The College Fed Challenge is a national team competition that gives undergraduate students the opportunity to analyze current economic conditions and present monetary policy recommendations to a panel of Federal Reserve judges. Teams also participate in a Q&A session, showcasing their understanding of macroeconomic theory, monetary policy, and real-world scenarios. ​

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In addition to the educational benefits and confidence arising through rigorous competition, students benefit from participation through opportunities to apply their experience, to acquire internships, discover potential career paths, and hone skills of public speaking, critical thinking, writing, and analysis which are essential to successful integration into the global economy. 

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Students that participate in the competition learn an incredible amount about the economy and the policy process, and many students that participate often go on to internships or careers in the Federal Reserve system, or graduate school studies at the master’s or PhD level in economics, finance or other related fields. In short, the competition provides a vital link to students who wish to challenge themselves and apply theory to real world problems in a unique competitive setting, as well as provide a springboard to potential future careers.

The UEA is in charge of recruiting Fed Challenge team members and providing the necessary logistical support for all aspects of the competition. Thanks to the UEA, students can now earn academic credit for participating in the Fed Challenge from 2025 onwards.

Read more about the FED Challenge here.

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Applications for the Fall 2025 challenge are now closed.