170+ Persuasive Essay Topics for College Students

Are you full of ideas that you are willing to share with the world? If so, persuasive essay is an excellent chance for you to put forward your opinion. Of course, it is not an easy task to persuade someone since it’s hard to change other people’s views, but this kind of essay is a good opportunity to give your readers some food for thought. And don’t worry if you haven’t found a perfect topic for your essay yet — this article has got some great persuasive essay topics ideas!

How to Write a Persuasive Essay?

Of course, in order to cope with this task successfully, it is necessary to know which rules should be followed in the process of writing. There are numerous guides on how to write such type of papers, and all of them have something in common. However, before working on the essay, make sure that you got familiar with the formatting rules at your school or university.

This assignment may seem difficult at first glance, but don’t lose heart! Actually, writing a persuasive essay is easier than you may think; the most complicated task is to select the topic you are going to discuss from the number of different persuasive essay topics. However, in order to make it easier for those who have just acquainted themselves with such type of papers, we are going to talk about persuasive essays in general.

Once you learned that you need to find unique persuasive essay topics in order to write a good paper, first of all, you have to think how it should be structured. Fortunately, there are many ways to write persuasive essays, so you can literally use any structure that you can imagine. However, there are some common rules that you still have to adhere to.

To begin, you need to create an intro paragraph. The main purpose of this section is to inform the readers about the objective of the paper and provide some general facts about the subject under consideration. Make sure you don’t give any personal opinions in this part of the text.

Writing the next part of the essay will be easier if you pick one of the best persuasive essay topics you are familiar with. In the main part, you should present your arguments that support the thesis statement that has been introduced in the first paragraph. It will be great if you back up your own ideas with some facts. Finally, after you presented all the information, you need to systematize it to help the readers make the right conclusion.

So, as you can see, writing such type of essay does not require any specific skills!

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

If you have decided to write a persuasive essay on education, you may describe the ways to make the modern system more productive for both teachers and students. To get the most out of the education essay topics, explore the various resources about the problem you are writing about. For example, you can start from blog of our academic writing service.

Here are some good persuasive essay topics about education:

1. Should children from low-income families be offered free college tuition? 
2. Distance education vs. traditional learning: what are the benefits and drawbacks of both and which one is better?
3. Should classes be shorter or longer, and why? What time is the most suitable for students to study effectively?
4. Is standardized testing effective? Should the procedure be changed?
5. Should every student in high school perform a certain amount of community service hours in order to graduate?
6. Is homework an effective way of learning new information? Should the amount of homework that teachers give in schools be reduced?
7. Should school tests measure not only students’ knowledge, but practical skills acquired in the studying process?
8. Should students who are responsible for both bullying and cyberbullying be expelled from schools, colleges, and universities?
9.  Should students wear a uniform or have a right to choose the way they dress for school?

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

If you were given a task to write a persuasive essay, cheer up! That’s a great chance for you to discuss some important topics and issues. Express your thoughts about something that bothers you and mention the things you would like to change. You can also outline a problem that is commonly discussed and give your opinion on it. If you have no ideas what to talk about, here is the list of popular persuasive essay topics for high school students:

1. Can listening to music help you study better? Are there any specific genres of music that make the studying process more effective?
2. How can high school students deal with stress? Should there be a special educational program that helps students go through hard times? What is, in your opinion, the best way to cope with stress?
3. Should children be paid for doing household chores and getting good grades? Is it a good motivation for middle and high school students to do well at school?
4. Can video games be good for learning new things and developing skills? Do you play video games and have they taught you something new?
5. Who was your favorite teacher in high school, and why? Did they inspire you to do something great in your life?
6. Are extracurricular activities and hobbies important for your future career? Can they help you decide what kind of job you want to have?
7. Should high school students read more? In your opinion, are books still relevant these days and why? How often do you read? Which genres are the best for young adults?
8. What is the impact of social media on high school students? Is it okay to use social media during a regular school day or should the usage of social networks be banned in high schools?
9. Should sexual education be taught in schools? What is the most effective way to teach sex education in high school?

Persuasive Essay About Homework Policies

1. Should schools implement a no-homework policy for better student well-being?

2. Does excessive homework negatively affect students' mental health?

3. Should homework be limited to a certain number of hours per week?

4. Is homework an effective way to reinforce learning, or is it outdated?

5. Should schools give students the option to complete assignments during class instead of at home?

6. Should teachers assign only project-based homework instead of worksheets?

7. Would replacing homework with hands-on learning activities improve student engagement?

8. Should elementary school students have no homework at all?

9. Should students have weekends free from homework to promote a healthy balance?

10. Should teachers tailor homework assignments to students' individual learning needs?

Persuasive Essay About Grading System

1. Should schools replace letter grades with written feedback?

2. Is a pass/fail system better for student learning and mental health?

3. Should students be graded on effort rather than performance?

4. Should standardized tests be removed from grading criteria?

5. Do grades motivate students, or do they create unnecessary pressure?

6. Should schools eliminate class rankings to reduce academic stress?

7. Is grading on a curve an unfair practice?

8. Should participation and effort be worth more in a student’s final grade?

9. Should teachers allow students to retake tests for a better grade?

10. Would a skills-based grading system be more effective than traditional grades?

Persuasive Essay About Extracurricular Activities

1. Should schools require students to participate in at least one extracurricular activity?

2. Do extracurricular activities improve students' academic performance?

3. Should students receive academic credit for participation in extracurricular activities?

4. Are competitive sports too stressful for high school students?

5. Should schools provide more funding for arts and music programs?

6. Should schools offer more extracurricular options beyond sports and clubs?

7. Is it fair to require student-athletes to maintain a minimum GPA?

8. Should extracurricular activities be mandatory for college admissions consideration?

9. Do too many extracurricular activities cause student burnout?

10. Should schools prioritize clubs and organizations that promote leadership and career skills?

College Persuasive Essay Topics

Since persuasive essay is a common assignment in college, it is quite probable that you will have to write it. Check out these college persuasive essay topics in case you are looking for some ideas for your essay:

1. Should college textbooks be replaced with e-books?
2. Should college provide students with the opportunity to study only the subjects they like?
3. Should all students have an opportunity to study abroad? How does college help students travel to other countries to continue their studies?
4. Should college promote recycling? How can young adults learn how to live more eco-friendly lives?
5. How can students avoid loan debts, and what does every student have to know before taking it?
6. Is computer science one of the most important subjects these days and should everyone study it while being a college student?

Persuasive Essay About the Student Debt Crisis

1. The student debt crisis is a national emergency that needs immediate governmental action.

2. Forgiving student loans would stimulate the economy and benefit society as a whole.

3. The rising cost of tuition has made college education inaccessible to many students.

4. Student debt is disproportionately affecting marginalized communities and perpetuating inequality.

5. Interest rates on student loans should be capped to prevent further financial strain on borrowers.

6. Free college education should be implemented to alleviate the burden of student debt.

7. The student loan forgiveness program is essential for providing financial relief to graduates.

8. College should be seen as an investment, not a financial burden, for young people.

9. The current system of student loans traps graduates in debt for decades, delaying their financial independence.

10. Universities should be held accountable for the high costs of education and be required to offer more financial aid options.

Persuasive Essay About Mental Health in College

1. College campuses should offer mandatory mental health screenings for all students.

2. Mental health education should be integrated into college curricula to reduce stigma and increase awareness.

3. Increased funding for campus counseling services is essential for supporting student mental health.

4. Universities should implement stress-relief programs and activities to help students cope with academic pressure.

5. Mental health days should be recognized as legitimate excused absences by all colleges.

6. The lack of mental health resources on college campuses is contributing to the rising suicide rate among students.

7. Online counseling and therapy services should be available to all students, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic.

8. Universities must prioritize mental health alongside academic success to ensure holistic student well-being.

9. College students should be taught coping skills and stress management techniques from their first year.

10. Universities need to overcome the stigma surrounding mental health issues to encourage students to seek help.

Persuasive Essay About Internships and Experience

1. Internships should be a mandatory part of every college program to better prepare students for the workforce.

2. Paid internships are essential to ensuring that all students have access to real-world work experience, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

3. Universities should partner with more companies to create diverse and accessible internship opportunities for students.

4. Internships provide invaluable networking opportunities that can lead to permanent job offers after graduation.

5. The lack of paid internship opportunities disproportionately disadvantages students from lower-income families.

6. Internships should offer meaningful work experience, not just administrative tasks, to truly benefit students.

7. Employers should offer flexible internship schedules to accommodate students’ academic commitments.

8. College credit should be given for internships to recognize the educational value of real-world experience.

9. Internships should be accessible to students in all fields of study, not just business and engineering.

10. Universities should offer career counseling and guidance to help students find internships that align with their career goals.

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

Sometimes you feel like you want to discuss some problems and issues that are topical for society, but struggle to choose a specific topic you would like to talk about. If so, there is no reason to worry as we’ve got some great persuasive essay topics:

1. Should abortions be legalized, and why? What are the arguments in favor and against abortions?
2. Did our actions become the main cause of climate change? Can the harm be reduced, or is it inevitable?
3. Should people go to jail or pay a fine for abandoning their pets and leaving them on the streets?
4. Should vaccinations be mandatory for everyone and why? Are vaccinations really helpful and do they have any adverse side effects?
5. Should medicine be free for everyone who needs it?
6. Should public transportation be free?
7. Should testing on animals be banned in all countries? What are the alternatives to animal testing?
8. How harmful are gender roles and stereotypes for both men and women? What measures can be taken to avoid them?
9. Should cigarettes be illegal, and why?
10.  Should the death penalty be banned in all countries? What is the best way to punish criminals and decrease the delinquency rate?
11.  Should the minimum wage be raised?

These were the most interesting persuasive essay topics on social issues, but there are many more themes to write about. Just keep looking, and you will find many great stories and ideas which are worth sharing!

Persuasive Essay About Censorship and Free Speech

1. Social media platforms should not have the power to censor user content without transparent guidelines.

2. The government should not censor controversial speech as it goes against the core principles of free expression.

3. Censorship in schools is necessary to protect children from harmful or inappropriate content.

4. Hate speech laws should be enforced to protect individuals from harmful rhetoric but should not infringe on free speech.

5. The rise of cancel culture is a form of modern censorship that threatens free speech.

6. Artistic expression should remain uncensored, even if it offends certain individuals or groups.

7. Free speech on college campuses should be protected, even when it involves controversial or offensive ideas.

8. Censorship of the media by governments compromises the public’s right to be informed.

9. The balance between national security and free speech is crucial to protect both freedom and safety.

10. Censorship of books in public libraries limits intellectual freedom and should not be allowed.

Persuasive Essay About Animal Rights vs. Human Needs

1. Animal testing should be banned, as it is unethical and alternatives are available.

2. The meat industry should be reformed to address both human nutritional needs and animal welfare.

3. Humans have a moral obligation to prioritize animal rights over economic gains from industries like factory farming.

4. Hunting for sport is unnecessary and should be banned to protect wildlife.

5. Animal farming should be heavily regulated to ensure the humane treatment of animals.

6. It is unethical to use animals for entertainment, such as in circuses or zoos, when they are exploited for profit.

7. Plant-based diets should be promoted over animal-based diets to reduce harm to animals and the environment.

8. Wildlife conservation efforts should prioritize preserving animal habitats over human expansion and development.

9. The use of animals in fashion (e.g., fur coats, leather products) should be banned to protect animal rights.

10. The ethical treatment of animals should take precedence over human convenience, especially in areas like research and agriculture.

Persuasive Essay About Legalization Issues

1. Marijuana should be legalized for both medical and recreational use to reduce crime and improve public health.

2. The legalization of prostitution would ensure the safety and rights of sex workers while reducing trafficking and exploitation.

3. Euthanasia should be legalized to allow terminally ill patients the right to end their suffering with dignity.

4. The legalization of sports betting should be implemented to generate tax revenue and regulate the industry.

5. Legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide is essential for equality and human rights.

6. The decriminalization of drug use should be prioritized to reduce the burden on the criminal justice system and focus on rehabilitation.

7. Legalizing assisted suicide provides individuals with autonomy over their own lives and deaths, especially in cases of terminal illness.

8. The legalization of homeschooling should be expanded to give parents more control over their children’s education.

9. Gun control laws should be reformed to balance the right to bear arms with the need for public safety.

10. The legalization of abortion is necessary to ensure women’s rights over their bodies and reproductive health.

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics

If you don’t feel like writing on serious themes or have no desire to write about something complicated, here are some short persuasive essay topics:

1. Are comic books worth reading?
2. Can a hobby become your career?
3. How can we make more friends?
4. Should everyone learn how to take good photographs?
5. Should we eat healthy foods only? Is it okay to eat junk food from time to time?
6. How does the Internet influence our lives?

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics About Technology

1. Should children have screen time limits?

2. Is online learning better than traditional learning?

3. Should video games be considered a sport?

4. Should schools use AI to grade assignments?

5. Are smartphones too distracting for students?

6. Should parents monitor their kids’ social media accounts?

7. Is technology making people less social?

8. Should there be stricter regulations on internet privacy?

9. Should self-driving cars be allowed on the roads?

10. Is texting ruining grammar and communication skills?

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics About Health

1. Should fast food advertisements be banned for kids?

2. Is breakfast really the most important meal of the day?

3. Should junk food be taxed more?

4. Should students be required to take mental health days?

5. Should energy drinks be banned for teenagers?

6. Is a vegan diet better for your health?

7. Should soda be removed from school vending machines?

8. Should people be required to exercise regularly?

9. Should cigarette smoking be completely banned?

10. Should the government limit sugar in processed foods?

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics About Environment

1. Should plastic water bottles be banned?

2. Is recycling actually effective?

3. Should people be fined for littering?

4. Should fast food restaurants use biodegradable packaging?

5. Should schools have mandatory tree-planting programs?

6. Should grocery stores stop providing plastic bags?

7. Should we ban fireworks to reduce air pollution?

8. Should everyone be required to use public transport once a week?

9. Is it better to buy local food instead of imported food?

10. Should single-use plastics be completely banned?

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Issues

1. Should social media platforms do more to prevent cyberbullying?

2. Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

3. Is cancel culture harmful to society?

4. Should celebrities be considered role models?

5. Should animal testing be banned?

6. Is it important to volunteer in your community?

7. Should workplaces offer equal pay for all genders?

8. Should schools teach students about mental health?

9. Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos?

10. Should people be required to donate unused food to the homeless?

Of course, there are numerous persuasive essay topics you could write about. If you haven’t found the one you like, it does not mean that you have to give up — you just need to keep looking!