Writing Competitions
Entering writing competitions is a powerful way for high school students to grow as writers and storytellers. These contests challenge you to think creatively, refine your voice, and share your unique perspective with a wider audience. Beyond the chance to win awards or scholarships, they help you build confidence, receive valuable feedback, and strengthen skills that carry into college and future careers. Whether you write poetry, personal essays, fiction, or journalism, competitions give your words purpose and momentum—every submission is a step forward in discovering what you can do.
St. Ambrose University and Midwest Writing Center Adaptation Project
This project is looking for submissions of poetry (30 lines max.) and flash prose (fiction or nonfiction, 500 words max.). MWC will select the strongest works (approx. 20-30) for publication in an anthology, to be published by MWC Press in April 2026. All contributors to the anthology will receive $100 to their work in addition to two copies of the anthology, and the opportunity to record their work for a podcast.
Submission deadline: November 30, 2025
Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
This prestigious program offers many opportunities for students to express themselves through writing. Ten genre categories are available.
Submission deadline: December 8, 2025
Best American High School Writing
DePaul University and Big Shoulder Books are currently accepting submissions for their “Blue Book: Best American High School Writing” anthology. You can find complete submission guidelines on their website. It is free for students and teachers to submit work. Submission deadline: January 31, 2026