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Looking for a Writing Contest to Enter?

Hannah Yang

Writing contests can be a useful way to send your work out into the world. With a strong submission and a bit of luck, you can win publication, recognition, and even cash prizes.

This article will give you the inside scoop on the most high-quality writing contests to enter.

Are Writing Contests Worth Entering?

What are some writing contests that are free to enter, how can i increase my chances of winning, where can i find more writing contests.

Entering writing contests can be useful for several reasons:

• They give you a deadline and often even a prompt to write about , which many writers find motivating
• The results can help you get a sense of where you are on your writing journey and how you can improve your craft
• Winning a contest can be a fantastic boost to your journey as a writer

On the other hand, it’s important to keep in mind that it takes a lot of luck to win a contest, since there are usually only a few winners chosen from among hundreds of strong contestants.

If your goal is to get your writing published, you’ll likely fare better by submitting to magazines and anthologies than by entering contests.

Download our free eBook on how to publish your writing

If your goal is to make money, you should prioritize freelance writing jobs instead.

With that being said, there are many incredible writing contests out there that can absolutely be worth your while, as long as you enter with realistic expectations.

Many writing contests cost fees to enter, since they give out cash prizes and hire guest judges that they need to pay for their time.

Charging an entry fee doesn’t necessarily mean the contest is a scam. It does mean, however, that you need to be judicious about which contests to submit your work to.

Free writing contests are more accessible to all writers, and there’s nothing to lose from giving them a shot.

We’ve compiled a list of legitimate, high-quality writing contests that charge no entry fees.

Prose Weekly Challenge

Prose, a social network for readers and writers, offers weekly challenges meant to spark your creativity. This is a fun, low-stakes challenge, with a small cash prize to sweeten the deal.

Prize: Each week’s winner receives $100. Guidelines: Submit a short piece of writing (up to 500 words) related to the weekly prompt. Deadline: Weekly.

Prime Number Magazine 53-Word Story Contest

Press 53’s Prime Number Magazine hosts a monthly micro-fiction contest based on a theme.

All stories must be exactly 53 words long. There’s no cash prize, but this can be a fun and low-stakes contest to participate in if you’ve got some spare time and are looking for a writing prompt.

Prize: Publication, a free book from Press 53. Guidelines: Submit a 53-word story based on a monthly prompt. Open to writers around the world who write in English. Deadline: Monthly on the 15th of each month.

Dinesh Allirajah Prize for Short Fiction

The Dinesh Allirajah Prize for Short Fiction is an annual short story contest co-hosted by Comma Press and the University of Central Lancashire.

If you live in the UK and are interested in crime stories, this is a great contest to consider, with a £500 for the winner and publication for the runners-up.

Prize: £500 ($692) for first place, and publication for 10 shortlisted authors. Guidelines: Submit a short story (between 2,000 and 6,000 words). The theme for the 2022 Prize is "Crime Stories." Only residents of the UK age 18 or older are eligible. Deadline: October 29, 2021.

Commonwealth Short Fiction Prize

The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is an annual short fiction contest administered by the Commonwealth Foundation.

If you’re a short story writer and a citizen of a Commonwealth country, this contest is a fantastic option, with a generous £5,000 cash prize for the winner.

Prize: £5,000 ($6,922) for the overall winner and £2,500 ($3,461) for regional winners. Guidelines: Entrants must be citizens of a Commonwealth country and age 18 or over. Submit a short story (between 2,000 and 5,000 words). As well as English, stories are accepted in the Bengali, Chinese, French, Greek, Kiswahili, Malay, Portuguese, Samoan, Tamil, and Turkish languages. Translated entries from any language into English are also eligible. Deadline: November 1, 2021.

ServiceScape Short Story Award

ServiceScape is a platform that matches freelance writers, editors, and graphic designers with clients. They offer a yearly Short Story Award with a $1,000 prize.

Prize: $1,000 for first place and publication on the ServiceScape blog. Guidelines: Accepts original, unpublished work (5,000 words or fewer) in any genre, fiction or non-fiction. Writers must be age 18 or older. Deadline: November 29, 2021.

The Roswell Award

The Roswell Award is an annual science fiction contest with a $500 prize, co-presented by Sci-Fest L.A. and the Light Bringer Project.

This is a great option if you like using your writing to unite the worlds of science and art.

Prize: $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place. Guidelines: Submit a science fiction story. Open to writers around the world age 16 or older. Writers are encouraged to explore scientific, social, technological, environmental, and philosophical themes in their writing and always, at the core, to master the art of great storytelling. Deadline: December 21, 2021.

L. Ron Hubbard’s Writers of the Future Contest

The Writers of the Future Contest is the most enduring and influential contest in the history of science fiction and fantasy.

The contest is held once every three months, with a generous $1,000 prize.

Prize: $1,000 for first place, $750 for second place, and $500 for third place. Guidelines: Submissions must be short stories or novelettes (up to 17,000 words) in the genre of science fiction or fantasy. Open to new and amateur writers around the world. Deadline: Quarterly on December 31, March 31, June 30, and September 30.

Find Out More

Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award

The Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award is an annual contest, co-hosted by the National Space Society and Baen Books, for stories about manned space exploration.

If you’re interested in the role that science fiction plays in advancing real science, this is a great option that pays professional rates.

Prize: Professional paying rates (8 cents per word). The winner’s story will be published as the featured story on the Baen Books main website. The winner will also receive free entry into 2020 International Space Development Conference and a prize package with various Baen Books and National Space Society merchandise. Guidelines: Submit a short story (up to 8,000 words) that shows the near future (no more than about 50-60 years out) of manned space exploration. The judges want to see moon bases, Mars colonies, orbital habitats, space elevators, asteroid mining, artificial intelligence, nano-technology, realistic spacecraft, heroics, sacrifice, and/or adventure. Open to writers around the world who write in English. Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was February 1, 2021).

The Fountain Essay Contest

Fountain Magazine holds an annual contest for essays related to the personal challenges you’ve faced in your life.

Challenges can span from moving across the country and starting at a new high school or getting out of bed in the morning while undergoing depression. There are generous cash prizes for the winners.

Prize: $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place, $300 for third place, and $150 each for two honorable mentions. Guidelines: Submit a personal essay (between 1,500 and 2,500 words) on the annual theme. All writers worldwide are eligible. Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was March 1, 2021).

The Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize

Every year, The Alpine Fellowship awards writing, visual arts, and theater prizes related to an annual theme.

This is an extremely competitive fellowship, with global recognition for the winner and a whopping £10,000 first place prize.

Prize: £10,000 ($13,840) for first place, £3,000 ($4,150) for second place, and £2,000 ($2,770) for third place. Guidelines: Submit a piece of writing related to the annual theme (2021’s was "Untamed: On Wilderness and Civilization"). Entries must be unpublished and a maximum of 2,500 words. Poetry, prose, or non-academic essays welcome. Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was April 1, 2021).

Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest

The Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest is a contest for humor poems. This is a really fun contest if you like wordplay and witticisms, and you might even win $2,000.

Prize: $2,000 for first place, $500 for second place, and $100 each to 10 honorable mentions. Guidelines: Writers of all ages can submit an original, humorous poem with 250 lines or less. The poem you submit should be in English. Inspired gibberish is also accepted. Deadline: April 1, 2022.

Parsec Short Story Contest

Parsec Ink holds an annual contest for science fiction, fantasy, and horror short stories from non-professional writers, with a small cash prize for the winners.

Prize: $200 for first place, $100 for second place, and $50 for third place. Guidelines: Submit a short story (up to 3,500 words) based on the annual theme. The 2022 theme has not yet been announced. (The 2021 theme was "Still Waters, Deep Thoughts"). Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was April 15, 2021).

Bacopa Literary Review Contest

Bacopa Literary Review is an international journal published by the Writers Alliance of Gainesville. They hold an annual contest that welcomes fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction.

Prize: $300 for first place and $100 for second place in each of four genres: Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Poetry, and Prose Poetry. Guidelines: Submit a piece of writing in one of the four genres. You can find detailed guidelines for each genre on the website. Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was May 31, 2021).

Stony Brook Southampton Short Fiction Prize

The Stony Brook Southampton Short Fiction Prize is a short story contest specifically for college students.

If you’re an undergraduate and want to try a writing contest, this is a fantastic option because you have a smaller set of competitors.

Prize: $1,000, a scholarship to the 2021 Southampton Writers’ Conference, and consideration for publication in TSR: The Southampton Review . Guidelines: Only full-time undergraduates in United States and Canadian universities and colleges are eligible. Submissions must be short fiction (7,500 words or less). Deadline: June 1, 2022.

Insecure Writer’s Support Group Annual Anthology Contest

The Insecure Writer’s Support Group holds an annual contest for short stories based on a theme.

There’s no cash prize, but all winning stories are published in their anthology, and you can receive royalties from sales.

Prize: Winning stories will be edited and published, and authors will receive royalties from the anthology. Guidelines: Submit a short story (between 5,000 and 6,000 words) related to the annual theme. Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was September 1, 2021).

Hektoen Grand Prix Essay Contest

Hektoen International, an online journal dedicated to medical humanities, holds an annual contest for essays related to medicine, with a generous $5,000 cash prize.

Prize: $5,000 for the winner and $2,500 for the runner-up. Guidelines: Submit a short essay (up to 1,500 words) on any topic so long as it has a relation to medicine. The essay can include art, history, literature, education, and more. Writers must be age 18 or older. Deadline: TBD 2022 (the previous year’s deadline was September 15, 2021).

Owl Canyon Press Short Story Hackathon

Owl Canyon Press holds an annual “ hackathon ” for 20-paragraph stories, with a $1,000 prize.

The contest provides the first and last paragraph and the short story writer crafts the rest.

Prize: $1,000 for first place, $750 for second place, and $500 for third place. Publication in a short story anthology for 24 finalists. Guidelines: Writers are invited to create and submit a short story consisting of 20 paragraphs. The contest provides the 1st and 20th paragraphs, and the short story writer crafts the rest. There is no entry fee for submissions received during the first month of the contest. Deadline: TBD 2022 (last year’s deadline was September 30, 2020).

Transitions Abroad Expatriate and Work Abroad Writing Contest

The Transitions Abroad Writing Contest is an annual contest for essays related to your experience abroad. If you’ve ever lived and worked abroad, this is a great contest with a $500 cash prize.

Prize: $500 for first place, $150 for second place, $100 for third place, and $50 for all finalists. Guidelines: Submit a practical and inspiring essay or mini-guide (between 1,200 and 5,000 words) that provides in-depth descriptions of your experience moving, living, and working abroad (including any form of work such as teaching English, internships, volunteering, short-term jobs, etc.). The contest is open to writers from any location around the globe. Deadline: TBD 2022 (last year’s deadline was October 15, 2020).

Writing Battle Summer Flash Fiction

Writing Battle is a quarterly contest where writers are assigned prompts and have 2 days to write 1000 words. You are guaranteed feedback from you writing peers, plus you can win some money

Prize: $5,000 split between the four winners and publication.

Guidelines: Accepts original, unpublished work that matches the prompts and genre assigned. Writers must be aged 18 or older.

Deadline: August 7, 2022

Atlas Shrugged Novel Essay Contest

The Atlas Shrugged novel essay contest is open to all students globally. Atlas Shrugged is a heroic mystery novel written by Ayn Rand. Choose a prompt and write a 800-1,600 word essay in English. First prize: $10,000; 3 second prizes: $2,000; 5 third prizes: $1,000; 25 finalists: $100; 50 semi-finalists: $50.

Prize: First prize: $10,000, 3 second prizes: $2,000, 5 third prizes: $1,000, 25 finalists: $100, 50 semi-finalists: $50.

Guidelines: Choose a prompt and write an 800–1,600 word essay in English. All students globally can apply.

Deadline: Annually on November 6

Each of these contests has different requirements. What works for one probably will not work for another.

But what will increase your chance in every contest is good grammar and a solid structure. This is where ProWritingAid can help.

We may not be able to write your story for you, but we can help you submit your best work.

ProWritingAid’s 25 reports provide personalized, in-depth feedback on everything from grammar and spelling to pacing, word choice, passive voice, and more.

Sign up for a free account to see how ProWritingAid can help you.

There are many resources for writers that compile lists of writing contests. You should check these regularly, as different writing contests have different submission periods.

Some of my favorite resources include:

• Poets & Writers
• Winning Writers

With many writers’ sites, you can filter for free contests specifically, and you can also filter by the type of work you want to submit.

I usually check these sites once a season (fall, winter, spring, summer) to compile a list of the contests I want to submit to.

Do you have a favorite writing contest? Let us know in the comments.

FREE WEBINAR: How to Improve Your Chances of Winning the Debut Dagger , Nov 11, 2pm ET / 7pm UK

Have you been thinking about entering your story for the CWA Debut Dagger this year? The deadline isn’t until the end of February but we want to help you prepare.

We’ve invited Dea Parkin, Secretary of the Crime Writers’ Association, and Leigh Russell, Chair of the Debut Dagger judges, to come and share their insider information. Learn what the judges are looking for and how to give your story the best shot at winning.

Be confident about grammar

Check every email, essay, or story for grammar mistakes. Fix them before you press send.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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Essay Writing Contests: The Ultimate List of 2024

Did you know that the very first recorded essay contest can be traced back to the early 16th century, initiated by none other than the renowned philosopher and essayist Michel de Montaigne? In 1580, Montaigne published his collection of essays titled 'Essais,' which not only marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of the essay as a literary form but also contained an implicit challenge to his readers. He encouraged them to engage with his ideas and respond by writing their own essays, essentially laying the groundwork for what we now recognize as essay contests.

Fast forward to the vibrant year of 2024, and this tradition of writing competitions has evolved into a global phenomenon, offering emerging writers from all walks of life a captivating platform to share their thoughts, emotions, and narratives with the world.

In this article, our essay writer will review essay writing contests, presenting you with an exclusive selection of the most promising opportunities for the year ahead. Each of these competitions not only provides a stage to demonstrate your writing prowess but also offers a unique avenue for personal growth, self-expression, and intellectual exploration, all while competing for impressive writing awards and well-deserved recognition.

Top Essay Writing Contests in 2024

If you enjoy expressing your thoughts and ideas through writing, you're in for a treat. Essay writing competitions in 2024 offer you a chance to do just that and win some great prizes in the process. We've put together a list of contests specially designed for students like you. These contests cover various interesting essay topics , giving you a unique opportunity to showcase your writing skills and potentially earn cash prizes or scholarships. So, let's jump right into these fantastic opportunities.

2024 International Literary Prize by Hammond House Publishing

The 2024 Writing Competition beckons writers with over £3000 in cash prizes, publication opportunities in anthologies, and a chance to participate in a televised Award Ceremony. Sponsored by the University Centre Grimsby, this annual contest, now in its eighth year, draws entries from approximately 30 countries worldwide. Entrants can vie for prizes across four categories, gaining exposure at the televised award ceremony and receiving expert feedback at the annual literary festival.

And if you're determined to learn how to overcome writer's block for this contest, we have a wealth of expert tips and strategies to guide you through the process!

Deadline: 30th September 2024

• 1st Prize: £1000
• 2nd Prize: £100
• 3rd Prize: £50

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International Voices in Creative Nonfiction Competition by Vine Leaves Press

Vine Leaves Press welcomes writers worldwide, prioritizing voices from marginalized communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities, among others. Submissions, which must be in English and previously unpublished, are accepted from February 1, 2024, until July 1, 2024. Manuscripts can be either narrative (50,000 – 80,000 words) or experimental (at least 100 pages), adhering to specific formatting guidelines, including anonymity to ensure impartial judging. Each submission requires a $25 entry fee via Submittable, and multiple entries are allowed. Entries will be judged based on originality, creativity, writing quality, and adherence to genre, with finalists announced in October 2024, shortlisted in January 2025, and winners in March 2025.

Deadline: July 01, 2024

• The winner will receive a cash prize of $1000.
• Publication of the winning manuscript will occur in 2026 by Vine Leaves Press.
• Runners-up will also be considered for publication.

Solas Awards by Best Travel Writing

The Solas Awards, continuing a tradition since 1993, celebrate travel stories that inspire. They're looking for engaging tales that capture the essence of exploration, whether funny, enlightening, or adventurous. Winners may get published and join a community of fellow storytellers. Entries in essay, non-fiction, and travel genres are welcome with a $25 submission fee.

Deadline: September 21, 2024

• $1,000 Gold
• $750 Silver
• $500 Bronze

Vocal Challenges by Creatd

Vocal, in partnership with Voices in Minor (ViM), announces a creator-led challenge in celebration of International Women's Day, open to all Vocal creators. Participants are invited to write a 600-800 word piece about a woman who has inspired them for International Women's Day in the Year of the Dragon 2024. Submissions must adhere to specific length criteria and can be of any genre or format. Vocal will review entries and create a shortlist, from which ViM will select two co-grand prize winners and ten runners-up.

Deadline: Mar 12, 2024

• 2 Co-Grand Prizes: $200
• 10 Runners-up: $20

Cambridge Re:think Essay Competition 2024

The Re:think Essay Competition welcomes students aged 14 to 18 worldwide to participate in crafting essays under 2000 words, following MLA 8 citation style, with submissions undergoing plagiarism and AI checks. Essay prompts cover diverse themes, such as the role of women in STEM , provided by distinguished professors from prestigious institutions like Harvard, Brown, UC Berkeley, Cambridge, Oxford, and MIT. To maintain anonymity during review, submissions should be in PDF format without personal details.

Deadline : 10th May, 2024

• Gold: $150 cash, $500 CCIR scholarship, digital certificate, interview, Cambridge invite.
• Silver: $100 cash, $300 CCIR scholarship, digital certificate, interview, Cambridge invite.
• Bronze: $50 cash, $200 CCIR scholarship, digital certificate, interview, Cambridge invite.

The Hudson Prize by Black Lawrence Press

Each year, Black Lawrence Press presents The Hudson Prize, inviting submissions for an unpublished collection of poems or prose. This competition is open to writers at all stages of their careers, offering the winner book publication, a $1,000 cash prize, and ten copies of the published book. Entries are read blind by a panel of editors, requiring manuscripts to adhere to specific formatting guidelines, including pagination and font choice. Poetry manuscripts should be 45-95 pages, while prose manuscripts should range from 120-280 pages.

Deadline : March 31, 2024

• Top prize $1,000

Irene Adler Prize by Lucas Ackroyd

Introducing The Irene Adler Prize essay writing contest, offering a $1,000 US scholarship to the winner, with up to two $250 awards for honorable mentions. Open to women pursuing bachelor’s, master’s, or Ph.D. degrees in journalism, creative writing, or literature worldwide, regardless of age. Unlike previous years, this year's competition welcomes applicants from any country. The application period runs from January 30, 2024, to May 30, 2024, with no late submissions accepted. Each application requires a 500-word essay on one of five provided prompts and a completed entry form, both submitted via email.

Deadline : May 30, 2024

• 2x honorable mentions: $250

100 Word Writing Contest by Tadpole Press

With a doubled first-place prize of $2,000 USD, participants are invited from all corners of the globe, regardless of age, gender, or nationality. Pen names are accepted, and winning entries will be published under those names. Previously published pieces are also welcome, with no restrictions. Any genre is accepted, with the theme centered around creativity. Each entry must be 100 words or less, including the title.

Deadline : April 30, 2024

• 1st place: $2,000 USD.
• 2nd place: Writing coaching package valued at $450 USD.
• 3rd place: Developmental and diversity editing package valued at $250 USD.

African Diaspora Awards 2024 by Kinsman Avenue Publishing, Inc

The African Diaspora Award 2024 seeks original works from Afro-descendants, including short stories, flash fiction, essays, poetry, or visual art. Winners can earn up to $1000 USD and publication in Kinsman Quarterly and "Black Butterfly: Voices of the African Diaspora." Submissions reflecting cultural themes are due by June 30, 2024. Authors retain copyrights, and entrants must be 18 or older. No plagiarism is allowed, and Kinsman Quarterly employees cannot enter. Various genres are accepted with specific word count limits.

Deadline : June 30, 2024

• Grand Prize: $1000 cash and publication in Kinsman Quarterly & anthology.
• 1st Runner Up: $300 cash and publication 
• 2nd Runner Up: $200 cash and publication 
• 3rd Runner Up: $50 cash and publication
• Top 6 Finalists: $25 Amazon gift card and publication 
• 6 Honorary Mentions: Publication in Kinsman Quarterly & anthology.

Work-In-Progress (WIP) Contest by Unleash Press

The Unleash WIP Award 2024 offers $500, feedback, coaching, and a feature in Unleash Lit to help writers with their book projects in fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. All writers can apply. So, if you're looking for resources like free Harvard online courses to hone your writing skills, consider entering this competition. Submissions of the first 25 pages and answers to questions are due by July 15, 2024. Multiple entries are okay, but follow the rules, especially keeping your submission anonymous. Unleash also welcomes previously self-published works.

Deadline : July 15, 2024

• Top prize: $500
• Additional prizes: Coaching, interview, and editorial support

Aurora Polaris Creative Nonfiction Award by Trio House Press

Open to all writers, the poetry manuscripts should be 48-70 pages, and the prose manuscripts should be up to 80,000 words. Submissions must be from U.S. residents and must be original works. AI-generated submissions and translations are not eligible. Manuscripts should be sent as a single Word doc. or docx. file with no identifying information, and a cover letter with bio and contact details should be uploaded separately.

Deadline: May 15, 2024

• $1,000, publication, and 20 books

Poetry & Spoken Word Competition 2024 by Write the World

Young writers aged 13 to 19.5 are invited to enter this upcoming competition, with submissions of 50 to 500 words. Inspired by Audrey Lorde's words and the power of poetry, participants are encouraged to craft original poems or spoken word pieces advocating for change and self-expression. Winners, including top prizes for written and recorded performances, will be announced on June 14. Malika Booker, a renowned British poet, serves as the guest judge. To enter, writers should sign up on Write the World, respond to the prompt, and submit their final entries before the deadline.

Deadline : May 27, 2024

• Best entry: $100
• Best Peer Review: $50

Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award

The Killer Nashville essay writing contests seek to uncover new talent and recognize outstanding works by established authors, aiming to introduce their works to a broader audience. With numerous fiction and non-fiction categories available, writers have the opportunity to showcase their talent across a wide range of genres. The top prize includes a $250 award, and entry requires a fee of $79. Genres eligible for entry encompass crime, essay, fantasy, fiction, humor, memoir, mystery, non-fiction, novel, poetry, science fiction, script writing, short story, and thriller.

Deadline : June 15, 2024

• Top prize: $250

Journalism Competition 2024 by Write the World

In this upcoming competition, young writers aged 13 to 19.5 are invited to participate, with entries ranging from 400 to 1000 words. Participants are tasked with exploring and reporting on significant events within their own country, fostering a deeper understanding of local issues. Optional draft submissions for expert review are available until July 8, with feedback returned to writers by July 12. Winners will be announced on August 9. To enter, writers must sign up for a free account on Write the World, respond to the prompt, and submit their final entries before the deadline.

Deadline : July 22, 2024

National Essay Contest by U.S. Institute of Peace

This year, AFSA is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the United States Foreign Service. They've been involved in important events throughout history, like making decisions about war and peace, supporting human rights, and responding to disasters. Now, AFSA wants students to think about the future of diplomacy. They're asking students to imagine how diplomats can adapt to the changing world and its challenges. It's a chance for students to explore how diplomacy can continue to make a difference in the world.

Deadline : April 01, 2024

• Top prize: $2,500
• Additional prizes: Runner-up: $1,250

In 2023, the world of writing competitions offers a diverse tapestry of opportunities for writers across the globe. From exploring the depths of nature to delving into the mysteries of microfiction, these competitions beckon with enticing prizes and platforms for your creative voice. So, pick your favorite, sharpen your pen, and embark on a journey of literary excellence!

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Your Ultimate Guide to Writing Contests Through 2024

Regardless where you are on your writing journey, you can benefit from entering contests.

The right contest can tell you:

• Where you stand
• How you measure up against the competition
• What you still need to learn

And you could win cash.

That’s why my team researched a wide range of high-quality contests. We’ve included free competitions and also many with modest entry fees.

• Short Story Writing Contests
• Full Manuscript Writing Contests
• Poetry Writing Contests

Great American Fiction Contest

Prize: 1st: $1,000, publication in The Saturday Evening Post

Runners-up (5): $200

Entry Fee: $10

Deadline: TBD 2024 (Annual Contest)

Sponsor: The Saturday Evening Post

From Website: “Unpublished short stories of 1,500 to 5,000 words in any genre touching on the publication’s mission, “Celebrating America—past, present, and future.” No extreme profanity or graphic sex. Work published on a personal website or blog is still eligible.”

SiWC Writing Contest

Prize: 1st: $1,000 plus publication

Honorable Mention: $150

Entry Fee: $15

Deadline: September 15, 2024

Sponsor: Surrey International Writers’ Conference

From Website: “Short stories in any genre must be 2,500-4,000 words. All submissions must contain original material and may not have been previously published, accepted for publication, or have been a winner in another contest prior to the deadline.”

WOW / Women On Writing Quarterly Flash Fiction Competition

Prize: 1st: $400, $25 Amazon gift certificate

2nd: $300, $25 Amazon gift certificate

3rd: $200, $25 Amazon gift certificate

Runners-up (7): $25 Amazon gift certificate

Honorable mentions (10): $20 Amazon gift certificate

Entry Fee: $10 (or $20 with feedback)

Deadline: Quarterly (next deadline February 2, 2024)

Sponsor: WOW / Women On Writing

From Website: “Runs four times a year and is open to all styles and genres. Closes each quarter after 300 entries have been received, or at the deadline. WOW also runs a quarterly nonfiction essay competition with cash prizes.”

Bristol Short Story Prize

Prize: 1st: £1,000 (~$1,242)

2nd: £500 (~$621)

3rd: £250 (~$310)

Shortlisted (17): £100 (~$124)

Entry Fee: £9 (~$11)

Deadline: TBD 2024

Sponsor: Bristol Short Story Prize

From Website: “Open to all published and unpublished writers 16 and up. No geographical restriction, but all entries must be in English. Maximum length 4,000 words (not including title). No minimum length. Stories can be on any subject.”

Aesthetica Creative Writing Award

Prize: £2,500 (~$3,105)

Winners also receive further non-monetary prizes including publication in the Aesthetica Creative Writing Annual.

Entry Fee: £18 (~$22) (Poetry Category entry fee is ~$15) 

Deadline: August 31, 2024

Sponsor: Aesthetica Magazine

From Website: “Fiction entries should be no more than 2,000 words. Works published or entered elsewhere are accepted. Any theme accepted. You may enter as many times as you wish, however, each work requires a separate fee and submission form.”

The Lascaux Prize

Prize: $1,000

Finalists receive $100

Deadline: June 20, 2024

Sponsor: The Lascaux Review

“Flash Fiction and Creative Nonfiction categories. 

Flash fiction entries should not exceed 1,000 words. All genres and styles welcome. 

From Website: “Creative nonfiction entry length must not exceed 10,000 words. All topics welcome but should be written in a nonacademic style. May include memoirs, chronicles, personal essays, humorous perspectives, literary journalism—anything the author has witnessed, experienced, learned, or discovered.”

The Alpine Fellowship Writing Prize

Prize: First place: £3,000 cash grant (~$3,726)

Second place: £1,000 travel expense (~$1,242)

Third place: £1,000 travel expense (~$1,242)

Entry Fee: Free

Deadline: March 1, 2024

Sponsor: The Alpine Fellowship

From Website: “Entries must fit the annual theme. Maximum of 2,500 words. All genres of writing are permitted, including fiction, non-fiction, and non-academic essays. Open to all nationalities but must be written in English. Stories must not have been published, self-published or accepted for publication in print or online. No entries that have won or been placed in another competition at any time.”

ServiceScape Short Story Award

Deadline: November 29, 2024

Sponsor: ServiceScape

From Website: “All entries must be original, unpublished works of short fiction or nonfiction, up to 5,000 words in length. Any genre or theme accepted.”

Bacopa Literary Review Contest

Prize: $200 Award 

$100 Honorable Mention in each of six categories

Sponsor: The Writers Alliance of Gainesville

From Website: “Awards in 6 categories (contestants may submit to only ONE category). Fiction (up to 2,500 words), Creative Nonfiction (up to 2,500 words), Humor (up to 2,000 words), Formal Poetry (1-3 poems), Free Verse Poetry (1-2 poems), Visual Poetry (1 poem).”

Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award

Prize: $.08 per word and publication

Deadline: February 1, 2024

Sponsor: National Space Society and Baen Books

From Website: “Write a short story of no more than 8,000 words, that shows the near future (no more than about 50-60 years out) of manned space exploration. What they want to see: Moon bases, Mars colonies, orbital habitats, space elevators, asteroid mining, artificial intelligence, nano-technology, realistic spacecraft, heroics, sacrifice, and adventure.”

Parsec Short Story Contest

Prize: First place: $200 and publication in the Confluence program book. 

Second place: $100 

Third place: $50 

Best Youth Story: $50

Deadline: March 31st, 2024

Sponsor: Parsec, Inc.

From Website: “Each annual contest is based on a theme provided. This can be conveyed in the setting, plot, characters, and dialogue; the only limit is your imagination. The theme must be integral to the story in some way and not just mentioned in passing. No minimum word count, no more than 3500 words. The 2024 Contest theme is ‘AI mythology.’” 

The Raymond Carver Short Story Contest

Prize: First place: $2000 

Second place: $500 

Third place: $250 

Two Editor’s Choice: $125

Entry Fee: $18

Deadline: May 15, 2024

Sponsor: Carve Magazine

From Website: “One short story per entry. No limit to entries. Must be previously unpublished (including online) with a 10,000 maximum word count. We accept entries from anywhere in the world, but the story must be English-language. No genre fiction (romance, horror, sci-fi); literary fiction only.”

Blurred Genres Flash Contest

Prize: First Place: $750 

Second Place: $350 

Third Place: $150 

Publication of Top Five

Sponsor: Invisible City (University of San Francisco)

From Website: “Based on a theme (for example last year’s theme was “Levity”) that can be interpreted through prose, poetry, or some combination of the two. All genres and themes are welcome. Contest submissions must be 750 words or less and can be flash fiction/nonfiction, prose poetry, or some unique combination of the three. Submissions must be the original work of the submitter and unpublished (and not slated for future publication).”

Imagine 2200: Write the future

Prize: First Place: $3,000

Second Place: $2,000 

Third Place: $1,000

An additional nine finalists will each receive $300 

All winners and finalists will have their stories published in an immersive collection on Grist’s website

Sponsor: Grist

From Website: “Imagine 2200 is an invitation to writers from all over the globe to imagine a future in which solutions to the climate crisis flourish and help bring about radical improvements to our world. 3,000 to 5,000 word stories envisioning a world where we prioritize our well-being, work to mend our communities, and lead lives that celebrate our humanity.”

The Elegant Literature Award For New Writers

Prize: First place: $3,000 and 10c/word and publication. Free enrollment in the New Novelist Accelerator.

Second – Tenth: 10c/word and publication.

Eleventh – Thirty-fifth: $20 and an honorable mention in the magazine

Entry Fee: Requires Elegant+ Membership ($9.99 a month)

Deadline: Ongoing (monthly)

Sponsor: Elegant Literature Magazine

From Website: “Write a story involving annual theme. New or unpublished authors may enter. Word count is 500-2000. All genres are welcome as long as it involves the theme.”

F(r)iction Contests

Prize: $300.00 and consideration for publication in F(r)iction

Entry Fee: $10 for a single entry, $12 for three entries

Deadline: April 30, 2024

Sponsor: F(r)iction

From Website: “Competitions in several categories, short stories (1,001 – 7,500 words), flash fiction (up to 1,000 words), and Poetry (up to three pages per poem). Entries are accepted regardless of genre, style, or origin. Experimental, nontraditional, and boundary-pushing literature is strongly encouraged. Their guidelines include the phrase ‘Strange is good.’”

Manchester Fiction Prize

Prize: £10,000 (~$12,420)

Entry Fee: £18 (~$22) 

100 reduced-price (£10 or ~$13) entries are available to entrants who might not otherwise be able to take part in the competition.

Sponsor: Manchester Metropolitan University

From Website: “The Manchester Fiction Prize asks for a short story of up to 2,500 words in length. Stories submitted should be new work, not previously published elsewhere. The Prize is open internationally to those aged 16 or over.”  

Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition

Prize: Grand Prize $5000, an interview with them in Writer’s Digest (Nov/Dec 2023 issue) and on WritersDigest.com, a paid trip to the Writer’s Digest Annual Conference, including a special trophy presentation at the keynote, a coveted Pitch Slam slot at the Writer’s Digest Conference where the winner will receive one on one attention from editors or agents, and publication of their winning piece on WritersDigest.com

First Place: $1,000 and publication of their winning piece on WritersDigest.com

Second Place: $500 

Third Place: $250 

Fourth Place: $100 

Fifth Place: $50 

Sixth through Tenth Place: $25 gift certificate for writersdigestshop.com.

Entry Fee: $20-30 (varies depending on category)

Deadline: May 6, 2024 

Sponsor: Writer’s Digest

From Website: “Only original works that have not been published (at the time of submission) in print, digital, or online publications will be considered. Self-published work in blogs, on social media, etc. will be considered. For the script category, only unproduced scripts will be considered. Entries in the Nonfiction Essay or Article category may be previously published. All entries must be in English. Memoirs/Personal Essay, Nonfiction Essay or Article, and Children’s/Young Adult Fiction: 2,000 words maximum. Mainstream/Literary Short Story, Genre Short, Story, and Humor: 4,000 words maximum. Inspirational Writing: 2,500 words maximum. Rhyming Poem and Non-rhyming Poem: 40 lines maximum.”

Emerging Writer’s Contest

Prize: Publication, $2,000, review from Aevitas Creative Management, and a 1-year subscription for one winner in each of the three genres

Entry Fee: Free for subscribers to Ploughshares, $24 for nonsubscribers

Sponsor: Ploughshares (Emerson College)

From Website: “The contest is open to writers of fiction, nonfiction, and poetry who have yet to publish or self-publish a book. Fiction and Nonfiction: Under 6,000 words. Poetry: 3-5 pages.”

Wells Festival of Literature Short Story Competition

Prize: First Place £750 (~$932)

Second Place £300 (~$373)

Third Place: £200 (~$248)

Entry Fee: £6 (~$8)

Sponsor: Wells Festival of Literature

From Website: “Stories may be on any subject and should be between 1,000 and 2,000 words. All entries must be the exclusive and original work of the entrant. At the time of entry, the work submitted must not have been entered into any other Competition and must not have been published in any format or location.”

Anthology Short Story Competition

Prize: First Place: €1,000 (~$1098), the chance to see their work published in a future issue of Anthology, and a one-year subscription to Anthology 

Second Place: €250 (~$275)

Third Place: €150 (~$165)

Entry Fee: Early Bird: €12 (~$13)

Standard fee: €18 (~$20)

Deadline: July 31, 2024

Sponsor: Anthology Publishing

From Website: “Established to recognize and encourage creative writing and provide a platform for publication, the Anthology Short Story Competition is open to original and previously unpublished short stories in the English language by a writer of any nationality, living anywhere in the world. There is no restriction on theme or style. Stories submitted must not exceed the maximum of 1,500 words.” 

The Queen Mary Wasafiri New Writing Prize

Prize: £1,000 (~$1,246) and publication in Wasafiri’s print magazine

Entry Fee: £10 (~$12) for a single entry, £16 (~$20) for a double entry

Sponsor: Wasafiri Magazine 

From Website: “Exceptionally international in scope, the prize supports writers who have not yet published a book-length work, with no limits on age, gender, nationality, or background. No entry may exceed 3,000 words. A single poetry entry can include up to three poems, which together total no more than 3,000 words.”

2024 Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize

Prize: $1000 and a free 10-week course with Gotham Writers

Entry Fee: $25

Sponsor: Gotham Writers and Selected Shorts

From Website: “This long-running series at Symphony Space in New York City celebrates the art of the short story by having stars of stage and screen read aloud the works of established and emerging writers. Selected Shorts is recorded for Public Radio and heard nationally on both the radio and its weekly podcast.”

Robert and Adele Schiff Awards

Prize: $1,000 All entries will be considered for publication in The Cincinnati Review

Entry Fee: $20

Sponsor: The Cincinnati Review (University of Cincinnati)

From Website: “Writers may submit up to 8 pages of poetry, 40 pages of a single double-spaced piece of fiction, or 20 pages of a single double-spaced piece of literary nonfiction, per entry. Previously published manuscripts, including works that have appeared online (in any form), will not be considered. There are no restrictions as to form, style, or content; all entries will be considered for publication. Simultaneous submissions are acceptable under the condition that you notify us if your manuscript is accepted elsewhere.” 

Salamander 2024 Fiction Prize

Prize: First Place: $1,000 and Publication

 Second Place: $500 and Publication

Deadline: TBD 2024 

Sponsor: Salamander Magazine

From Website: “All entries will be considered for publication and will be judged anonymously. Each story must not exceed 30 double-spaced pages in 12-point font. Previously published works and works accepted for publication elsewhere cannot be considered. Salamander’s definition of publishing includes electronic publication.”

BOA Short Fiction Prize

Prize: $1,000 and publication by BOA Editions, Ltd.

Deadline: May 31, 2024

Sponsor: BOA Editions, Ltd.

From Website: “Entrants must be U.S. citizens, legal residents of the U.S., or have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), or Legal Permanent Status (LPS). Entrants must be at least 18 years of age. Minimum of 90 pages; maximum of 200 pages. Manuscript text should be at least 12 pt. font, double-spaced. As with all BOA fiction titles, our prize-winning short story collections are more concerned with the artfulness of writing than the twists and turns of plot. It is our belief that short story writing is a valuable and underserved literary form that we are proud to support, nurture, and celebrate.”

Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest

Prize: First Place: $3,000 

Entry Fee: $22

Deadline: May 1, 2024

Sponsor: Winning Writers (Co-sponsored by Duotrope)

From Website: “For this contest, a story is any short work of fiction, and an essay is any short work of nonfiction. All themes accepted. Entries may be published or unpublished. Length limit: 6,000 words maximum. No restriction on the age of the author.”

Gabriele Rico Challenge for Nonfiction

Prize: $1,333

Deadline: November 1, 2024

Sponsor: Reed Magazine

From Website: “C reative nonfiction, such as personal essays or narratives, not scholarly papers or book reviews. All works should be stand-alone essays, not chapters of a longer work. Previously published work is not eligible. Up to 5,000 words.”

53-Word Story Contest

Prize: Publication in Prime Number Magazine and a free book from Press 53.

Deadline: Ongoing. 15th of each month

Sponsor: Prime Number Magazine

From Website: “New prompt each month. Judges are looking for stories with a surprising approach to the prompt, something unusual and creative. Stories must be 53 words—no more, no less. Stories with fewer than or more than 53 words will be disqualified. Send only stories; poetry with line breaks will not be considered.”

Letter Review Prize for Short Fiction

Prizes: Three Winners are announced who are published and share in the $1000 USD total prize pool. Twenty writers are Longlisted. All entries considered for publication, and for submission to the Pushcart Prize and other anthologies.

Deadline: Awarded every two months

Sponsor: Letter Review

From Website: “Word Length: 0 – 5000 words. Open to anyone in the world. There are no genre or theme restrictions.”

Letter Review Prize for Nonfiction

Entry Fee: $20.

From Website: “0 – 5000 words. Open to anyone in the world. We welcome all forms of nonfiction including: Memoir, journalism, essay (including personal essay), fictocriticism, creative nonfiction, travel, nature, opinion, and many other permutations.”

University of New Orleans Press Lab Prize

Prize: $10,000 advance on royalties and a contract to publish with the University of New Orleans Press

Entry Fee: $28

Sponsor: University of New Orleans

From Website: “Entries must be unpublished novels or short story collections. The work does not have to be regionally focused. There is no word limit. There is no restriction on subjects covered. The contest is open to all authors from around the world, regardless of publishing history.  Works of fiction (novels and short story collections) only. Submissions must be your entire manuscript.”

The Bath Novel Awards 

Prize: Two £3,000 (~$3738) prizes are awarded annually for the best manuscript as judged by literary agents

All shortlistees win feedback on their full manuscript.

Entry Fee: £29 (~$36)

Deadline: May 31st 2024

Sponsor: The Bath Novel Award (co-sponsored by Cornerstones Literary Consultancy and Professional Writing Academy)

From Website: “Submit the opening 5,000 words plus one-page synopsis of novel manuscripts for adults or young adults. Completed works must be over 50,000 words. Novels can be for adult or young adult readers and any genre. Must be your original work and submitted in English. Novels can be unpublished, self-published, or independently published.”

The Times/Chicken House Competition

Prize:  First Place: worldwide publishing contract with Chicken House with a royalty advance of £10,000 (~$12,459), plus an offer of representation by this year’s agent judge, Davinia Andrew-Lynch of Curtis Brown. 

Second Place: Lime Pictures New Storyteller Award. A publishing contract with a royalty advance of £7,500 (~$9,344) plus an offer of representation by Davinia Andrew-Lynch.

Entry Fee: £20 (~$25)

Deadline: June 1, 2024

Sponsor: The Times and Chicken House 

From Website: “To enter, you must have written a completed full-length novel suitable for children/young adults aged somewhere between 7 and 18 years. A minimum of 30,000 words and a maximum of 80,000 words suggested.”

The Dzanc Books Prize for Fiction

Prize: $5,000 advance and publication by Dzanc Books

Deadline: September 30, 2024

Sponsor: Dzanc Books

From Website: “The Dzanc Books Prize for Fiction recognizes daring, original, and innovative novels (generally over 40,000 words, but there is no hard minimum). The contest is open to new, upcoming, and established writers alike. Agented submissions are also eligible, and we ask that you include all agency contact information with the application. All submitted works must be previously unpublished novel-length manuscripts and should include a brief synopsis, author bio, and contact information.”

Claymore Award

Prize: Discounted admission to Killer Nashville International Writers’ Conference, with introductions to agents/editors (And probably publishing contract)

Entry Fee: $45 (Full critique included for $125)

Deadline: April 1, 2024

Sponsor: Killer Nashville

From Website: “The contest is limited to only the first 50 double-spaced pages of unpublished English-language manuscripts containing elements of thriller, mystery, crime, or suspense NOT currently under contract. These can include Action Adventure, Comedy, Cozy, Historical, Investigator, Juvenile/YA, Literary, Mainstream/Commercial, Mystery, Nonfiction, Sci-fi/Fantasy, Short Story Collections, Southern Gothic, Supernatural, Suspense, Thriller, and Western manuscripts, and any of their derivatives. (Self-published manuscripts are considered already published and are not eligible.)”

St. Martin’s Minotaur / Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Competition

Prize: Publication and a $10,000 advance

Sponsor: Minotaur Books and Mystery Writers of America

From Website: “Open to any writer, regardless of nationality, aged 18 or older, who has never been the author of any published novel and is not under contract with a publisher for publication of a novel. All Manuscripts submitted must be original works of book length (no less than 220 typewritten pages or approximately 60,000 words), written in the English language, written solely by the entrant, and must not violate any right of any third party or be libelous. Murder or another serious crime is at the heart of the story.”

The Restless Books Prize for New Immigrant Writing

Prize: $10,000 advance and publication

Sponsor: Restless Books

From Website: “Created in 2015 to honor outstanding debut literary works by first-generation immigrants, awarded for fiction and nonfiction in alternating years. Fiction manuscripts must be complete. Nonfiction submissions must consist of either a complete manuscript or a sample of at least 25,000 words and a detailed proposal that includes a synopsis and an annotated table of contents. All submissions must be in English (translations welcome). Fiction candidates must not have previously published a book of fiction in English. Nonfiction candidates must not have previously published a book of nonfiction in English.”

New American Fiction Prize

Prize: $1,500 and a book contract, as well as 25 author’s copies and promotional support

Deadline: January 15, 2024

Sponsor: New American Press

From Website: “Manuscripts should be at least 100 pages, but there is no maximum length. All forms and styles of full-length fiction manuscripts are welcome, including story collections, novels, novellas, collections of novellas, flash fiction collections, novels in verse, and other hybrid forms.”

Your Next Best Read

Prize: First Place (Fiction & Nonfiction): $100 Cash Price, 6-month Advertising Package, Press Release, Editorial Review, Newsletter Announcement, Promotional Creatives

Second Place Awards (Fiction & Nonfiction): 6-month Advertising Package, Editorial Review, Newsletter Announcement

Third Place (Fiction & Nonfiction): 3-month Advertising Package, Editorial Review, Newsletter Announcement

Deadline: May 5, 2024

Sponsor: Excalibre Publishing

From Website: “ The contest is open to writers of all backgrounds, ages, and nationalities. Both published and unpublished works are welcome. We encourage submissions in various/ALL genres –  fiction, non-fiction, poetry (submit in nonfiction), and short stories. No specific wordcount requiered. Submissions must be in English.”

Letter Review Prize for Manuscripts

Prizes: Three Winners are announced who have a brief extract published, receive a letter of recommendation from our Judges for publishers, and share in the $1000 USD total prize pool. Twenty writers are Longlisted.

Entry Fee: $25.

Deadline: Awarded Every two months

From Website: “Please submit the first 5000 words of your manuscript, whether it be prose or poetry. Open to anyone in the world. The entry must not have been traditionally published. We are seeking all varieties of novels, short story collections, nonfiction, and poetry collections. We will accept manuscripts which are unpublished, self published, and some which are indie published. Review full entry guidelines for further details.”

2nd place in fiction & non-fiction $750 cash prize and trophy

3rd place in fiction & non-fiction $500 cash prize and trophy

Winner of each of the 80+ categories $100 cash prize and gold medal

Stan and Tom Wick Poetry Prize

Prize: $2,500 plus publication

Entry Fee: $30

Sponsor: Kent State University Press

From Website: “Offered annually to a poet who has not previously published a full-length collection of poems. The winner and the competition’s judge will give a reading together on the Kent State campus. The competition is open to poets writing in English who have not yet published a full-length collection of poems (a volume of 50 or more pages published in an edition of 500 or more copies).”

Blue Lynx Prize for Poetry

Prize: $2,000 plus publication

Sponsor: Lynx House Press

From Website: “Awarded for an unpublished, full-length volume of poems by a U.S. author, which includes foreign nationals living and writing in the U.S. and U.S. citizens living abroad. Manuscripts may include poems that have appeared in journals, magazines, or chapbooks. Poems that have previously appeared in full-length, single-author collections, are not eligible.”

Ó Bhéal Five Words International Poetry Competition

Prize: First Place: €750 ($890) 

Second Place: €500 ($590) 

Third Place: €250 ($295)

Entry Fee: €5 ($6)

Deadline: Every Tuesday at 12pm (Irish time) from April 11, 2023 – January 30, 2024

Sponsor: Ó Bhéal

From Website: “Five words will be posted on this competition page. Entrants will have one week to compose and submit one or more poems which include all five words given for that week. Entry is open to all countries. Poems cannot exceed 50 lines in length (including line breaks), and must include all five words listed for the week.”

Letter Review Prize for Poetry

Prizes: Three Winners are announced who are published and share in the $800 USD total prize pool. Twenty writers are Longlisted. All entries considered for publication, and for submission to the Pushcart Prize and other anthologies.

Entry Fee: $15.

From Website: “70 lines max per poem Open to anyone in the world. There are no style or subject restrictions.”

• Advice for Researching Writing Competitions

This list includes only a few of the many writing contests you can find online.

Here are some tips for looking into options on your own:

1. Narrow your search with details that are relevant to you, for example, “writing contests in Texas,” “writing contests for women authors,” or “writing contests for veterans.” 

2. Be genre-specific.

3. Include the year in your search to ensure the most up-to-date results. 

4. Carefully read the guidelines and eligibility requirements. 

5. Pay attention to the contest sponsor. Only submit to reputable hosts.  

Worried your writing isn’t quite ready to compete? Take my free writing assessment and see personalized guidance on how to improve your skills. https://jerryjenkins.com/quiz/

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• Writing Tips

7 Essay Writing Contests to Look Out For in 2023

• 7-minute read
• 28th December 2022

Essay contests are not only a great way to exercise your essay-writing skills but also an awesome way to win cash prizes, scholarships, and internship or program opportunities. They also look wonderful on college applications as awards and achievements.

In this article, you’ll learn about 7 essay writing contests to enter in 2023. Watch the video below, or keep reading to learn more.

1. Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest 

Deadline: Now–April 30, 3023

Who may enter:

This is an international contest for people of all ages (except for residents of Syria, Iran, North Korea, Crimea, Russia, and Belarus due to US government restrictions).

Contest description:

●  The contest is organized by Winning Writers, located in MA, USA.

●  They accept stories and essays on any theme, up to 6,000 words each. This contest defines a story as any short work of fiction and an essay as any short work of nonfiction.

●  Your stories and essays must be submitted in English.

●  You may submit published or unpublished work.

Entry fee: USD 22 per entry

●  Story: First Prize is USD 3,000.

●  Essay: First Prize is USD 3,000.

●  10 Honorable Mentions will receive USD 300 each (any category).

●  The top 12 entries will be published online.

Official website

Please visit the competition’s official website for more information on judges and submissions.

2. 2023 Calibre Essay Prize 

Deadline: Now–January 15, 2023, 11:59 pm

Who may enter: All ages and any nationality or residency are accepted.

●  This contest is hosted by the Australian Book Review.

●  Your essay must be between 2,000 and 5,000 words.

●  You may submit nonfiction essays of all kinds, e.g., personal, political, literary, or speculative.

●  You may enter multiple essays but will need to pay separate fees for each one.

●  Your essay must be unpublished.

Entry fee: AU 30 for non-members

Prize: AU 7,500

Official website:

For more information on this contest, please visit its official website.

3. John Locke Institute Essay Competition 

Deadline: June 30, 2023

●  Students from any country.

●  Students aged 15 to 18 years by the competition deadline.

●  Students aged 14 years or younger by the competition deadline are eligible for the Junior prize.

●  The contest is organized by the John Locke Institute.

●  Your essay cannot exceed 2,000 words.

●  There are seven subjects or categories for essay submissions: Philosophy, Politics, Economics, History, Psychology, Theology, and Law.

Entry fee: Free to enter

●  The best overall essay winner receives an honorary John Locke Fellowship, which comes with a USD 10,000 scholarship to attend one or more summer schools or gap year courses.

●  There is also a prize for the best essay in each category. The prize for each winner of a subject category and the Junior category is a scholarship worth USD 2,000 toward the cost of a summer program.

●  All winning essays will be published on the Institute’s website.

For more information about this competition and the John Locke Institute, please visit the official website . Also, be sure to check out our article on all you need to know about this contest.

4. The American Foreign Service Association 2023 Essay Competition 

Deadline: April 3, 2023

●  Students in grades 9–12 in any of the 50 states, DC, the US territories, or if they are US citizens or lawful permanent residents attending high school overseas.

●  Students attending a public, private, or parochial school.

●  Home-schooled students.

●  Your essay should be 1,000–1,500 words.

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●  You will select a country or region in which the United States Foreign Service has been involved at any point since 1924 and describe how the Foreign Service was successful or unsuccessful in advancing American foreign policy goals – including promoting peace – in this country or region and propose ways in which it might continue to improve those goals in the coming years.

●  Your essay should follow MLA guidelines.

●  Your essay should use a variety of sources.

●  The first-place winner receives USD 2,500, a paid trip to the nation’s capital from anywhere in the U.S. for the winner and their parents, and an all-expense-paid educational voyage courtesy of Semester at Sea.

●  The runner-up receives USD 1,250 and full tuition to attend a summer session of the National Student Leadership Conference’s International Diplomacy program.

Please visit the American Foreign Service website for more information.

5. The Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) 2023 Essay Contest 

Deadline: Mid-February 2023–June 1, 2023

Who may enter: High school (including homeschooled), college, and graduate students worldwide.

●  The 2023 essay contest topic is marriages and proposals.

●  High school students may focus on Pride and Prejudice only or bring in other Austen works.

●  Undergraduate and graduate students should discuss at least two Austen novels of their choice.

●  Your essay must be in MLA format and 6 to 8 pages (not including your Works Cited page).

●  Your essay must be written in English.

●  First place wins a USD 1,000 scholarship.

●  Second place wins a USD 500 scholarship.

●  Third place wins a USD 250 scholarship.

●  Winners will also receive one year of membership in JASNA, publication of their essays on this website, and a set of Norton Critical Editions of Jane Austen’s novels.

For more information and submission guidelines, please visit JASNA’s official website .

6. 2023 Writing Contest: Better Great Achievements by EngineerGirl

Deadline: February 1, 2023

●  Students in Grades 3–12. If international or homeschooled, please select your grade level based on if you were attending a public school in the U.S.

●  This contest is organized by EngineerGirl.

●  Students should write a piece that shows how female or non-white engineers have contributed to or can enhance engineering’s great achievements.

●  You should choose one of the 20 Greatest Engineering Achievements of the 20th Century as a topic and explore the technologies developed in the last century and the new ones being developed today. Make sure to follow the specific guidelines for your grade level.

●  Essays should be 650–750 words based on your grade level.

●  Please visit the contest’s website to see specific requirements based on your grade.

Winners in each grade category will receive the prizes listed below:

●  First-place winners will be awarded USD 500.

●  Second-place entries will be awarded USD 250 .

●  Third-place entries will be awarded USD 100 .

For more information and submission guidelines, please visit the official website .

7. World Historian Student Essay Competition

Deadline: May 1, 2023

Who may enter: Students enrolled in Grades K–12 in public, private, and parochial schools and home-study programs worldwide.

●  Your essay must address the following issue: In what way has the study of world history affected my understanding of the world in which I live?

●  Your essay should be 1,000 words.

Prizes: USD 500

For more information and submission requirements, please visit the contest’s official website.

Essay contests are a great way to expand your writing skills, discuss a topic that is important to you, and earn prize money and opportunities that will be great for you in the long term. Check out our articles on writing thesis statements, essay organization, and argumentative writing strategies to ensure you take first place every time.

If you need help with your essays and would like to make sure that every comma is in place, we will proofread your first 500 words for free !

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27 free writing contests with cash prizes.

These are contests for fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and plays. Prizes range from $100 to $72,000, and none of them charge an entry fee. They are, very roughly, divided geographically. – S. Kalekar

PRIZES OPEN FOR INTERNATIONAL WRITERS

Fourteen Hills: Stacey Doris Memorial Poetry Award This is a poetry contest – send one poem of 3 to 10 pages. Their guidelines say, “Stacy Doris was a poet, translator, and an Associate Professor in San Francisco State University’s Department of Creative Writing, where she taught for ten years. … Doris created new worlds with her unexpected poetics. Following upon her spirit of creative invention, engaging wit and ingenious playfulness, discovery in construction, and radical appropriations based on classical forms, pastiche, etc., and love, the Stacy Doris Memorial Poetry Award is given to a poet with a truly inventive spirit.” Works that don’t win will be considered for publication in Fourteen Hills.

Value: $500 Deadline: 1 January 2022 Open for: Unspecified Details here .

Defenestration.net Lengthy Poem Contest They are reading entries for a lengthy poem, of at least three 120 lines, or roughly chapbook-length (see guidelines). Poem cycles are accepted. They do not want prose poems. It is best to divide it into parts or sections, though this is not a strict requirement. Value: $300 Deadline: 1 January 2022 Open for: Unspecified Details here .

Martha Heasley Cox Center for Steinbeck Studies: Steinbeck Fellowships These are fellowships to help writers complete a book project. Up to six Steinbeck Fellows are selected each year from disciplines including fiction, creative non-fiction, biography, drama, and Steinbeck studies (no poetry). Also, “In awarding fellowships, the selection committee considers the quality of the candidate’s proposal and any factors that would lead to expectations of future publication and other achievement. The creative writing fellowship does not require that there be any direct connection between Steinbeck’s works and that of the applicant.“ Value: $15,000, residency at San José State University Deadline: 3 January 2022 Open for: Unspecified Details here

The Leon Levy Centre for Biography: Biography Fellowships These are four resident fellowships at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York City, to nonfiction writers working on biographies. preference in the award of fellowships is given to those who have not yet published a biography or received fellowships for the writing of a biography. We also welcome applications from published and accomplished writers who are undertaking their first biography. The Leon Levy Center for Biography does not award fellowships for memoirs, essays, plays, films, or fiction. One of the application requirements is a sample of the proposed biography, a maximum of 2,500 words. (Also see the Sloan Fellowship , given annually to a writer working on a biography of a figure in the field of science or technology.) Value: $72,000, residency Deadline: 4 January 2022 Open for: Writers working on biographies Details here

Walter Muir Whitehill Prize in Early American History This prize is for an essay on early American history (up to 1826), not previously published, with preference being given to New England subjects. Essays should be 40-60 pages, and can be emailed or mailed. Value: $2,500 Deadline: 15 January 2022 (postmarked) Open for: Unspecified Details here

Lilith Magazine Fiction Contest This magazine publishes work of interest to Jewish women. They like work with both feminist and Jewish content. Submit up to 3,000 words. Value: $250 Deadline: 15 January 2022 (extended) Open for: All writers Details here

The Hillman Prize for Journalism This is for journalists who pursue investigative reporting and deep storytelling in service of the common good. Recipients exemplify reportorial excellence, storytelling skill, and social justice impact. The categories are:   Book (bound volumes and ebooks), Newspaper Journalism (story or series/in print or online),  Magazine Journalism (story or series/in print or online), Broadcast Journalism (story/series/documentary that has aired on television or radio), Web Journalism (story/series or multimedia that did not appear in print) , and  Opinion  &  Analysis Journalism (any medium)   – includes all types of advocacy, opinion, commentary and analysis, normally short-form and/or frequent, regardless of medium; open to newspaper and magazine columnists, TV and radio presenters, podcasters, blogs, and bloggers. The US prize is open to all journalists and subjects globally but the work must have been primarily accessible to a US audience; the Canadian prize, too, is open to all journalists and subjects globally but the work must have been primarily accessible to a Canadian audience, and must have been published in Canada. Value: $5,000 each Deadline: 15 January for Canadian, 30 January 2022 for US entries Open for: Journalists Details here and here (They also have Labor and Workforce Reporting Grants – they accept pitches on a rolling basis, and grants are up to $5,000.)

Learning Pool: Tall Tales Short Story Competition This is a story contest for children. Writers ages 7-12 can enter. Their guidelines say, “We are asking you to write a short story of no more than 500 words based on a mythical character of your choice. Whether it’s a shy dragon or a surfing mermaid, a silly werewolf or a scary fairy, we want to read your story. If you’re feeling really creative, send us a picture of your character to bring your story to life.” There are two categories, for ages 7-9 and 10-12 years. Writers have to ask an adult to submit their stories on the contest website. Royalties will be donated to Make-a-Wish International. Value: £200 for winners in each category, £100 for runners-up Deadline: 21 January 2022 Open for: Writers ages 7-12 years Details here .

Good Story Grant They will award two grants, and writers of all levels, in all genres, can apply. Their guidelines say, “The 2022 Good Story Grant aims to help two writers reach the next step in their creative journeys. This grant is open to writers of all skill levels, and working in all genres and categories. The award is $1,500 US, used however you’d like … as long as it has to do with writing and helps you tell your story. This year’s award is two grants. One open to all writers and one open to writers who identify as BIPOC, with the aim of championing underrepresented voices.” One of the requirements is an essay on what the grant will mean to you and how you will use the funds, Value: $1,500 for two writers Deadline: 31 January 2022 Open for: All writers Details here .

Jerry Jazz Musician Short Fiction Contest The magazine runs a short story contest thrice a year. Readers of this magazine are interested in music, social history, literature, politics, art, film and theater, particularly that of the counter-culture of mid-twentieth century America. While the writing should appeal to a reader with these interests, stories can be on any theme. Stories should be up to 3,000 words, but up to 4,000 words will be considered. Value: $100 Deadline: 31 January 2022 Open for: All writers Details here .

AKO Caine Prize for African Writing This is for a published short story by an African writer (see guidelines), of 3,000-10,000 words. The story must have been published in the five years preceding the submissions deadline. Submissions have to be made by publishers only. Works published in translation are also eligible (see ‘Rules of Entry’ for details). Value: £10,000, and £500 and travel expenses for up to five short-listed candidates Deadline: 31 January 2022 Open for: African writers Details here and here .

The Drip Action Theatre Company: Joy Goun Award They are looking for plays that are 30-40 minutes long, and these will be performed in the UK as part of the Arundel Festival Theatre Trail. Their website says the Train “is a great showcase for both new and established writers, from the UK and beyond.” There is a prize for the best submitted script, as well as for other successful playwrights. Seven plays will be chosen from the open call, along with a specially commissioned piece. Value: £250; £200 each for other successful playwrights Deadline: 31 January 2022 Open for: Unspecified Details here .

Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award They want a short story, of up to 8,000 words, that shows the near future (no more than about 50-60 years out) of manned space exploration. They want to see Moon bases, Mars colonies, orbital habitats, space elevators, asteroid mining, artificial intelligence, nano-technology, realistic spacecraft, heroics, sacrifice, adventure. They do not want stories that show technology or space travel as evil or bad, galactic empires, paranormal elements, UFO abductions, zombie stories, thinly veiled copies of previous winners, non-standalone novel excerpts, or screenplays. Value: 8c/word, and various non-cash awards Deadline: 1 February 2022 Open for: All writers Details here . (They also have a fantasy short story contest, the Baen Fantasy Adventure Award , that pays $0.08/word for stories of up to 8,000 words in all fantasy genres, and will open for submissions from 14 February to 30 April 2022.)

Neukom Institute Literary Arts Award for Playwriting Playwrights have to write to a prompt: What does it mean to be a human in a computerized world? Value: $5,000 Deadline: 1 February 2022 Open for: All playwrights Details here

(A couple of contests with later deadlines are: — National Endowment for the Arts’ Creative Writing Fellowships for US writers – they are accepting applications for poetry this year, awards are up to $25,000, and the deadline is 10 March 2022; and — Robert Louis Stevenson Fable Competition for writers globally – write a fable in up to 350 words, in the style of Robert Louis Stevenson; and they accept entries from minors as well as multiple entries; please read the guidelines carefully, all entrants grant the Robert Louis Stevenson Club the right to publish any entries; prizes are £500 and £100, and the deadline is 2 April 2022. )

PRIZES FOR US- AND CANADA-BASED WRITERS (Also see The Hillman Prize for Journalism in the section above.)

Minotaur Books: The Tony Hillerman Prize for Best First Mystery Set in the Southwest This is for US and Canadian writers, for a first novel (manuscript) of mystery – in which a serious crime or crimes is at the heart of the story, and the emphasis is on the solution rather than the details of the crime – of approximately 60,000 words. The story’s primary setting must be one or more of the following states: Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and/or Utah. Each manuscript will be assessed based on the following criteria, weighted as indicated: publishable quality of manuscript (60%); creativity (20%); and originality (20%). In the event of a tie, the tie will be broken based on the higher score in the “publishable quality of manuscript” category. Minotaur is an imprint of St Martin’s Press, which is part of Macmillan. Value: $10,000 advance against royalties Deadline: 1 January 2022 Open for: US and Canadian writers Details here

Homebound Publications: The Prism Prize for Climate Literature This is for a work of fiction, non-fiction, or poetry manuscript in the genre of climate literature. The final manuscript of up to 75,000 words (for fiction and non-fiction) and a market assessment and/or statement of marketing intentions are part of the submission requirement. The contest is for authors living in the US or UK. Value: $1,000, publication contract Deadline: 8 January 2022 Open for: US and UK authors Details here and here

National Endowment for the Arts: Translation Project Fellowship These are for published translators. The fellowship is for the translation of works of  prose, poetry,  or  drama  from other languages into English. They encourage translations of writers and of work that are not well represented in English translation. The proposed projects must be for creative translations of literary material into English. Value:  Up to $25,000 Deadline: 12 January 2022 Open for: Published translators who are citizens or permanent residents of the US Details here and here .

The John F Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest This is for US high school students in grades 9 through 12. Essays must describe an act of political courage by a US elected official who served during or after 1917, the year John F Kennedy was born. The official may have addressed an issue at the local, state, or national level. Essays should be 700-1,000 words and must quote at least five sources. Value: $10,000, $3,000, $1,000 each for finalists, $100 each for semi-finalists Deadline: 14 January 2022 Open for: US high school students Details  here (also see tabs on the page for various details)

Douglas B. Rogers Conditions of a Free Society Essay Competition This competition is meant to encourage undergraduate students in the US and Canada to join the Center for Political and Economic Thought at Saint Vincent College in discussing themes of Western Civilization such as individual freedom, limited constitutional government, free market economics, and the philosophical and moral foundations of America and the West. This year students are asked to consider a particular passage from Edmund Burke’s Speech on Moving Resolutions for Conciliation With the Colonies, and address the following prompt: “Ignored at a critical time preceding hostilities, comment on how Burke’s salient arguments may have provided proscriptive emollients to America’s bitter internecine conflict resultant from a perspectival bias towards the compact formed by the United States Constitution.” Value: $2,000; $1,000; $500 Deadline: 15 January 2022 Open for: Undergraduate students in the US and Canada Details here .

The Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay Contest This contest is for registered undergraduate full-time Juniors or Seniors at accredited four-year colleges or universities in the US. Students are invited to write an essay about an ethical issue they have encountered, and analyze what it has taught them about ethics, and themselves. See guidelines for potential topics and issues. Value: $10,000, $5,000, $3,000, two prizes of $1,000 each Deadline: 18 January 2022 Open for: Students in the US (see guidelines) Details here .

Zócalo Public Square Poetry Prize They want poetry from US poets whose poem best evokes a connection to place. “The prize interprets “place” in many ways: A place may possess historical, cultural, political, or personal importance, and may be literal, imaginary, or metaphorical.” Value: $1,000 Deadline: 22 January 2022 Open for: US poets Details here .

Poetry Northwest: James Welch Prize for Indigenous Writers This is a poetry prize for Indigenous writers in the US – “new, emerging, and established poets who are community-recognized members of tribal nations within the United States and its trust territories (including American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Chamorros, and American Samoans). Only poets who have not published more than one book-length collection are eligible; however, previous publication is not a requirement.” Submit up to three poems. Apart from cash prizes, two poets will also be invited to read at a literary venue. Value: $1,000 each Deadline: 31 January 2022 Open for: Indigenous writers in the US Details here and here .

Bucknell University: Philip Roth Residence in Creative Writing This residency is offered by Bucknell University, and provides writing time of up to four months. It’s for writers of fiction or creative non-fiction working on a first or second book. There are two residencies, in fall and spring semesters. Some record of publication is desirable. Value: $5,000 and residency Deadline: 1 February 2022 Open for: US writers Details here . (Also see details of the Bucknell Seminar for Undergraduate Poets , for those in the US – fellowships include tuition, housing in campus apartments and meals, and the application deadline is 31 January 2022; and some travel scholarships are also available.)

PRIZES FOR UK- AND IRELAND-BASED AUTHORS (Also see Homebound Publications: The Prism Prize for Climate Literature, in the section above) Discoveries 2022 This prize is run by The Women’s Prize Trust, Audible, Curtis Brown Literary Agency, and Curtis Brown Creative writing school. It is for UK- and Ireland-based women writers, for a novel-in-progress – send the first 10,000 words and a synopsis. Apart from a cash prize, the winner also gets literary representation. Value: £5,000 Deadline: 17 January 2022 Open for: UK- and Ireland-based women writers Details here .

Curtis Brown Creative: The New Beginnings Poetry Competition This prize is for UK- and Ireland-based writers, and it celebrates the launch of their online poetry-writing course. The theme is ‘New Beginnings’, and writers can interpret it as they like. Poems should be up to 40 lines. Entrants must not have previously published a full collection of poetry with a traditional publisher. Value: £500, online poetry writing course Deadline: 21 January 2022 Open for: UK- and Ireland-based poets Details here .

Red Dragonfly: Taking Flight Playwriting Competition This is for playwrights with East and South-East Asian heritage, and who are UK-based. They want one-page ideas for a one-hour play. Up to 10 shortlisted writers will attend a free workshop and mentorship sessions, before a winner is finalized. Value: £1,000 Deadline: 31 January 2022 (for ideas) Open for: UK-based writers of East and South-East Asian heritage and those from the British East and South-East Asian communities (see guidelines) Details here .

SOHO Theatre: The Verity Bargate Award This is the 40 th anniversary of their playwriting award. They want a play, of at least one hour production time (usually 40 pages, though monologues may be shorter). Musicals and plays with songs are accepted, but will be judged on text alone. Also, “If you’ve never written before, that’s fine by us. What matters is that great stories are told – human, inspiring and urgent stories which can only exist in this moment.” Value: £7,500, production Deadline: 21 January 2022 Open for: Any playwright who has had fewer than three professional productions and who lives in the UK or Republic of Ireland Details here .

Bio:  S. Kalekar is the pseudonym of a regular contributor to this magazine. She is the author of  182 Short Fiction Publishers . She can be reached  here .

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19 Writing Contests to Look for in 2024 [Free and Paid]

If you are a bookworm like me, you must love to browse and hunt for new titles. It can be in small, overcrowded bookstores, where you scoop treasures from hidden bookshelves, or it can be online, scrolling through titles, moving your mouse cursor across covers or screens to find that one book that will speak to your heart or mind. 

We all have personal strategies for finding the next great book. For me, the illustration on the book cover speaks volumes; fonts and typefaces sometimes make me stop to admire the designer’s work. 

But other times, it's just a tiny patch on the cover telling me that this book has been awarded a particular prize or shortlisted for something. 

If it is the right blend of plot, looks, and lines, such awarded discoveries make me want to buy them. If you are like me but also an author, here are some things you should know about entering writing contests in 2024 and beyond. 

What Is a Writing Contest?

A writing contest is a literary event where writers that fit the announced criteria subject their work to be reviewed, hoping to win a prize and the prestige that comes with it.

There are numerous contests out there. First, let’s go through why they might be a good idea for authors. 

Publication

I will start with the cherry on the cake: getting your work published.

Winning the competition is going to get your writing published. That is to say, it grants you a meeting with prospective readers, supports you in gathering momentum, and it is up to you how that opportunity is magnified. 

If you are a novelist, you might feel that there are fewer opportunities for you, but think about turning part of the plot into a short story and testing your vision with the readers. Their view might spark unexpected shards of inspiration.

There’s no reason to beat around the bush. Literary prize money is a good addition. The sum may vary but think from a thousand dollars upward. It can be that seed funding for a new project or a good incentive to start self-publishing . 

Practice time

This one’s the best gain when browning contests to enter. Writing mindful of the criteria and submitting on time is great to put you to work consistently. This is a trait to value when you know how difficult it is to pick a routine and stick to it. Think writing a novel, for instance. 

There are also other things to consider when embarking on such an experience. It is not simply the writing itself but the skills you get to exercise while submitting. You may benefit from the practice of writing an author bio , but it’s also helpful for you to see how to write an application letter and how to see a conversation through to publishing. You can also order essays for reference.

The biggest gain is, however, getting through the emotions of having your writing reviewed. Purposely going through the process of waiting weeks on end and taking in what the reviewers consider could be improved or dealing with rejection are crucial elements in your writer's journey.

What to Look for in Contest Writing?

Each writing competition you wish to join has a few requirements. To ensure you enter these writing contests, pay attention to:

Reading fees may help magazines stay on the market. Usually, they’re not a burden to writers. They are typical to a certain extent but don't hurry to break the bank over them. 

When it comes to a writers' contest, such fees are directed towards a jury and the literary prize itself. But if you are still deciding whether to enter a competition requiring a fee, see below those free to join.

Take the time to be thorough and read the rules several times.

Are you concerned about the First Publishing Rights? Some authors would like to ensure they still own the rights for publication. Check the rules, and make sure that these are something you can agree with. 

In some writing competitions, you are required to submit unpublished material. It is also customary to deliver a certain word count. You can be eliminated from the writing competition for not paying attention to these requirements. 

Pay attention to the genre of the writing contest as well. You can certainly not join short stories contests or essay contests if you are a poet. 

Formatting, genre, and word count - keep these in mind. And now that all such technicalities are clarified let us get down to your writing competitions in 2024 and beyond. 

Image source

Free Writing Contests 2024

If writing competitions are for you, test your skills in a free admittance competition.

1. 2024 Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest

This one is for the playful poets out there. Submit one humor poem in English, no longer than 250 lines, until ​​April 1, 2024.

Details here .

• 1st place $2000
• 2nd place $500
• 3rd place $250
• and ten honorable mentions of $100 each

2. 2024 Minotaur Books/Mystery Writers of America First Crime Novel Competition

This is another free contest to enter. It’s for unpublished authors, 18 years upward, putting murder and mystery at the center of their hearts. This is a unique chance to submit an English-language novel.

Awardees get the book published with Minotaur Books and a $10.000 advance against future royalties.

3. 53 Word Story Contest 

It is a free monthly contest where everyone is invited to enter. The deadline is the 15th day of the month.

The winners will be featured in Prime Numbers Magazine and receive a complimentary book from Press 53. 

4. W.Y. Boyd Literary Award for Excellence in Military Fiction 

This award honors the best literature set in a time when the US was at war. As target groups, young adult or adult fiction are preferred.

A prize of $5,000 and a 24k gold-framed citation of achievement is given annually for a novel published in the previous year.

Translators, rejoice! These two are for you:

5. Pen/Heim Translation Fund Grants 

Previous awardees managed translations from Farsi, Finland-Swedish, Lithuanian, Armenian, Basque, Estonian, Mongolian, French, Spanish, German, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, and Arabic.

Pen/Heim Translations Fund given grants of $2,000–$4,000 for each translation. The Fund has given grants to nearly 200 translations from over 35 languages.

6. The Gabo Prize for Literature in Translation & Multilingual Texts

Hosted by Lunch Ticket, this prize is funded by Antioch University Los Angeles MFA Alumni Allie Marini and Jennifer McCharen, together with writers and translators.

Details here.

Gabo Prize winners (selected by a guest judge) receive a prize that consists of $200 and publication in the next issue of Lunch Ticket . 

Writing Competitions with Entrance Fee

Get ready to roll your sleeves as you get many options to put you to good practice. Here are a few paid contests to enter.

7. Bath Flash Fiction Award 2024

A writing competition for entrants 16 years of age and over, writing on any subjects or themes, willing to submit a 300-word piece. 

The entrance fee is 9 GBP per entrance, but the price can be reduced for multiple submissions.

1st place - £‎ 1000 

2nd place - £‎ 300 

3rd place - £‎ 100 

Two commendations of £‎30 each

8. The Caterpillar Poetry Prize 2024

This is for you if you are an adult writing poems for children aged 7 to 11. And if such poems are unpublished. Note that this edition’s closing date is March 31, 2024

The entrance fee is €‎ 15 / poem .

▶️ 1st - €‎ 1000 + a week at Circle of Misse ▶️ 2nd - €‎ 500  ▶️ 3rd - €‎ 250 

9. The Bridport Prize 2024

This is for you if you look into the possibility of submitting under more categories than one - novel | flash fiction | poetry | short stories.

Entrance fee ranges between £ 11 - £ 24.

Each category has its own prizes. They vary from £250 to £5,000 + Highly Commended 10 x £100.

10. 2024 Bristol Short Story Prize

This is a short story contest for published and unpublished writers who are 16 or older. Submit stories regardless of theme or subject as long as they are no more than 4000 words long.

There are 250 free online entries. After that, the entrance fee is £ 9.

▶️ 1st place - £ 1000  ▶️ 2nd place - £ 500  ▶️ 3rd place - £ 250 

Each of the 17 remaining shortlisted writers will receive £100.

11. The 2024 Colorado Prize for Poetry

This is an international poetry manuscript writing competition, between 48 and 100 pages, without a limit on the number of poems included. 

The entrance fee is $28 which includes a yearly subscription to Colorado Review.

A $2500 honorarium and publication by the Center for Literary Publishing.

12. 2024 Rattle Chapbook Prize

This is a writing contest organized by Rattle Poetry magazine. Each entry must be between 15 - 30 pages in length.

The entrance fee is $28 which includes a yearly subscription to Rattle Poetry magazine.

The three winners will receive $5,000 and 500 author copies which will also be distributed to all of Rattle 's 7,000+ subscribers.

13. The Masters Review Chapbook Open

This writing competition is for you if you are an emerging writer with a soft spot for short stories, essays, mini novellas, and flash fiction. 

The entrance fee is $25.

Awardee receives a $3000 honorarium, publication, and 100 contributor copies.

Writing Contests for Teens

There are numerous writing contests for teen writers out there; let me just list some. 

14. Princeton University 10-Minute Play Contest

Eleventh graders, rejoice, as this is solely for you. the jury consists of members of the Princeton University Program in Theater faculty.

▶️ 1st place - $500 ▶️ 2nd place - $250 ▶️ 3rd place - $100 

15. Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest

In its 60th year, the writing contest awards the best poems submitted by young women - sophomores or juniors in high schools or preparatory schools. Winners are selected by faculty and student members of Hollins' creative writing program.

▶️ 1st place - $350 

Publication in Cargoes, Hollins’ award-winning student literary magazine

Ten copies of Cargoes

Renewable scholarship up to $5,000

▶️ 2nd place - Publication in Cargoes

Two copies of Cargoes

Renewable scholarship up to $1,000

16. Young Arts

National YoungArts Foundation aims to identify, nurture, and support accomplished young artists in the fields of visual, literary, design, and performing arts.

There are three categories: Finalist, Honorable Mention and Merit. YoungArts award winners at all levels receive cash prizes between $100 and $10,000.

17. Writopia Lab Worldwide Plays Festival

A festival where plays written and awarded in Writopia's labs are professionally produced in New York City. The playwright competition is open to worldwide writers aged 6 to 18.

There isn't a cash prize, but the play that gets selected will be put on stage. 

18. Chapman Art and Writing Holocaust Contest 

A writing contest that is focused on the Holocaust. Participating schools may submit three entries delivered by three individual students in categories such as prose, poetry, art, and film.

Students can win a first prize award of $400 in each category. 

19. Bennington College Young Writers Awards

Bennington College has successfully produced 12 Pulizer awardees, three US poet laureates, and countless New York Times bestsellers. The contest is divided into three categories: poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. 

▶️ 1st place - $1000  ▶️ 2nd place - $500  ▶️ 3rd place - $250 

Finalists and winners are eligible for undergraduate scholarships.

Reedsy Contests

Suppose you are like me and sometimes find it challenging to wait for writing competition results or still feel unprepared to deal with annual competitions. If that’s the case, hit the Reedsy writing contest , which proposes a new weekly topic. See which of these propositions is more suitable for you or even which agrees with your writing routines.

And speaking of writing routines, a writing competition trains you to finish a book within the expected timeframe. Most importantly, it will keep you engaged and away from writer's block .

Final Thoughts

A writing contest helps you get into a writing routine, boosting your desire to keep going to see the final result. 

Moreover, it can get you published, which is what you ultimately want to achieve.

If the writing competition doesn't offer this possibility, you can always turn to self-publishing and get your manuscript out there.

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Free writing contests, free writing contests is your source for a listing of 2024 writing contests that you can enter. the largest collection of free creative writing contests - hand-picked for writers of all skill levels. your online location for an updated list of writing contests from around the world delivered daily., flash fiction writing contest, horror writing contest, dialogue only writing contest, dribble flash fiction, non-fiction writing contest, erotic writing contest, write a rant, the storm writing contest, western writing contest, a first book chapter, this sentence starts the story, 75 words flash fiction, hershey story writing contest, write a script, science fiction writing contest, future flash fiction, share your story, fantasy writing contest, l ron hubbard writing contest, true story contest, 100 word flash fiction, flash fiction, about the writing contests.

Writing contests are carefully reviewed by our staff to help ensure that only the very best make it to our website. We understand and appreciate that entering writing contests is often a leap of faith. Our goal is to provide writing contests from reputable companies. These are companies that provide a panel of judges (a committee) to judge the contests. The winners are announced shortly after the deadline is reached. Deadlines are solid and do not change. The fiction writing contests should contain clear guidelines of the type of writing that is accepted. Free fiction writing contests sometimes require a specific genre such as science fiction. The free online writing competitions listed are clear on what type of writing is required. If there are any restrictions on word count you should be aware of this. If there are this will be stated in the contest announcement. Contest announcements will contain any requirements that an author should be aware of. Pay careful attention not just to the word count rqruirement but also the genre requirements, deadline and format requirements for your submission. We post free writing competitions that we believe have a fair and easy submission and judging process. You will find it easy to enter the contests above. Your writing contest will be judged in a fair matter. Prior to entering a contest we recommend reading our latest blog which explains how to write for a contest and what steps to take.

Length Of Your Entry

The most common question we hear is how long should your contest entry be. Flash fiction is a popular form of writing. For these contests your goal is to tell a complete story using a specific amount of words. You'll see a number of flash fiction contests on this listing. For those your word count must be exact (in most cases). So if the free fiction writing contest requires 100 words that should be the total in the body of your work (no more, no less). Normally the title of your work is not included in the count. Some writing contests do not have a word count requirement. For these contests we recommend keeping the word count to 5,000 words or less. The judges for free online writing competitions are not going to want to read a novel when a short story is requested. So keep in mind the number of words when writing your contest piece. Understand longer pieces may not be as well received. But most contests will have guidelines.

Have fun with the free writing competitions. Be creative. Try new things. Whether you win or lose entering a contest, getting feedback (most of our contests give feedback to the author) and learning is the most important thing you can take away from these contests. So enjoy your free writing contests 2024!

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Best Non Fiction Writing Contests in 2024

Showing 85 contests that match your search.

Annual Contest Submissions

So To Speak

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Flash Fiction, LGBTQ, Non-fiction, and Poetry

So To Speak is seeking submissions for poetry, fiction, and non-fiction with an intersectional feminist lens! It is no secret that the literary canon and literary journals are largely comprised of heteronormative, patriarchal, cisgender, able-bodied white men. So to Speak seeks work by writers, poets, and artists who want to challenge and change the identity of the “canonical” writer.

Additional prizes:

Publication

💰 Entry fee: $4

📅 Deadline: March 15, 2024 (Expired)

Memoir/Fiction Book Contest for IML Publications

Genres: Fiction, Memoir, Non-fiction, and Novel

We are a boutique publishing company that is dedicated to amplifying the voices of contemporary writers who are nomads and explorers of language, form, and the psyche. High-quality “unpublished” manuscript submissions of memoir, fiction and non-fiction entrusted to us will be read, sorted and pondered by our esteemed author, Jacqueline Gay Walley.

Possible publication

💰 Entry fee: $35

📅 Deadline: October 01, 2024

The Iowa Review Awards

The Iowa Review

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

Each January since 2003, The Iowa Review has invited submissions to The Iowa Review Awards, a writing contest in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction. Winners receive $1,500; first runners-up receive $750. Winners and runners-up are published in each December issue.

💰 Entry fee: $20

📅 Deadline: January 31, 2024 (Expired)

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Irene Adler Prize

Lucas Ackroyd

Genres: Essay, Non-fiction, and Travel

I’ve traveled the world from Sweden to South Africa, from the Golden Globes to the Olympic women’s hockey finals. I’ve photographed a mother polar bear and her cubs and profiled stars like ABBA, Jennifer Garner and Katarina Witt. And I couldn’t have done it without women. I’ve been very fortunate, and it’s time for me to give back. With the Irene Adler Prize, I’m awarding a $1,000 scholarship to a woman pursuing a degree in journalism, creative writing, or literature at a recognized post-secondary institution.

2x honorable mentions: $250

📅 Deadline: May 30, 2024

Gulf Coast Writers Association Writing Contest

Gulf Coast Writers Association

Genres: Flash Fiction, Non-fiction, and Poetry

The Gulf Coast Writers Association is a twenty-nine year old association which was founded to promote writing and writers in Southwest Florida. Its annual contest is open to anyone from anywhere. The entries are judged blind by experienced members of the association and esteemed members of the local community. Entry fees are $20 for the first submission and $10 thereafter, with discounts for GCWA Members. Winners will be notified in June of 2024. Prose has a 1,500 word limit and poetry must be 40 lines or less. Send us your bravest work.

2nd: $75 | 3rd: $50

📅 Deadline: May 31, 2024

SFWP Literary Awards

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Novel, and Novella

We are seeking fiction and creative nonfiction of every genre. The contest is open to authors who have not been published by a major press. We publish in English, but the contest is open to writers from anywhere in the world. The early-bird entry fee (December 15th-February 15th) will be $25.

Two runner ups will be selected, each receiving $700.

💰 Entry fee: $30

📅 Deadline: July 15, 2022 (Expired)

Book Pipeline Unpublished Contest

Book Pipeline

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Mystery, Non-fiction, Science Fiction, and Young Adult

Launched in 2014, Book Pipeline connects writers worldwide with publishers, editors, agents, and the film industry. Through two submission platforms—Unpublished and Adaptation—the company seeks both new and established authors. For over 22 years, Pipeline has bridged the gap between up-and-coming writers and the industry through a unique, long-term, hands-on facilitation process. The result thus far has been $8 million in scripts sold to studios and networks since 1999.

💰 Entry fee: $45

📅 Deadline: August 20, 2024

Red Hen Press Women's Prose Prize

Red Hen Press

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Short Story, Essay, Memoir, and Novel

Established in 2018, the Women’s Prose Prize is for previously unpublished, original work of prose. Novels, short story collections, memoirs, essay collections, and all other forms of prose writing are eligible for consideration. The awarded manuscript is selected through a biennial competition, held in even-numbered years, that is open to all writers who identify as women.

Publication by Red Hen Press

💰 Entry fee: $25

📅 Deadline: February 28, 2024 (Expired)

Vocal Challenges

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Memoir, Non-fiction, and Short Story

Enter themed storytelling contests to put your creativity to the test and be in with a chance of winning cash prizes and more. To submit, you'll need to sign up for a monthly fee of $9.99, or $4.99/month for 3 months.

$1,000 — $5,000

💰 Entry fee: $15

📅 Deadline: March 07, 2024 (Expired)

Solas Awards

Best Travel Writing

Extraordinary stories about travel and the human spirit have been the cornerstones of our books since 1993. With the Solas Awards we honor writers whose work inspires others to explore. We’re looking for the best stories about travel and the world. Funny, illuminating, adventurous, uplifting, scary, inspiring, poignant stories that reflect the unique alchemy that occurs when you enter unfamiliar territory and begin to see the world differently as a result. We hope these awards will be a catalyst for those who love to leave home and tell others about it.

📅 Deadline: September 21, 2024

The Letter Review Prize for Nonfiction

The Letter Review

Genres: Essay, Memoir, Non-fiction, Crime, Humor, and Science Writing

2-4 Winners are published. We Shortlist 10-20 writers. Seeking Nonfiction 0-5000 words. Judges’ feedback available. Open to writers from anywhere in the world, with no theme or genre restrictions. Judged blind. All entries considered for publication + submission to Pushcart.

Publication by The Letter Review

💰 Entry fee: $2

📅 Deadline: April 30, 2024

High School Academic Research Competition

Columbia Undergraduate Science Journal

Genres: Essay and Non-fiction

The High School Academic Research Competition is where talented students from around the world compete to publish high-quality research on any topic. SARC challenges students to sharpen their critical thinking skills, immerse themselves in the research process, and hone their writing skills for success.

Indigo Research Intensive Summer Program

📅 Deadline: March 20, 2024 (Expired)

Narrative Prize

Narrative Magazine

The Narrative Prize is awarded annually for the best short story, novel excerpt, poem, one-act play, graphic story, or work of literary nonfiction published by a new or emerging writer in Narrative. The submission system is open all year.

💰 Entry fee: $27

📅 Deadline: June 15, 2024

The Letter Review Prize for Books

Genres: Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novella, Poetry, Romance, Science Fiction, Science Writing, Short Story, Thriller, and Young Adult

The Letter Review Prize for Books is open to writers from anywhere in the world. Seeking most unpublished (we accept some self/indie published) novels, novellas, story collections, nonfiction, poetry etc. 20 entries are longlisted.

$1000 USD shared by 3 winners

📅 Deadline: October 31, 2023 (Expired)

First Pages Prize

Genres: Fiction and Non-fiction

First Pages Prize invites you to enter your first 5 pages of a longer work of fiction or creative nonfiction. Prizes in both fiction & creative nonfiction. Open to un-agented writers worldwide, the prize supports emerging writers with cash awards, developmental mentoring, & agent consultation. This year our judge is Edwidge Danticat! Opens March 2024!

Agent Consultation, Developmental Mentorship

📅 Deadline: April 10, 2024 (Expired)

Self-Publishing Literary Awards

Black Caucus

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Novel, and Poetry

Through this contest, the BCALA honors the best self-published ebooks by an African American author in the U.S. in both fiction and poetry genres. These awards acknowledge outstanding achievement in the presentation of the cultural, historical and sociopolitical aspects of the Black Diaspora. The purpose is to encourage the artistic expression of the African American experience via literature and scholarly research including biographical, historical, and social history treatments by African Americans.

📅 Deadline: February 29, 2024 (Expired)

100 Word Writing Contest

Tadpole Press

Genres: Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Science Fiction, Science Writing, Thriller, Young Adult, Children's, Poetry, Romance, Short Story, Suspense, and Travel

Can you write a story using 100 words or less? Pieces will be judged on creativity, uniqueness, and how the story captures a new angle, breaks through stereotypes, and expands our beliefs about what's possible or unexpectedly delights us. In addition, we are looking for writing that is clever or unique, inspires us, and crafts a compelling and complete story. The first-place prize has doubled to $2,000 USD.

2nd: writing coach package

Brink Literary Journal Award for Hybrid Writing

Genres: Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Humor, Memoir, Non-fiction, Poetry, Science Writing, and Short Story

The Brink Literary Journal Award for Hybrid Writing will be administered to the winner of a literary contest designed to champion innovative hybrid and cross-genre work.

💰 Entry fee: $22

📅 Deadline: February 16, 2024 (Expired)

Writer's Digest Annual Writing Competition

Writer's Digest

Enter our 91st Annual Writing Competition for the chance to have your work be seen by editors and agents! Almost 500 winners will be chosen. The top winning entries of this writing contest will also be on display in the Annual Writer’s Digest Competition Collection. [$20 for a poetry entry, $30 for a manuscript entry]

2nd: $500 | 3rd: $100

📅 Deadline: May 06, 2024

AWP Prize for Creative Nonfiction

Association of Writers & Writing Programs

Genres: Non-fiction

AWP sponsors the Award Series, an annual competition for the publication of excellent new book-length works. The competition is open to all authors writing in English regardless of nationality or residence, and is available to published and unpublished authors alike.

Publication by the University of Georgia Press

Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize

Gotham Writers Workshop

Genres: Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Romance, Science Fiction, Short Story, Thriller, and Young Adult

The Stella Kupferberg Memorial Short Story Prize is a writing competition sponsored by the stage and radio series Selected Shorts. Selected Shorts is recorded for Public Radio and heard nationally on both the radio and its weekly podcast. This years entries will be judged by Carmen Maria Machado (In the Dream House, Her Body and Other Parties).

$1000 + free 10 week course with Gotham Writers

📅 Deadline: March 01, 2024 (Expired)

2024 Spring Prose & Poetry Contest

Onyx Publications

Genres: Crime, Fantasy, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Poetry, Science Fiction, Short Story, and Thriller

Our contest provides a First, Second, and Third prize for both prose and poetry. There are no themes or special requirements so just send us your best work. We recommend you read through previous editions or listen to the works and author interviews on our Story Discovery Podcast to get a sense of the range of creativity we enjoy.

$500 + publication and author interview on Story Discovery podcast

2nd: $150 | 3rd: $75

💰 Entry fee: $12

📅 Deadline: April 21, 2024

African Diaspora Awards 2024

Kinsman Avenue Publishing, Inc

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

Up to $1000 in cash prizes for the African Diaspora Award 2024. African-themed prose and poetry wanted. Top finalists are published in Kinsman Quarterly’s magazine and the anthology, “Black Butterfly: Voices of the African Diaspora.”

Publication in anthology, "Black Butterfly: Voices of the African Diaspora" and print and digital magazine

📅 Deadline: June 30, 2024

Young Sports Journalist 2024

The Young Sports Journalist Competition, 2024, seeks well-argued articles from aspiring journalists aged 14-21. Winning entries will be published online and printed in the Summer Issue of Pitch. Critiqued by our panel of accomplished judges, winners will also receive a £50 cash prize and offered work experience here at PITCH HQ. The competition runs from 7 February 2024 to 5 April 2024. And winners will be announced in May.

Publication in magazine and online

📅 Deadline: April 05, 2024 (Expired)

The Porter Fleming Literary Competition

The Morris Museum of Art

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Script Writing

Welcome to the 2024 Porter Fleming Literary Competition, now in its twenty-ninth year of recognizing outstanding writing and writers. The competition honors the memory of Porter Fleming, one of Augusta, Georgia’s leading citizens and foremost philanthropists. The competition is administered, with the support of the Porter Fleming Foundation, by the Morris Museum of Art, the first museum in the country to focus on the art and artists of the American South. Writers, ages 18 and older, who reside in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Kentucky, Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Washington, D.C are invited to apply.

1st place in each genre category: $1,000

2nd place: $500 & 3rd place: $250 in each of the four genre categories

Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest

Winning Writers

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, and Short Story

Welcome to the 31st annual Tom Howard/John H. Reid Fiction & Essay Contest. Submit published or unpublished work. $9,000 in prizes.

Two-year gift certificate from Duotrope; 10 Honorable Mentions will receive $300 each

📅 Deadline: May 01, 2024

Indignor Play House Annual Short Story Competition

Indignor House Publishing

Genres: Fiction, Flash Fiction, Short Story, Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novella, Poetry, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, and Young Adult

Indignor House Publishing is proud to announce that our annual writing competition (INDIGNOR PLAYHOUSE Short Story Annual Competition) is officially open with expected publication in the fall of 2024. Up to 25 submissions will be accepted for inclusion in the annual anthology.

2nd: $250 | 3rd: $150

The Letter Review Prize for Unpublished Books

Genres: Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novel, Novella, Poetry, Romance, Science Fiction, Science Writing, Short Story, Thriller, and Young Adult

Free to enter. Seeking 0-5000 word (poetry: 15 pgs) excerpts of unpublished books (Fiction, Poetry, Nonfiction), including most self-published and indie-published works. 2-4 Winners (publication of extract is optional). We Shortlist 10-20 writers. Open to writers from anywhere in the world, with no theme or genre restrictions. Judged blind.

Optional Publication of Excerpt, Letter of Recommendation

J. Anthony Lukas Work-in-Progress Awards

Columbia Journalism School

Two J. Anthony Lukas Work-in-Progress Awards, in the amount of $25,000, are given annually to aid in the completion of significant works of nonfiction on topics of American political or social concern. Recognizing that a nonfiction book based on extensive research often overtaxes the resources available to its author, the project envisions the Awards as a way of closing the gap between the time and money an author has and the time and money that finishing a book requires.

📅 Deadline: December 07, 2023 (Expired)

Journalism Competition 2024

Write the World

What are the most important issues taking place close to home? Perhaps a rare bird sighting near your town? Or a band of young people in your province fighting for access to higher education? This month, immerse yourself in a newsworthy event inside the borders of your own country, and invite us there through your written reporting.

Best entry: $100

Runner up: $50 | Best peer review: $50

📅 Deadline: July 22, 2024

Creative Nonfiction Prize

Indiana Review

Genres: Essay, Fiction, and Non-fiction

Send us one creative nonfiction piece, up to 5000 words, for a chance at $1000 + publication. This year's contest will be judged by Lars Horn.

📅 Deadline: March 31, 2024 (Expired)

The Rubery Prize

Rubery Book Awards

Genres: Crime, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novel, Novella, Science Fiction, Thriller, Young Adult, and Romance

The Rubery Prize is a prestigious international book award seeking the best books by indie writers, self published authors and books published by independent presses, judged by reputable judges. Through our reputation of finding quality and outstanding books we aim to bring recognition to the works that win and heighten an author's profile.

£200, a write-up

💰 Entry fee: $60

The Book of the Year Awards

The Independent Author Network

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novel, Novella, Poetry, Romance, Science Fiction, Science Writing, Thriller, Young Adult, Crime, and Short Story

The Independent Author Network presents the 10th Annual IAN Book of the Year Awards, an international contest open to all authors with 55 fiction and non-fiction categories. Winners are eligible to receive a share of cash prizes of $6,000 USD. Open to all English language print and eBooks available for sale, including small presses, mid-size independent publishers, university presses, and self-published authors.

$6,000.00 USD in total cash prizes

💰 Entry fee: $49

📅 Deadline: August 16, 2024

NOWW 26th International Writing Contest

Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop (NOWW)

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

Open to all writers in four categories: poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, and critical writing.

2nd: $100 | 3rd: $50

💰 Entry fee: $7

Anthology Travel Writing Competition 2024

Anthology Magazine

The Anthology Travel Writing Competition is open to original and previously unpublished travel articles in the English language by writers of any nationality, living anywhere in the world. We are looking for an engaging article that will capture the reader’s attention, conveying a strong sense of the destination and the local culture. Max 1000 words.

💰 Entry fee: $16

📅 Deadline: November 30, 2024

Related Resources:

• Nonfiction: 24 Genres and Types of Fact-Based Books (blog post)
• Outlining a Nonfiction Book: 3 Steps to Success (blog post)
• How to Write a Nonfiction Book in 6 Steps (blog post)
• How to Publish a Nonfiction Book: Land a Book Deal in 5 Steps (blog post)

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25 Best Writing Competitions for High School Students – 2024

April 12, 2024

Over the past several years, the number of college applicants has been steadily rising. [i] As college admissions become more competitive, there are many steps a student can take to achieve high school success and become an outstanding candidate for college admissions: earning high SAT scores, securing strong letters of recommendation , and participating in various competitions will all boost your admissions prospects. [ii] In particular, writing competitions for high school students are a popular way to win scholarships and prize money, receive feedback on writing, build a portfolio of public work, and add to college application credentials!

Below, we’ve selected twenty-five writing competitions for high school students and sorted them by three general topics: 1) language, literature and arts, 2) STEM, environment and sustainability, and 3) politics, history and philosophy. It’s never too soon to begin thinking about your future college prospects, and even if you are a freshman, many of these writing competitions for high schoolers will be open to you! [iii]

Writing Competitions for High School Students in Language, Literature, and Arts

1) adroit prizes for poetry and prose.

This prestigious creative writing award offers high school students the opportunity to showcase their work in Adroit Journal . Judges are acclaimed writers in their respective genres.

• Eligibility: All high school students (including international students) are eligible to apply. Poetry contestants may submit up to five poems. Prose contestants may submit up to three pieces of fiction or nonfiction writing (for a combined total of 3,500 words – excerpts accepted).
• Prize: Winners will receive $200 and their writing will be published in Adroit Journal . All submitted entries will be considered for publication!
• Deadline: May 1st (specific deadline may vary by year).

2)  Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest

This unique essay competition allows writers the chance to explore and respond to Ayn Rand’s fascinating and polemic 1957 novel Atlas Shrugged . Specific essay topics are posted every three months; prizes are granted seasonally with a grand prize winner announced every year.

• Prize: Annual grand prize is $25,000.
• Deadline: Deadlines occur every season, for each seasonal prompt.
• Eligibility: Essays must be written in English and be 800-1,600 words in length.

Writing Competitions for High School Students (Continued)

3)  the bennington young writers awards.

Through Bennington College, this high school writing competition offers three prizes in three different genre categories: poetry, fiction, and nonfiction. Winners and finalists who decide to attend Bennington College will ultimately receive a substantial scholarship prize.

• Eligibility: U.S. and international students in grades 9 through 12 may apply.
• Prize: First place winners receive $1,000; second place wins $500; third place winners receive $250. YWA winners who apply, are admitted, and enroll at Bennington receive a $15,000 scholarship per year (for a total of $60,000). YWA finalists who apply, are admitted, and enroll at Bennington will receive a $10,000 scholarship per year (for a total of $40,000).
• Deadline: The competition runs annually from September 1st to November 1st.

4)  Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) Student Essay Contest

Do you love Jane Austen? If so, this is the high school writing competition for you! With the JASNA Student Essay Contest, high school students have the opportunity to write a six to eight-page essay about Jane Austen’s works, focused on a specific, designated topic for the competition year.

• Eligibility: Any high school student (homeschooled students also eligible) enrolled during the contest year may submit an essay.
• Prize: First place winner receives a $1,000 scholarship and two nights’ lodging for the upcoming annual JASNA meeting. Second place wins a $500 scholarship and third place wins a $250 scholarship. All winners will additionally receive a year membership in JASNA, the online publication of their article, and a set of Norton Critical Editions of Jane Austen’s novels.
• Deadline: Submission accepted from February-June 1st (specific dates may vary by year).

5)  The Kennedy Center VSA Playwright Discovery Program

Young aspiring writers with disabilities are encouraged to apply to this unique program. Students are asked to submit a ten-minute play script that explores any topic, including the student’s own disability experience.

• Eligibility: U.S. and international high school students with disabilities ages 14-19 may apply.
• Prize: Multiple winners will receive exclusive access to professional development and networking opportunities at The Kennedy Center.
• Deadline: January (specific deadline date may vary by year).

6)  Leonard M. Milburg ’53 High School Poetry Prize

Through Princeton’s Lewis Center for the Arts, this prestigious writing competition for high school students recognizes outstanding poetry writing and is judged by creative writing faculty at Princeton University.

• Eligibility: U.S. or international students in the eleventh grade may apply. Applicants may submit up to three poems.
• Prize: First place wins $1,500; second place wins $750; third place wins $500.
• Deadline: November (specific deadline date may vary by year).

7)  Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest

Nancy Thorp was a student at Hollins University who showed great promise as a poet. After her death, her family established this scholarship to support budding young poets.

• Eligibility: Female high school sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply. Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Prize: First place wins $350 and publication in Cargoes literary magazine, along with a $5,000 renewable scholarship (up to $20,000 over four years) if the student enrolls in Hollins University, and free tuition and housing for Hollins University’s summer creative writing program (grades 9-12). Second place wins publication in Cargoes, along with a $1,000 renewable scholarship ($4,000 over four years) if the student enrolls at Hollins and $500 to apply toward Hollins’ summer creative writing program.
• Deadline: October (specific deadline date may vary by year).

8)  National Council of Teachers of English Achievement Awards in Writing

Students may be nominated by their English teachers to win this prestigious writing award. Winners “exhibit the power to inform and move an audience through language” and prompts and genres may vary by competition year.

• Prize: A certificate will be awarded to students who are judged to have exceptional writing skills. Student names will be displayed on the NCTE website.
• Eligibility: U.S. high school sophomores and juniors are eligible for nomination.
• Deadline: February (specific dates may vary by year). Contest prompts released in August.

9)  National Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

At Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, numerous opportunities for scholarships and awards await those who submit writing in various genres: literary criticism, drama, poetry, and fiction. In all, there are 28 generic categories of art and writing to choose from!

• Eligibility: Teens in grades 7-12 (ages 13 and up) may apply.
• Prize: Various types of recognition and scholarships (up to $12,500) are offered for these award winners.
• Deadline: Scholastic Awards opens for entries in September; deadlines range from December to January.

10)  National Society of High School Scholars Creative Writing Scholarship

In this creative writing competition for high schoolers, students have the opportunity to submit a piece poetry or fiction (or both – one in each category!) for the opportunity to be published on the NSHSS website and win a monetary prize.

• Eligibility: Rising high school students graduating in 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027 may apply.
• Prize: There will be three $2,000 awards for the fiction category and three $2,000 awards for the poetry category.
• Deadline: Submissions Accepted from May to October (specific dates may vary by year).

11)  National Writing Award: The Humanities and a Freer Tomorrow

This writing competition allows high school students the chance to be nominated by a teacher for a piece of writing in response to Ruth J. Simmons’ “Facing History to Find a Better Future.” Specific prompt topics may vary by year.

• Eligibility: Nominating teachers can submit work from 11th and 12th graders in one category (fiction, poetry, prose, or essay).
• Prize: One top prize of $1,000. Four additional prizes of $500 each. Winners will have the opportunity to have their work published by NCTE.
• Deadline: Applications are open September to October (specific dates may vary by year).

12)  New York Public Library Young Lions Fiction Award

Although this prestigious award isn’t exclusively for high schoolers (anyone younger than 35 may submit a work of fiction), if you’ve written a collection of short stories or even a novel, you should certainly consider applying!

• Eligibility: Any writer below the age of 35 may submit a novel or collection of short stories to participate in this competition.
• Prize: $10,000 award.
• Deadline: September (specific date may vary by year).

13)  Princeton University Ten-Minute Play Contest

This writing competition for high school students awards three annual top prizes for the best ten-minute play. Play submissions are judged each year by an acclaimed guest playwright.

• Eligibility: U.S. or international students in the eleventh grade may apply. Students may submit one play entry; entries must be ten pages or less. Plays must be written in English.
• Prize: First place prize is $500; second place is $250; third place is $100.
• Deadline: Varies by year. However, students are recommended to submit before the deadline date – the submission portal will close when a maximum of 250 applicants have applied.

14)  YouthPLAYS New Voices One-Act Competition for Young Playwrights

In this exciting writing competition, students have the chance to submit an original play script for a play of around 10-40 minutes in length. An excellent competition choice for any student considering a future in the theatre!

• Eligibility: Prospective authors ages 19 and under may submit a script for consideration in the competition. See specific writing guidelines here .
• Prize: First prize wins $250 and publication with YouthPLAYS; second prize wins $100.
• Deadline: Submissions run from January 1st to May 1st.

STEM, Environment, and Sustainability High School Writing Competitions

15)  engineergirl essay contest.

This wonderful essay contest invites students to explore topics related to engineering and science. Each year a new, specific prompt will be chosen for young writers who wish to compete.

• Eligibility: High school students are eligible to apply. Previous winners and close family members of employees of the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine are not eligible.
• Prize: First place winners receive $1,000; second place receives $750; third place receives $500.
• Deadline: Competition opens in September and submissions are due February 1st of the following year. Winners are announced in the summer.

16)  Ocean Awareness Contest

The Ocean Awareness Contest is an opportunity for students to create written and artistic projects that explore sustainability, environmentalism, and positive change. High school freshmen (up to age 14) may apply to the Junior Division. Students ages 15-18 may enter the Senior Division.

• Eligibility: Students ages 11-18 may apply (international students included).
• Prize: Monetary prizes ranging from $100-$1000 will be awarded each year. Additionally, $500 will be awarded to ten students who identify as Black, Indigenous, or Latino via the We All Rise Prize program.
• Deadline: June 10, 2024 (specific deadline may vary by year).

17)  Rachel Carson Intergenerational Sense of Wonder / Sense of Wild Contest

If you are interested in issues of sustainability, environment, biology and the natural world, this is one of the high school writing competitions that is just for you! Essay prompts explore the natural world and our place within it and may include poetry, essays, and photography.

• Eligibility: Students must pair with an adult from a different generation (e.g. parent, grandparent or teacher – contestants need not be related). Entries must be submitted as a team.
• Prize: Winners will receive a certificate from RCLA; their first names, ages, and entry titles will be posted on the RCLA website.
• Deadline: November 16th, 2024 (specific deadline may vary by year).

18)  River of Words Competition

This writing competition for high school students is another top choice for those thinking of pursuing majors or careers in biology, environment, and sustainability; this specific contest hopes to promote positive education in sustainability by “promoting environmental literacy through the arts and cultural exchange.”

• Eligibility: Any U.S. or international student from kindergarten through 12th grade may apply.
• Prize: Winners will be published in the River of Words
• Deadline: January (specific deadline may vary by year).

Writing Competitions for High School Students in Politics, History and Philosophy

19)  american foreign service association essay contest.

With this writing competition for high school students, entrants may submit essays ranging from 1,000-1,500 words about diplomacy, history, and international politics (specific prompts vary by year).

• Eligibility: Students in grades nine through twelve may apply. Students whose parents are in the Foreign Service Association are not eligible.
• Prize: The first-place winner will receive $2,500, an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C. for the winner and the winner’s parents, and an all-expense paid voyage via Semester at Sea. The second-place winner receives $1,250 and full tuition for a summer session at the National Student Leadership Conference’s International Diplomacy program.
• Deadline: Early spring (specific deadline may vary by year).

20)  Bill of Rights Institute We the Students Essay Contest

In this writing competition for high school students, civic-minded U.S. high schoolers may explore the principles and virtues of the Bill of Rights Institute. Interested applicants should review the specific submission guidelines .

• Eligibility: Any high school student aged 13 to 19 may apply.
• Prize: Prizes range from $1,500 to $10,000.
• Deadline: Submissions for 2024 due May 19th (specific deadline may vary by year).

21)  JFK Presidential Library and Museum Profile in Courage Essay Contest

For students interested in history and political science, this competition offers the chance to write about U.S. elected officials who have demonstrated political courage.

• Eligibility: U.S. high school students from grades 9-12 may apply.
• Prize: First prize is $10,000; second prize receives $3,000; five finalists receive $1,000 each; ten semifinalists receive $100 each; eight students receive honorable mention.
• Deadline: Submissions accepted from September to January (specific deadline may vary by year).
• Sample Essays: 2000-2023 Contest Winner Essays

22)  John Locke Institute Essay Competition

This essay competition is for students who would like to write about and cultivate “independent thought, depth of knowledge, clear reasoning, critical analysis and persuasive style” from one of seven intellectual categories: philosophy, politics, economics, history, psychology, theology or law.

• Eligibility: Students from any country may submit an essay.
• Prize: $2,000 for each subject category winner toward a John Locke Institute program; winning essays will be published on the Institute’s website.
• Deadline: Registration must be completed by May 31st, 2024; essay submission due June 30th, 2024 (specific deadline may vary by year).

23)  Society of Professional Journalists and the Journalism Education Association Essay Contest

This exciting writing competition for high schoolers allows students to explore topics related to journalism, democracy and media literacy. Specific prompts will be provided for contestants each year.

• Eligibility: All U.S. students from grades 9-12 may submit original writing to participate in this contest.
• Prize: First-place winners will receive $1,000; second place is awarded $500; third place receives $300.
• Deadline: February (specific deadline may vary by year).

24)  Veterans of Foreign Wars Voice of Democracy Youth Scholarship Essay

This audio essay allows high school students the opportunity to “express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriot-themed recorded essay.” One winner will be granted a $35,000 scholarship to be paid toward their university, college, or vocational school of choice. Smaller prizes range from $1,000-$21,000, and the first-place winner in each VFW state wins $1,000.

• Prize: College scholarships range from $1,000-$35,000
• Eligibility: U.S. students in grades 9-12 may submit a 3-5-minute audio essay.
• Deadline: October 31st
• Sample Written Essay: 2023-2024 Prize-winning essay by Sophia Lin

25)  World Historian Student Essay Competition

The World Historian Student Essay Competition recognizes young scholars who explore world historical events and how they relate to the student scholar personally. Ultimately the student writer must describe “the experience of being changed by a better understanding of world history.”

• Eligibility: Internationally, students ages K-12 may submit an entry. See specific prompt and submission guidelines for writing instructions.
• Prize: $500

Writing Competitions for High School Students – Sources

[i] Institute for Education Sciences: National Center for Education Statistics. “Number of applications for admission from first-time, degree/certificate-seeking undergraduate students were received by postsecondary institutions in the fall.” https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/TrendGenerator/app/answer/10/101

[ii] Jaschik, Scott. “Record Applications, Record Rejections.” Inside Higher Ed . 3 April 2022. https://www.insidehighered.com/admissions/article/2022/04/04/most-competitive-colleges-get-more-competitive

[iii] Wood, Sarah. “College Applications are on the Rise: What to Know.” U.S. News & World Report. 21 June 2022. https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/college-applications-are-on-the-rise-what-to-know

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85 Writing Contests in February 2024 — No entry fees

Erica Verrillo

Curiosity Never Killed the Writer

D espite being nasty, brutish, and short, February always hosts reams of writing contests. This February there are more than seven dozen free writing contests for short fiction, novels, poetry, CNF, nonfiction, and plays. Prizes this month range from $100,000 to publication. None charge entry fees.

Some of these contests have age and geographical restrictions, so read the instructions carefully.

If you want to get a jump on next month’s contests go to Free Contests . Most of these contests are offered annually, so even if the deadline has passed, you can prepare for next year.

The Jim Baen Memorial Short Story Award . Genre : Short story of no more than 8,000 words that shows the near future (no more than about 50–60 years out) of manned space exploration. Prize : Publication as the featured story on the Baen Books main website paid at the normal paying rates for professional story submissions. Deadline : February 1, 2024.

$1000 for 1000 Words Creative Writing Contest is sponsored by the Leyla Beban Young Authors Foundation. Restrictions : Students enrolled in grades 6–12. Genre : Short fiction of exactly 1000 words. Prize : Two $1,000 scholarship prizes will be awarded, one for grades 6–8 and one for grades 9–12. Seven $100 cash prizes will also be awarded for winning entries, one per grade level. Deadline: February 1, 2024.

Paterson Prize for Books for Young People . Genre : Most outstanding book for young people published in previous year. There is a $1000 award in each category: Pre-K — Grade 3; Grades 4–6; Grades 7–12. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 1, 2024.

St. Gallen Symposium Global Essay Competition . Restrictions : Writers must be enrolled in a graduate or postgraduate programme (master level or higher) in any field of study at a regular university, and be born in 1993 or later. Genre : Essay on on the best or worst legacy from previous generations. Length: 2,100 words. Prize : CHF20,000, split between three winners; they’ll also cover travel, accommodation, and admission to the symposium in Switzerland. Deadline : February 1, 2024.

Paterson Poetry Prize . Genre : Poetry book published in 2021. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 1, 2024.

Gannon University Poetry Contest . Restrictions : Entrants must be a US high school student or a home-schooled student in grades nine through twelve. Genre : Poetry. Each student may enter 1 or 2 poems; each poem may be no longer than 50 lines. Prize : First Place: $100.00 Second Place: $75.00 Third Place: $50.00. Deadline: February 1, 2024.

Narrative Magazine High School Contest . Restrictions : Open to high school students aged 15–18. Genre : Poetry on theme. Prize : Up to $500. Deadline : February 1, 2024.

Wednesday Club Junior Poetry Prize . Restrictions : High School Students in Grades 9 through 12 in the St. Louis Area. Genre : Poetry. Two individual poems. Prizes : $200, $150, $100, $80, $50, and up to five $25 honorable mentions TEACHER AWARDS: $200, $150, $100. (Applies to teachers of first three student winners.) Deadline: February 1, 2024.

Wednesday Club Poetry Prize . Restrictions : Adults over 18; living within a 50-mile radius of St. Louis. Genre : Poetry. Two individual poems. Prizes : $500, $300, $150. Deadline: February 1, 2024.

The Write Track . Genre : Full-length historical romance. Prize : $1,000 and a publishing contract with Dragonblade Publishing. Deadline: February 1, 2024.

United States/Japan Creative Artists Residencies . This is a 3–5 month residency in Japan. Grant : $24,000. Deadline : February 1, 2024.

North Carolina Student Poetry Contest . Restrictions : Open to student poets from 3rd grade to university undergraduates attending schools in North Carolina. Genres : Unpublished poems (submit one poem). Prizes : 1st Place winners will receive a $60 check, an NCPS award certificate, and a free copy of Pinesong. 2nd Place winners receive $40, an NCPS award certificate, and a free copy of Pinesong. 3rd Place winners receive $25, an NCPS award certificate, and a free copy of Pinesong. Deadline : February 2, 2024.

The University of Chester Flash (Youth) . Restrictions : Open to Scottish students aged 16–19 who are studying in the UK. Genre : flash fiction of up to 360 words. Prize : Up to £100. Deadline : February 2, 2024.

Bath Flash Fiction Award . Genre : Flash fiction, 300 words max. Prize : £1000 prize for the winner, £300 second and £100 third. Two commendations £30 each. Deadline : February 4, 2024.

The Golden Triangle Golden Haiku poetry contest . Genre : Haiku on theme “Transforming Paths.” Prize : Up to $500. Deadline : February 4, 2024.

Max Afford Playwrights’ Award . Restrictions : Open to Australian playwrights aged 18–40. Genre : Full-length plays. Prize : A$15,000. Deadline : February 4, 2024.

Furious Fiction . Genre : Flash fiction. “On the first Friday of every month, a new set of story prompts will be revealed. You will have 55 hours to submit your best 500-word (or fewer) story.” Prize : $500AUD. Deadline : February 4, 2024. Opens February 2 .

Stop the Hate: Youth Speak Out Essay Contest Grades 6–12 . Stop the Hate® is designed to create an appreciation and understanding among people of differing religions, races, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. Genre : Essay, 500 words. Restrictions : Northeast Ohio 6–12th Graders. Prize : $20,000 scholarship. Deadline : Grade 6–10: February 8, 2024.

Walter Rumsey Marvin Grant . Restrictions : Open to authors under 30 years of age who have not had a book published. Applicant must have been born in Ohio or have lived in Ohio for a minimum of five years. Genre : Short fiction and creative non-fiction. Prize : $1,000. Deadline : February 10, 2024.

Aniko Press Summer Flash Fiction Competition . Genre : Flash fiction (100 words max) on theme: Wave. Prize : Publication on their website and social media, a copy of Pulitzer Prize-winning Stay True by Hua Hsu plus a copy of the latest issue of Aniko Magazine. Deadline : February 11, 2024.

Writers’ & Artists’ Short Story Competition . Genre : Short story. All entries must be original unpublished prose of 2,000 words or fewer. Prize : A place on one of Arvon’s residential writing courses and publication. Deadline : February 12, 2024.

The Tomorrow Prize & The Green Feather Award . Restrictions : Open to Los Angeles County high school students. Genre : Science fiction, and environmentally focused sci-fi story. Prize : Tomorrow Prize: $250, $150, and $100 USD. Green Feather Award: $250.00 & online publication by the Nature Nexus Institute. Deadline : February 13, 2024.

Charles Crupi Memorial Poetry Contest . Restrictions : Open to high school students in Michigan. Genre : Poetry. Prize : 1st place — $250 and publication in The Albion Review, 2nd place — $150 and publication in The Albion Review; 3rd place — $100 and publication in The Albion Review. Deadline : February 14, 2024.

Tree2mydoor Valentines Day Poetry competition . Restrictions : Open to UK citizens. Genre : Witty or soppy, romantic or silly Valentines Day poems. Prize : £100 worth of Tree2mydoor gift vouchers. Deadline : February 14, 2024.

James Welch Prize for Indigenous Poets . Restrictions : The prize is open to new, emerging, and established poets who are community-recognized members of tribal nations within the United States and its trust territories (including American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, Chamorros, and American Samoans). Only poets who have not published more than one book-length collection are eligible; however, previous publication is not a requirement. Eligible contestants must be community-recognized members of their tribal nation. Formal tribal enrollment is not the only way of acknowledging belonging, and this prize aims to recognize all Native writers who are in community. Previous first place winners of this prize are not eligible, but previous finalists are welcome to submit work. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Stop the Hate: Youth Speak Out Essay Contest Grades 6–12 . Stop the Hate® is designed to create an appreciation and understanding among people of differing religions, races, cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. Genre : Essay, 500 words. Restrictions : Northeast Ohio 6–12th Graders. Prize : $20,000 scholarship. Deadline : February 15, 2024. Grades 11–12:

Harold Morton Landon Translation Award . Genre : Poetry collection translated from any language into English and published in the previous calendar year. Prize : $1,000. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Governor General’s Literary Awards . Restrictions : Books must have been written or translated by Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada. They do not need to be residing in Canada. Genre : The Governor General’s Literary Awards are given annually to the best English-language and the best French-language book in each of the seven categories of Fiction, Literary Non-fiction, Poetry, Drama, Young People’s Literature (Text), Young People’s Literature (Illustrated Books) and Translation (from French to English). Prize : $25,000. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Ambroggio Prize . Restrictions : Poet must be a U.S. Citizen; Resident of the United States for the ten-year period prior to the submission deadline, or Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) status, Temporary Protected Status (TPS), Legal Permanent Status (LPS), or any subsequent categories designated by the U.S. authorities as conferring similar enhanced status upon non-citizens living in the United States. Genre : Book-length poetry manuscript originally written in Spanish and with an English translation. Prize : $1000 and publication. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Hub City Press . Restrictions : Open to writers of all levels who have lived in South Carolina for at least one year prior to submission of their manuscript. Genre : Novel. Prize : $1,500 and book publication, including marketing and tour support from Hub City Press and the series partners, as well as placement in all South Carolina state libraries and readings/events with presenting sponsors. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Hodson Trust–John Carter Brown Library Fellowship . Genre : Nonfiction (includes creative nonfiction). A book-in-process relating to the literature, history, culture, or art of the Americas before 1830. Award : $20,000. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

CAAPP Book Prize . Restrictions : Open to writers of African descent. Genre : First or second book by a writer of African descent and is open to the full range of writers embodying African and African diasporic experience. The book can be of any genre that is, or intersects with, poetry, including poetry, hybrid work, speculative prose, and/or translation. Prize : $3000 and publication. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Haiku Society of America Merit Book Awards for Excellence in Published Haiku, Translation, and Criticism . Genre : Published book. Books must have been published in 2022 and must clearly contain a printed 2022 copyright. A member, author, or publisher may submit or nominate more than one title. At least 50 percent of the book must be haiku, senryu, or haibun, or prose about these subjects (books mostly of tanka, for example, are not eligible). Prize : $500. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Vermont Studio Center — Full Fellowship Awards . The Vermont Studio Center offers 54 fellowships; open to anyone in the world. Deadline : February 15, 2024. (There is now a $25 application fee)

Paul-Victor Winters Memorial Creative Writing Contest . Restrictions : Open to NJ high school students in private or public schools, grades 9–12. Genre : Flash Fiction and Poetry. Prize : $500 top prize. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Hefner Heitz Kansas Book Award in Poetry (Kansas Book Award) . Restrictions : Author must establish a connection to Kansas by birth, education, employment, residence or other significant claim. Genre : Novel or collection of short stories. The nominee’s book must have a publication date of 2021, 2022, or 2023. Prize : $1,000. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

53-Word Story Contest . Genre : 53-word story. Prize : Publication in Prime Number Magazine and a free book from Press 53. Deadline : February 15, 2024.

Andres Montoya Poetry Prize . Restrictions : Open to Latino authors who are residents of the US. Genre : First book of poetry published by a Latino author. Prize : $1,000 and publication by the University of Notre Dame Press. Deadline : February 16, 2024. Biennial prize .

Iris N. Spencer Undergraduate Poetry Award . Restrictions : Open to undergraduate poets who are enrolled in a United States college or university. Genre : Poetry composed in the traditional modes of meter, rhyme and received forms. Prize : First prize $1,500, and a runner-up prize $500. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Villanelle Award . Restrictions : Open to undergraduate poets who are enrolled in a United States college or university. Genre : Villanelle. Prize : $1,000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Sonnet Award . Restrictions : Open to undergraduate poets who are enrolled in a United States college or university. Genre : Sonnet. Prize : $1,000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Myong Cha Son Haiku Award . Restrictions : Open to undergraduate poets who are enrolled in a United States college or university. Genre : Haiku. Prize : First prize $1,500, and a runner-up prize $500. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Rhina P. Espaillat Poetry Award . Restrictions : Open to undergraduate poets who are enrolled in a United States college or university. Genre : Original poems written in Spanish and translations of English poems to Spanish. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Jeanne Córdova Prize for Lesbian/Queer Nonfiction . Restrictions : Open to a writer committed to nonfiction work that captures the depth and complexity of lesbian/queer life, culture, and/or history. The winner of the prize will have published at least one book and show promise in continuing to produce groundbreaking and challenging work. Prize : $2,500. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

The Denneny Award for Editorial Excellence . Restrictions : The award will go to an editor whose commitment to the publication of LGBTQ+ writers and literature contributes significantly to the advancement of the LGBTQ+ community. Candidates can work in any genre, be at any publication, and be at any stage of their career. For 35 years as an editor at Macmillan, St. Martin’s Press, and Crown Publishing, Michael Denneny championed LGBTQ writers and stories as one of the first openly gay editors working at major publishing houses. The Denneny Award for Editorial Excellence is the only editorial award that not only recognizes the support provided by editors to the literary community, but also the importance of editors in the advancement of a social movement. Prize : The winner will receive a cash prize of $2,500. Deadline : February 16, 2024. [ On a personal note, Michael Denneny was my editor at St. Martin’s, I’m sad to hear he has passed away .]

The Pat Holt Prize for Critical Arts Writing . Restrictions : The award will go an LGBTQ arts critic or literary reviewer committed to examining queer works of art and culture, as Holt ground-breakingly did for 16 years. This award is made possible by Lesbians for Good, a fund of the Horizons Foundation. Prize : $4,000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Dr. Jim Duggins Outstanding LGBTQ Mid-Career Novelist Prize . Restrictions : Open to LGBTQ mid-career novelists who have published at least three novels. or two novels and substantial additional literary work (including poems, stories, or essays). Genre : Published book. Prize : $5000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Randall Kenan Prize for Black LGBTQ Fiction . Restrictions : Open to a Black LGBTQ writer whose fiction explores themes of Black LGBTQ life, culture, and/or history. To be eligible, the winner of the prize must have published at least one book and show promise in continuing to produce groundbreaking work. Prize : $3,000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Judith A. Markowitz Award for Emerging LGBTQ Writers . Restrictions : The nominee must self-identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer. The nominee must have written and published at least one but no more than two books of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Genre : Fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Andres Montoya Poetry Prize . Restrictions : Open to Latino authors who are residents of the US. Genre : First book of poetry published by a Latino author. Prize : $1,000 and publication by the University of Notre Dame Press. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Scotiabank Giller Prize . Restrictions : Open to books published in Canada in English. Books must be published in Canada in English between October 1, 2023, and February 28, 2024 to be eligible for the 2023 Prize. Must be nominated by publisher. Genre : Fiction. Full-length novel or collection of short stories published in English, either originally, or in translation. Prize : $100,000 to the winner and $10,000 to each of the finalists. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize . Genre : Adventure writing novel. Prize : £10,000. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

Luminarts Creative Writing Fellowship . The Creative Writing Fellowship awards two $7,500 grant Fellowships for excellence in creative writing in the categories of prose and poetry, in fiction and nonfiction. Applicants submit a two-page written piece (either a stand-alone piece or an excerpt of a larger piece such as a novel or short story). Open to writers between the ages of 18 and 30 years old at the time of application; be enrolled in, or have graduated from, a degree program; and live within 150 miles of the Union League Club of Chicago. Genre : Poetry or prose, fiction and nonfiction. Prize : $7,500. Deadline : February 16, 2024.

J. Michael Samuel Prize for Emerging Writers Over 50 . Restrictions : Open to unpublished LGBTQ writers over 50 working in any genre. Genre : All genres. Prize : $5000. Deadline : February 16, 2043.

Jacob Zilber Prize for Short Fiction . Restrictions : Open to BIPOC writers. Genre : Short fiction. Prize : $1,500 top prize. Deadline : Deadline : February 17, 2024.

Gaithersburg Book Festival Poetry Contest . Restrictions: Open to high school students (grades 9–12) from across the Washington Metropolitan Area (Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC). Genre : Poetry. Prize : First, 2nd and 3rd place winners will receive $250, $100 and $50 gift certificates. Deadline : February 22, 2024.

The Matthew Power Literary Reporting Award supports the work of a promising early-career nonfiction writer on a story that uncovers truths about the human condition. Genres: Nonfiction journalism works in progress with “strong, character-driven narratives with detailed scene writing and lyrical description.” Restrictions : The award will not fund proposals to report on armed conflicts where journalists are already imperiled, nor projects that are mainly investigatory. Prize : $6,000 upon announcement of the winning proposal; $3,000 upon evidence of substantial progress (usually a first draft); and $3,500 upon completion and acceptance by the Award committee.. Deadline : February 22, 2024.

Wiley-Silver Prize in Civil War History . Genre : First book or monograph in Civil War history published in the previous year. Books or monographs published by scholarly or popular presses are eligible. Prize : $2,000. Deadline : February 23, 2024.

Christopher Tower Poetry Competition . Restrictions : Open to UK students between 16–18 years of age. Genre : Poetry, one poem, maximum 48 lines. Theme is ‘Mirror.’ Prize : £5,000. Deadline : February 23, 2024.

Young Authors Sacred Essay Contest . Restrictions : Open to US students aged 13–18. Genre : Essay discussing the power of love to strengthen communities and transform lives. Explore themes such as compassion, mutual aid, tenderness, justice, reconciliation, and healing. Prize : $100 and publication. Deadline : February 23, 2024.

Harper’s Bazaar short-story competition . Restrictions : Open to UK residents or nationals, aged 18 or over. Genre : Original, unpublished short story, written in English on the subject of ‘The experiment’ up to 2,000 words. Prize : Two-night stay at Chewton Glen in Hampshire (UK). Deadline : February 25, 2024.

Western Australian Premier’s Book Awards . Restrictions : Open to authors who either are citizens or permanent residents of Western Australia. Genre : Book published during the preceding calendar year in a variety of genres. Prize : Up to A$60,000. Deadline : February 26, 2024.

Atwood Gibson Writers’ Trust Fiction Prize . Genre : Fiction. Restrictions: Titles must be published in Canada and written by Canadians. No self-published works. Prize : $60,000 will be awarded to a novel or short-story collection published between October 1, 2023 and February 28, 2024 . Prizes of $5,000 will be awarded to each of the finalists. Deadline : February 27, 2024.

Hilary Weston Writers’ Trust Prize for Non-Fiction . Genre : Literary non-fiction. Restrictions : Titles must be published in Canada and written by Canadians. Prize : $60,000 will be awarded to a literary nonfiction book published between October 1, 2023 and February 26, 2024. Deadline : February 27, 2024.

Writers’ Trust Dayne Ogilvie Prize for LGBTQ2S+ Emerging Writers . Restrictions : Open to Canadian LGBTQ+ writers. Genre : Debut book published between October 1, 2023 and February 26, 2024. Prize : $10,000. Deadline : February 27, 2024.

Victor Howes Prize in Poetry . Restrictions : Undergraduate English majors currently enrolled at a New England college (2-year or 4-year). Genre : Poetry. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 28, 2024.

Diana Woods Memorial Award in Creative Nonfiction . Genre : Essay, maximum 5,000 words. Prize : $250 top prize. Deadline : February 28, 2024.

The Gabo Prize for Literature in Translation & Multi-Lingual Texts . Genre : Literary translations and multi-lingual texts. Prize : $200. Deadline : February 28, 2024.

Beatrice Medicine Award for Scholarship in American Indian Studies . Genre : Essay or monograph about Native American studies published in previous calendar year. Prize : $250. Deadline : February 28, 2024.

Electa Quinney Award for Published American Indian Stories . Genre : Story. “This award seeks to highlight the work of story creators who continue the tradition of teaching through narratives often crossing the boundaries of genres, formats and disciplines. To celebrate the dissemination of stories into spaces where they can be shared all published stories qualify including small press and fine arts printing.” Prize : $250. Deadline : February 28, 2024.

Toronto Star Short Story Contest . Restrictions: Open to Ontario residents 16 years of age or older. Genre : Short story. Prize : 1st prize — $5000; 2nd prize — $2000, 3rd prize — $1000. Deadline : February 28, 2024.

The Orwell Society Dystopian Fiction Prize . Restrictions : Open to current students (both BA and MA) at British universities. Genre : Dystopian narratives of 3,000 words. Prize : £750. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Black Caucus of the American Library Association Self-Published E-Book Literary Award . Restrictions : Open to African-Americans. Genre : Self-Published E-Book in fiction and poetry written by African-Americans that depict the “cultural, historical, or sociopolitical aspects of the Black Diaspora.” Prize : $2,500. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

The Kelpies Prize (Scotland) . Restrictions : Open to Scottish authors. Genre : Children’s fiction and nonfiction, picture books. Prize : £1,000, a publishing contract, a writing retreat, and a year of mentoring by an editorial team. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

2024 Sijo Competition . Genre : A Sijo poem. Prize : Adult division: First ($1,000), Second ($750), Third ($500); Pre-college division: First ($500), Second ($400), Third ($300) Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Sejong Cultural Society Essay Competition . Restrictions : Open to writers ages 19–30. Also see youth and children’s divisions . Genre : Essay responding to Topic: “I’m Waiting for You” by Kim Bo-young. Prizes : $1000, $750, $500, $50 for honorable mention, plus possible publication. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Honest Holiday Haiku Contest . Genre : Haiku. “In the spirit of Scrooge, Santa, and everything in between, we invite you to write your most honest holiday haiku. Use this space to vent about the itchy socks your great aunt insists on gifting you each year or wax poetic about a Valentine’s Day mishap.” Prize : Free Gotham class. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Sejong Cultural Society Sijo Competition . Restrictions : Open to writers ages 19–30. Also see youth division . Genre : Sijo. Prizes : Adult: $1000, $750, $500, $50 for honorable mention, plus possible publication. Pre-college division: First ($500), Second ($400), Third ($300) Deadline : February 29, 2024.

The Canterbury Tales Writing Competition . Restrictions : Open to all students of school age including not only those in schools and college communities, but also students who are home educated and in any other young people’s community organisations. Genre : Poetry and fiction: See prompts . Prize : £300 top prize. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Imagine Little Tokyo . Little Tokyo Historical Society (LTHS) seeks fictional short stories in Japanese or English for its “Imagine Little Tokyo” writing contest. The setting of the story should be in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, CA– either past, present or future. Prize : $1000. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

The Momentum Grant for Early-Career Translators . “The grant is intended to facilitate the completion of a substantial sample of a book-length work of prose translation suitable for submission to English-language publishers, and will be awarded to an individual translator who has not yet received a book-length contract for translation work. We particularly welcome submissions from translators from historically underrepresented cultures and backgrounds.” Grant : $3,000. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Graywolf Press Nonfiction Prize . Restrictions : Open to US writers only. Genre : Full-length manuscript of creative nonfiction by a writer not yet established in the genre. Prize : $12,000 and publication. Deadline : February 29, 2024. Opens February 1 .

Rattle Ekphrastic Challenge . Genre : Poem inspired by artwork. (See site for image.) Prize : $100. Deadline : February 29, 2024. This is a monthly contest .

Substack runs a monthly short story competition. Their mission is to “revive the art of the short story, support artists, and produce something wonderful.” Genre : Short story. Length: 6000- 10,000 words. Prize : $100 plus 50% of subscription revenue to be sent by Paypal, Zelle, or check. Deadline : February 29, 2024. Reprints are ok so long as you still have the rights to distribute.

#GWstorieseverywhere. Genre : Micro fiction. Your story must be no longer than 25 words, with a max of 280 characters, including spaces and the hashtag. See themes . Prize : Free Gotham class. Deadline : February 29, 2024.

Like this article? For more articles about the publishing world, useful tips on how to get an agent, agents who are looking for clients, how to market and promote your work, building your online platform, how to get reviews, self-publishing, as well as publishers accepting manuscripts directly from writers (no agent required) visit Publishing and Other Forms of Insanity .

Written by Erica Verrillo

Helping writers get published and bolstering their flagging spirits at http://publishedtodeath.blogspot.com/

More from Erica Verrillo and Curiosity Never Killed the Writer

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Our annual Writing Contests Issue features more than forty free contests for emerging writers, advice on crafting a winning entry, and tips on handling losses; a profile of novelist R. O. Kwon; Crystal Hana Kim on multilingual literature, cultural memory, and writing as translation; essays on leveraging book reviews to hone your writing skills, making sense of author questionnaires, and refusing silence as a writer during the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; reports on a serial plagiarist and managing submissions in the age of AI; plus writing prompts and more.

Queer Ambition, Unbound: A Profile of R. O. Kwon

In her second novel, Exhibit , best-selling author R. O. Kwon explores what happens when a creative woman lets go of her inhibitions—and faces her own fears in the process.

Free Writing Contests

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Hey, Jealousy: We’re All in This Together, Until We’re Up for the Same Award

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The Contest You Didn’t Enter: Dealing With “Best” Lists, for Better or Worse

Year-end “best-of” roundups can hit like a truck, especially when our culture’s system of awarding recognition can feel arbitrary and unfair. A fiction writer offers perspectives to better understand the value of these lists and protect your joy.

On Losing: The Art of Literary Resiliency

For the most part, people do not win contests—and that’s okay. A novelist and professional therapist reframes the idea of losing as an objective evaluation of worth; instead, think of a loss as a blank space, a preamble before the wins.

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Page One: Where New and Noteworthy Books Begin

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Prize Judged by Incarcerated Readers

The new Inside Literary Prize represents an opportunity to connect and honor the perspectives of incarcerated individuals by inviting hundreds of such readers to discuss and select a winner from a slate of National Book Award finalists.

The Anthologist: A Compendium of Uncommon Collections

An introduction to three new anthologies, including Disability Intimacy: Essays on Love, Care, and Desire and A Mouth Holds Many Things: A De-Canon Hybrid-Literary Collection .

Managing Submissions in the Age of AI

As AI makes it easier for people to generate text, literary editors are wrestling with how to weed out submissions by authors trying to pass off AI work as their own from those that use the technology in a more ethical way.

Small Press Points: Split/Lip Press

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Literary MagNet: Saba Keramati

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The Written Image: Native Narrative Art

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Thinning the Line: On Multilingual Literature, Cultural Memory, and Writing as Translation

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Close Reading: How Writing Book Reviews Made Me a Better Writer

A freelance writer and editor breaks down her insights from being a prolific reviewer on Goodreads and shares how the experience helped develop her personal voice, analytical skills, and impartial eye.

In This Time of War: The Muses Refuse Silence

A poet explores the struggle to balance his roles as writer, educator, and activist during the war in Gaza and the refusal of silence during a conflict that has killed tens of thousands of civilians.

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Winners of national penmanship contest crowned as handwriting is 'having a moment'

It’s regarded, hands down, as the Super Bowl of penmanship tournaments.

The Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest, now in its 33rd year, crowned its 2024 grand champions on Monday, rewarding nine students from six states for their picture-perfect letters.

Ten-year old Zita Miller of White Bear Lake, Minnesota, took top honors in the fifth grade category. Her winning submission was one of the contest’s 80,000 entries.

“I like handwriting because it’s like art, drawing swirls and vines and curls,” Miller said, adding that she enjoys penning original mystery stories by hand.

Namuun Baasanbold, from Carmel, Indiana, was named grand champion in the first grade category, and said she likes to give handwritten “love notes” to family and friends.

“Writing by hand makes me feel special,” she said.

The contest celebrates a centuries-old practice, but the victories come as handwriting is experiencing a kind of renaissance in the U.S. In January, California became the 22nd state to require cursive to be taught in schools — a significant jump from 2016, when just 12 states mandated it.

At the same time, various studies published over the past decade have detailed how writing with pencil and paper can benefit memory, cognitive development, reading comprehension and fine motor skills.

“Handwriting is definitely having a moment,” said Sharon Quirk-Silva, a member of the California state Assembly who sponsored the bill. She said she heard from people from all over the country who penned “beautifully handwritten notes” of support for the new law.

“We live in a very polarized nation. So many issues are contentious. But with this handwriting bill, we had full bipartisan support and goodwill. The importance of handwriting is something people seem to agree on,” she said.

Quirk-Silva said she backed the bill, in large part, because of her own experience — before becoming a lawmaker, she taught elementary school for 25 years.

“For years, technology has been taking over the curriculum in schools, with many kids being dormant in front of the screen, using two or three screens a day. Now, there’s a feeling of, ‘Let’s get pens and pencils back in kids’ hands,’” she said.

Although the California law mandates that first through sixth graders in the state receive cursive instruction, Quirk-Silva said she believes that writing by hand — in print or cursive — is an important language arts tool.

“It’s a way of slowing down a little bit, taking your thoughts from your brain to your hand and physically doing the writing,” she said.

Sophia Vinci-Booher, an assistant professor of psychology and human development at Vanderbilt University, said her research found that writing by hand enabled preschool students to form connections in the brain that likely support early letter recognition.

For that study , published in 2016, 20 children were asked to practice certain letters by writing them over and over, and practice others by pressing a button.

“Then we asked the children to go into an MRI scanner and look at those letters they’d been practicing,” Vinci-Booher explained. Her team analyzed the children’s brain activity to assess the functional connectivity between different areas of their brains.

“We found that the connection was stronger with letters they wrote by hand than those they tapped,” she said.

The research underscores the importance of the physical act of forming symbols, Vinci-Booher added.

“Writing by hand is a good thing for kids because it supports early reading development and it engages the fine motor system, which is developmentally important,” she said.

A 2021 study measured people’s brain activity during a memory task, this time finding that University of Tokyo students exhibited stronger activity and better recall after they had written information down on paper than when they did on a smartphone or even with a stylus on a tablet. The researchers suggested that the physical act of writing on paper provides the brain more details that trigger memory, and concluded that using paper notebooks can help students retain information in part because of their “tangible permanence.”

A similar study published in January compared the brain activity of students at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology who took notes by hand to the activity of those who typed their notes. The findings suggested that the students who wrote by hand had higher levels of electrical activity across a wide range of brain regions responsible for sensory processing and memory.

The results come as little surprise to many educators.

“I’ve seen firsthand that the kids learn more when they write by hand,” said Geeta Kadakia, who teaches second through fifth grade at the DAV Montessori School in Houston. “The lightbulb goes off through those achievements in handwriting, and handwriting leads to achievements in other areas, even math. When students make their numbers more neatly, their math scores improve.”

Laura Gajderowicz taught elementary school for 33 years in Indiana before retiring in 2022. She said she worried as she watched handwriting take a back seat to technology in U.S. classrooms in the early 2000s.

“Writing by hand does so much to help with the development of a student’s eye-hand coordination,” Gajderowicz said, adding: “I’m not against technology — I just think there’s a place at the table for both technology and handwriting when it comes to learning.”

This year, Gajderowicz served as a regional judge in the Zaner-Bloser contest.

“I was pleasantly surprised to see how many entries we had, especially from children in the upper grades,” she said.

Gajderowicz selected winners using criteria that analyzed the mechanics and precision of the letters students wrote, including their shapes, sizes, slant and spacing.

Contestants were asked to write the sentence, “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog,” because it includes the entire alphabet, as well as a sentence explaining why handwriting makes them a better reader and writer.

Baasanbold said she was “over the moon” to find out she won: “I screamed and celebrated with friends at a restaurant with pizza and an appetizer and a sundae for dessert,” she said.

Her prizes include a trophy and $500 — plus bragging rights.

“I like to use my handwriting to impress people,” she said.

Mary Pflum is a national field producer for NBC News, based in New York.

• Classifieds

Expedition Academy High School student wins statewide writing contest

EA English Teacher Mr. Fredrick Schwartz, Owen Calzada, and Sweetwater County School District No. 2 Superintendent Craig Barringer celebrate Calzada's winning story.

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Opinion | Republican lawmaker crushes Tucker Carlson with surprisingly legitimate commentary

Texas Congressman Dan Crenshaw blasted the former Fox News host for being a ‘click-chaser’ in a capable rant on X.

Admittedly, I haven’t paid much attention to Tucker Carlson since he got booted from Fox News a year ago. Actually, I had pretty much stopped watching him on Fox because his whole schtick was nothing more than saying, “Hey, I’m just asking questions” with a quizzical look on his face, all while knowing full well that he was dishonestly stirring up trouble.

Other than an embarrassingly inept interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Carlson really hasn’t done anything worth paying attention to of late.

So why bring him up now?

Because a well-known Republican lawmaker finally had enough of Carlson’s act. Texas Congressman Dan Crenshaw blasted Carlson in a post on X on Wednesday. Crenshaw was responding to Carlson’s interview with Palestinian Christian Rev. Dr. Munther Isaac for Carlson’s online show, as well as comments online about the interview. Carlson was disapproving of Christian leaders in the United States for not being more critical of what’s happening in Gaza.

There’s a lot to unpack about Carlson’s view of what’s happening and for having Isaac as a guest. There’s plenty online about all that if you’re interested. (Here’s how the right is reacting, according to this story from Mediaite’s Alex Griffing .)

What I wanted to get to was Crenshaw seeming to have an excellent handle on how Carlson operates, regardless of the subject he’s talking about at any given moment.

Crenshaw tweeted :

This is who Tucker is: a click-chaser. Tucker’s MO is simple: defend America’s enemies and attack America’s allies. There isn’t an objective bone left in that washed up news host’s body. Mindless contrarianism is his guiding principle, buttressed by his childish tactic to “juSt aSK quEsTiOns!” But any educated adult, especially one with such a long career in journalism, should occasionally try *answering* some of those questions objectively. But he never does. Instead, he uses his platform to sow doubt and paranoia and false narratives. He does this for one simple reason: clicks and engagement, which of course translate to monetary benefit. He wants you to believe he is the last place you can go to for truth, that he’s the ONLY one brave enough to reveal the elitist lies being told. This nonsense about Christian mistreatment in Israel is just the latest example. Tucker will eventually fade into nothingness, because his veneer of faux intellectualism is quickly falling apart and revealing who he truly is: a cowardly, know-nothing elitist who is full of (expletive).

Wow, with commentary like that, Crenshaw might become a media critic.

Another round of layoffs at The Wall Street Journal

Another day, more grim layoff news at a noted news organization.

According to several reports, The Wall Street Journal had more cuts Wednesday. The Daily Beast’s Corbin Bolies reported that the video and social media desks were most impacted.

The number of layoffs was 11, according to Bolies: four producers on the visuals desk, two social media editors, two video journalists, a senior video journalist, a video producer and one reporter.

Boiles wrote, “Some of the video staffers laid off include those in the Journal’s Journalists as Creators program, a partnership with Google to develop YouTube channels centered around individual journalists and subject matters. Staffers were told that the agreement was not renewed and the funding for those staffers had lapsed, a Journal staffer told The Daily Beast.”

These layoffs come less than two months after 20 staffers were let go from the Journal’s Washington bureau.

Boiles added, “The newspaper has since laid off various foreign correspondents and standards and ethics editors in recent months, including veteran editor Christine Glancey and two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist Dion Nissenbaum, who covered the Middle East.”

From the inside

I wrote in Wednesday’s newsletter about internal drama at NPR that has media followers on the outside paying attention. Uri Berliner, a senior business editor at NPR, blasted the news organization in a piece for The Free Press: “I’ve Been at NPR for 25 Years. Here’s How We Lost America’s Trust.” Berliner criticized NPR for a variety of things, including the suggestion that NPR has become an activist organization and sacrificed journalistic integrity in the process.

NPR editor-in-chief Edith Chapin responded in a memo to staff defending the news organization, saying in part, “I and my colleagues on the leadership team strongly disagree with Uri’s assessment of the quality of our journalism and the integrity of our newsroom processes. We’re proud to stand behind the exceptional work that our desks and shows do to cover a wide range of challenging stories.”

NPR’s David Folkenflik weighed in on his own company in “NPR defends its journalism after senior editor says it has lost the public’s trust.”

Folkenflik gave the story fair treatment but also noted, “Some of Berliner’s NPR colleagues are responding heatedly. Fernando Alfonso, a senior supervising editor for digital news, wrote that he wholeheartedly rejected Berliner’s critique of the coverage of the Israel-Hamas conflict, for which NPR’s journalists, like their peers, periodically put themselves at risk.

Alfonso also took issue with Berliner’s concern over the focus on diversity at NPR.”

Alfonso told Folkenflik, “As a person of color who has often worked in newsrooms with little to no people who look like me, the efforts NPR has made to diversify its workforce and its sources are unique and appropriate given the news industry’s long-standing lack of diversity. These efforts should be celebrated and not denigrated as Uri has done.”

Folkenflik wrote that Berliner declined comment originally, saying his essay spoke for itself. But after Folkenflik’s story was first published, Berliner addressed Alfonso’s comment by saying, “I never criticized NPR’s priority of achieving a more diverse workforce in terms of race, ethnicity and sexual orientation. I have not ‘denigrated’ NPR’s newsroom diversity goals. That’s wrong.”

Meanwhile, not surprisingly, Donald Trump jumped all over this story, especially the part in Berliner’s essay where Berliner wrote, “Like many unfortunate things, the rise of advocacy took off with Donald Trump. As in many newsrooms, his election in 2016 was greeted at NPR with a mixture of disbelief, anger, and despair. (Just to note, I eagerly voted against Trump twice but felt we were obliged to cover him fairly.) But what began as tough, straightforward coverage of a belligerent, truth-impaired president veered toward efforts to damage or topple Trump’s presidency.”

On his Truth Social, Trump wrote , “NO MORE FUNDING FOR NPR, A TOTAL SCAM! EDITOR SAID THEY HAVE NO REPUBLICANS, AND IS ONLY USED TO ‘DAMAGE TRUMP.’ THEY ARE A LIBERAL DISINFORMATION MACHINE. NOT ONE DOLLAR!!!”

Trying too hard

The New York Post is sometimes going to, well, New York Post, if you catch my meaning. Part of their appeal is gossip — gossip about celebrities, politicians, athletes and what have you. They turned Page Six — once the page where all the juicy gossip could be found — into its own signature brand.

And, hey, who doesn’t like some good gossip now and then? Like who was seen “canoodling” with whom at some low-lit bar? Which actors are feuding? Who’s getting married and who’s getting divorced?

But sometimes in pursuit of something hot, you look silly. Take this week. The Post tweeted out two photos of legendary actor Gene Hackman, now 94 and retired, outside of a gas station with a cup of coffee and a little box of apple pie. The tweet said, “Gene Hackman, 94, spotted in new photos wearing nearly identical outfit from weeks earlier.”

The tweet linked to a story about a rare public sighting of Hackman.

But about that tweet, which showed two photos of Hackman wearing the same thing: gray pants, a flannel shirt with a sweater vest and a white ball cap.

OK, a few things about this. One, is there really no other celebrity news that Hackman’s perfectly respectable clothes are worth talking about? And, I don’t know about you, but I don’t throw away my clothes after wearing them once. I do wear the same pants and shirt combinations repeatedly,

But here’s the kicker. X put this context note on the Post tweet: “The two photos shown with the headline about ‘identical outfits’ are misleading because they are images of Hackman taken during the same day. The outfit worn ‘weeks earlier’ that is referred to involved a completely different shirt and pants; only the vest and hat are the same.”

The Post took a beating on social media, as Mediaite’s Zachary Leeman noted .

Making a difference

Iowa basketball star Caitlin Clark, playing in the NCAA Championship game last Sunday. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

We’ve already seen the power Iowa basketball star Caitlin Clark had on women’s college basketball, with TV records for the women’s game being smashed thanks to her presence and play. Will she now take that following to the next level of the WNBA?

Well, the WNBA is hoping so.

Consider this: Clark will assuredly be the first pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, going to the Indiana Fever. Last season, the dismal Fever, with a record of 13-27, had one game broadcast nationally. One.

This upcoming season, which starts in May? The Fever will be on national television 36 times. That’s 36 out of 40. The breakdown: Indiana will play two games on ABC, five games on ESPN, one game on ESPN 2, two games on CBS, one game on CBS Sports Network, eight games on ION, four games on Prime Video and 13 games on NBA TV.

I saw someone on social media say the WNBA has found its LeBron James — that is, a superstar who was a household name before even entering the league.

I think a better comparison might be the combination of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, who entered the NBA after big college careers that culminated with the 1979 NCAA Championship as Bird’s Indiana State team took on Magic’s Michigan State squad. At the time, the NBA’s popularity was down and games, even the finals, were routinely shown on tape delay.

But boosted by Bird and Johnson’s transition from huge college careers to the NBA, as well as the arrival of Michael Jordan a few years later, the NBA started to pick up momentum and eventually became big-time.

Can Clark do the same for the WNBA? Can her must-see TV performances in college carry over to help the WNBA find the big success that has pretty much eluded the league in its 27 seasons of existence? We shall see.

But it’s smart to see a TV schedule built around, arguably, the biggest name the sport has ever seen.

Meanwhile, I enjoyed this piece from Mediaite’s Colby Hall, who mocked Clay Travis and others for obnoxiously brushing aside suggestions that the women might outdraw the men in this year’s NCAA Tournaments: “NCAA Women’s Final Crushes Men’s Viewership — Making Fragile Haters Look Like Buffoons.”

The ManningCast continues

(Courtesy: ESPN)

ESPN and Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions have agreed to a contract extension through 2034.

The deal means the popular “Monday Night Football with Peyton and Eli” — better known as the ManningCast, featuring Peyton and his brother Eli, with occasional celebrity guests, loosely commentating on “Monday Night Football” games — will carry on. So will original content such as “Peyton’s Places” and “Eli’s Places.”

The sides originally signed a three-year deal in 2021 and added an extension in 2022. But this nine-year extension shows just how pleased both sides are with the arrangement.

Media tidbits

• Fascinating reading from The New York Times’ David Enrich in “How a Case Against Fox News Tore Apart a Media-Fighting Law Firm.”
• A follow-up on the story Tuesday first broken by The New York Times’ Michael M. Grynbaum that ABC, CBS, CNN, Fox News and NBC have drafted a letter urging President Joe Biden and Donald Trump to participate in debates before the election. NewsNation also signed the letter, as well.
• My Poynter colleague Alex Mahadevan, director of MediaWise, with “AI is already reshaping newsrooms, AP study finds.”
• Anastasia Nyrkovskaya has been named CEO of Fortune Magazine. The New York Times’ Katie Robertson has the details .
• The International Fact-Checking Network at Poynter put out a statement on proposed legislation before the Georgian parliament.
• The Los Angeles Times’ Stephen Battaglio with “Richard Leibner, pioneering agent of TV news stars, dies at 85.”
• Sports Illustrated’s Jimmy Traina with “End of an Era: Legendary CBS Broadcaster, Verne Lundquist, Is Set for His 40th and Final Masters.”
• The Atlantic’s Derek Thompson with “The 67-Hour Rule. Married couples are working as much as ever.”
• The Wall Street Journal’s Andrew Beaton with “The Merchant Banker Who Could Win the Masters.”

More resources for journalists

• Work-Life Chemistry newsletter course: Ditch work-life balance for a more sustainable approach. Sign up for this six-week email course .
• Poynter Producer Project , June 4-Sept. 10: Apply by April 14 .
• Editorial Integrity and Leadership Initiative , fellowship for public media journalists, Sept. 30-April 13, 2025. Apply by April 22 .
• Got a story you’d like to write for Poynter? Email [email protected] with your idea, approximate timeline and word count.

Have feedback or a tip? Email Poynter senior media writer Tom Jones at [email protected] .

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