The present invention provides a composition for forming an electron emission source comprising a carbon-based material and a vehicle comprising a resin component and a solvent component. The resin component is a material that has less than 0.5 wt % of carbon deposits after undergoing a heat treatment at 450.degree. C. under nitrogen atmosphere. The present invention also provides a method of preparing an electron emission source using the composition for forming an electron emission source, and an electron emission source that is prepared using the electron emission source. The electron emission source prepared using the composition has a small amount of the carbon deposits which improves its electric current density and lengthens its lifespan.