discuss the Benefits of Integrating Technology in the Classroom.
• Should Schools Adopt a Year-Round Education System?
• Discuss the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Academic Success.
• Should Students Take a Self-Defense Class?
• Discuss the Impact of Class Size on Student Learning Outcomes.
• Should Financial Literacy Be a Required Subject in Schools?
• Discuss the Advantages of Bilingual Education in Early Childhood.
• Should Schools Provide Free Meals to All Students?
• Discuss the Importance of Arts Education in Fostering Creativity.

Environment

• Should Single-Use Plastics Be Banned Globally?
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Renewable Energy in Combating Climate Change.
• Should Governments Provide Incentives for Reducing Carbon Footprints?
• Discuss the Role of Urban Green Spaces in Environmental Sustainability.
• Should Climate Change Education Be Mandatory in Schools?
• Discuss the Impact of Overfishing on Marine Ecosystems.
• Should Companies Be Required to Report Their Environmental Impact?
• Discuss the Benefits of Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet for Environmental Conservation.
• Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Deforestation?
• Discuss the Challenges of Implementing Zero-Waste Policies in Cities.

Health & Wellness

• Should Governments Subsidize Healthy Foods to Combat Obesity?
• Discuss the Role of Mental Health Days in Improving Student Well-being.
• Should COVID-19 Vaccination Be Mandatory for Public Health?
• Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks of Telemedicine for Patient Care.
• Should Workplaces Implement Mandatory Wellness Programs for Employees?
• Discuss the Impact of Sleep Hygiene on Overall Health.
• Should Vaccinations Be Required for All Public School Students?
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Meditation and Mindfulness Practices in Stress Reduction.
• Should There Be More Public Education on Preventative Healthcare Measures?
• Discuss the Influence of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem.

Food & Nutrition

• Should Fast Food Advertising Be Restricted to Protect Children's Health?
• Discuss the Impact of Plant-Based Diets on Environmental Sustainability.
• Should Schools Offer Free Breakfast and Lunch to All Students?
• Discuss the Benefits of Organic Foods Compared to Conventional Foods.
• Should Nutrition Labels Include More Information About Added Sugars?
• Discuss the Role of Dietary Supplements in Preventing Chronic Diseases.
• Should Restaurants Be Required to Provide Nutritional Information on Menus?
• Discuss the Importance of Teaching Cooking Skills in Schools.
• Should Governments Implement Sugar Taxes to Reduce Consumption?
• Discuss the Influence of Cultural Food Practices on Modern Nutrition.

Economics

• Should the Minimum Wage Be Increased to Match the Cost of Living?
• Discuss the Impact of Universal Basic Income on Economic Inequality.
• Should Governments Provide Subsidies for Green Technology?
• Discuss the Role of Tax Incentives in Encouraging Business Investment.
• Should There Be Stricter Regulations on Financial Speculation?
• Discuss the Effects of Globalization on Local Economies.
• Should Student Loan Debt Forgiveness Be Implemented?
• Discuss the Economic Benefits and Risks of Trade Tariffs.
• Should There Be a Cap on Executive Salaries to Reduce Income Disparity?
• Discuss the Influence of Cryptocurrency on Traditional Financial Systems.

Media and Entertainment

• Should Streaming Services Be Required to Include More Diverse Content?
• Discuss the Impact of Celebrity Endorsements on Consumer Behavior.
• Should Social Media Platforms Be Held Responsible for Content Moderation?
• Discuss the Role of Media Literacy in Protecting Against Misinformation.
• Should Video Game Companies Implement Stricter Regulations on In-Game Purchases?
• Discuss the Influence of Reality TV on Public Perception of Reality.
• Should There Be Regulations on the Amount of Advertising Targeted at Children?
• Discuss the Economic Impact of Major Film Studios on Local Economies.
• Should Content Creators Be Paid Fairly for Their Work on Social Media Platforms?
• Discuss the Ethical Considerations of Using Deepfake Technology in Entertainment.

Music

• Should Music Education Be Mandatory in Schools?
• Discuss the Impact of Streaming Services on the Music Industry.
• Should Artists Have Control Over How Their Music Is Used?
• Discuss the Influence of Music on Teen Behavior.
• Should Concert Tickets Be More Affordable?
• Discuss the Role of Music in Mental Health.
• Should Musicians Be Allowed to Perform Political Songs?
• Discuss the Evolution of Music Genres Over the Decades.
• Should Music Piracy Be More Strictly Enforced?
• Discuss the Benefits of Learning to Play an Instrument.

Sports

• Should Professional Athletes Be Paid More than Public Servants?
• Discuss the Impact of Sports Sponsorships on Athlete Performance.
• Should Youth Sports Programs Be Funded by Public Schools?
• Discuss the Role of Technology in Enhancing Athletic Performance.
• Should There Be More Strict Regulations on Concussions in Contact Sports?
• Discuss the Benefits of Encouraging Girls to Participate in Sports.
• Should College Athletes Be Compensated for Their Role in Generating Revenue?
• Discuss the Influence of Sports on National Identity and Pride.
• Should Performance-Enhancing Drugs Be Legalized in Professional Sports Teams?
• Discuss the Effect of Major Sporting Events on Host Cities’ Economies.

Animals and Wildlife

• Should Zoos Focus More on Conservation Than Entertainment?
• Discuss the Effects of Deforestation on Endangered Species.
• Should Hunting Be Banned to Protect Wildlife Populations?
• Discuss the Role of Wildlife Corridors in Preventing Animal Extinction.
• Should Pet Ownership Be Regulated to Ensure Animal Welfare?
• Discuss the Impact of Climate Change on Marine Life.
• Should There Be Stricter Laws Against Animal Cruelty?
• Discuss the Benefits of Wildlife Rehabilitation and Release Programs.
• Should Trophy Hunting Be Prohibited to Protect Endangered Species?
• Discuss the Ethical Implications of Using Animals in Scientific Research.

Ethics

• Should Companies Be Required to Publish Their Environmental Impact?
• Discuss the Ethics of Using Animals for Scientific Research.
• Should Whistleblowers Be Protected by Law?
• Discuss the Moral Implications of Genetic Engineering.
• Should Celebrities Be Held to Higher Ethical Standards?
• Can Animal Testing Be Ethical?
• Should Online Privacy Be a Fundamental Right?
• Discuss the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Decision-Making.
• Is Capital Punishment Ethical?
• Are Drunk Drivers Punished Appropriately?

Persuasive Essay Topics by Complexity

Now, let’s check out persuasive essay topics based on how tricky they are. Whether you’re after something easy or more advanced, you’ll find a topic that fits.

Beginner Topics

• Gun Ownership Should Be Tightly Regulated. Discuss.
• Discuss the Benefits of Reading Books Over Watching TV.
• Should Homework Be Limited to One Hour Per Night?
• Discuss the Advantages of Using Reusable Bags Instead of Plastic Ones.
• Are Open Borders a Good Idea?
• Discuss the Impact of School Libraries on Student Learning.
• Should Fast Food Be Banned in School Cafeterias?
• Discuss the Importance of Regular Exercise for Kids.
• Books Should Be Replaced with Tablets
• Does Your School Handle Bullying Well?

Intermediate Topics

• Should Schools Implement a Later Start Time to Improve Student Performance?
• Discuss the Impact of Social Media on Teen Self-Esteem.
• Should Governments Invest More in Public Transportation to Reduce Traffic?
• Discuss the Advantages of Renewable Energy Sources Over Fossil Fuels.
• Should Higher Education Be Free for All Students?
• Discuss the Effectiveness of Mental Health Programs in Schools.
• Should Companies Be Required to Provide Paid Parental Leave?
• Discuss the Benefits of Mandatory Financial Literacy Education in High School.
• Should Online Privacy Laws Be Strengthened to Protect Personal Information?
• Discuss the Role of Government in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Practices.

Advanced Topics

• Should Governments Enforce Stricter Regulations on Artificial Intelligence Development?
• Discuss the Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering in Humans.
• Should There Be a Universal Basic Income to Address Economic Inequality?
• Discuss the Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity and Diversity.
• Should Climate Change Mitigation Strategies Prioritize Renewable Energy Over Carbon Capture?
• Discuss the Role of International Organizations in Managing Global Health Crises.
• Should Nations Adopt a Global Tax on Multinational Corporations to Address Inequality?
• Discuss the Challenges and Benefits of Implementing Universal Healthcare Systems.
• Should Governments Take More Aggressive Actions to Combat Cybercrime?
• Discuss the Influence of Media Ownership Concentration on Public Opinion and Democracy.

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Persuasive Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should Governments Mandate Corporate Social Responsibility Programs for Large Companies?
• Discuss the Impact of Automation on the Job Market and Income Distribution.
• Should Higher Education Institutions Be Held Responsible for Student Loan Debt?
• Discuss the Feasibility and Ethical Implications of Universal Basic Healthcare.
• Should Countries Adopt a Global Standard for Privacy Protection in Digital Transactions?
• Discuss the Consequences of Overpopulation on Global Resources and Environmental Sustainability.
• Should Governments Regulate the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Military Applications?
• Discuss the Role of Cultural Preservation in the Age of Globalization and Technological Advancement.
• Should Public Funding Be Allocated to Support the Arts and Humanities in Education?
• Discuss the Potential Risks and Benefits of Genetic Modification in Agriculture.

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

• Higher Taxes on the Wealthy: A Fair Solution?
• Are Abortion Restrictions Protecting Fetal Life or Limiting Women's Choices?
• Do Graphic Warning Labels on Cigarette Packs Truly Deter Smoking?
• Do Drug Tests Ensure Safety or Violate Privacy Rights?
• Sex Education In Schools: Does it Foster Safer and Informed Choices
• Censorship of Art and Media: Protecting or Suppressing Expression?
• Stricter Background Checks: Enhancing Gun Control or Infringing on Rights?
• Free Speech Should Have Limitations
• Universal Basic Income: Easing Poverty or Discouraging Work?
• Should Violent  Video Games Be Considered a Sport?

Unique Persuasive Essay Topics Ideas

• Should Space Exploration Funding Be Increased?
• Discuss the Benefits of Banning Homework in Elementary Schools.
• Should Fast Fashion Brands Face Stricter Regulations?
• Discuss the Impact of Social Media Influencers on Youth Culture.
• Should Public Parks Have Designated Areas for Dog Owners?
• Should Nuclear Power Be Banned? 
• Should Schools Teach Emotional Intelligence as Part of the Curriculum?
• Discuss the Ethics of Using AI in Art and Creativity.
• Should Eco-Friendly Products Be Subsidized by the Government?
• Discuss the Role of Gamification in Enhancing Learning Outcomes.

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics

• Should School Cafeterias Offer Healthier Lunch Options?
• Should Nuclear Power Be Banned?
• Should Students Be Allowed to Use Cell Phones in Class?
• Discuss the Importance of Recycling at Home.
• Should Schools Have Longer Summer Breaks?
• Discuss the Advantages of Reading for Pleasure.
• Should Schools Offer More Art and Music Classes?
• Should Sports Be Mandatory in School Curriculums?
• Discuss the Impact of a Positive Attitude on Academic Success.
• Discuss the Benefits of Keeping Pets in the Classroom.

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics

• Should Schools Have a Nap Time for Students?
• Discuss the Impact of Hosting a School Carnival on Student Engagement.
• Discuss the Benefits of Allowing Pets in the Workplace.
• Should Every Student Have a Personal Robot Assistant?
• Discuss the Impact of Having a School Talent Show.
• Are There Benefits To Cannabis Use?
• Discuss the Benefits of Wearing Pajamas to School.
• Should Schools Offer a “Free Day” for Creative Projects?
• Discuss the Importance of Having a Weekly “Fun Friday” in Class.
• Should Students Design Their Own School Uniforms?

Decided on a topic? Check out these persuasive essay examples to start writing your essay on any topic!

Tips to Choose a Persuasive Essay Topic

Picking the right topic is key to writing a great persuasive essay. Check out these practical tips to find a topic that will grab your readers' attention and help you make a strong argument:

• Pick What Interests You: Choose a topic you’re passionate about. It’ll make researching and writing much more enjoyable and engaging.
• Know Your Audience: Think about who will be reading your essay. Pick a topic that will resonate with them and spark their interest.
• Be Clear and Specific: Select a topic that is narrow enough to cover in detail. A specific topic helps you build a stronger argument.
• Check for Controversy: Opt for a topic with different viewpoints. A controversial issue can provide more material for a persuasive argument.
• Researchability Matters: Ensure there’s enough information available on your topic. Good research is key to building a solid argument.
• Stay Current: Topics related to current events or recent developments can make your essay more relevant and engaging.
• Avoid Overused Topics: Try to steer clear of clichés or overly common issues. Fresh topics can make your essay stand out.
• Scope and Depth: Make sure it's neither too broad, nor too narrow. So narrow down your focus on a single aspect while developing ideas for your essay.

To Sum it Up, you now have a wide variety of essay topics to choose from and can dive into writing your persuasive essay.

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