school notice for essay writing competition

Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition in School (2024)

Are you searching about how to write a notice on essay writing competition in school? If yes, then don’t worry because, in this blog post, I will share some of the examples of notice writing on essay writing competition. These samples notice is valid for all classes. You can also modify the school name, date, student name, etc.

So without any further delay, let’s move toward notice on essay writing competition.

Essay Writing Competition Notice

Question 1:- As a cultural secretary of The Heritage School, Gurgaon, write a notice on the school notice board inviting students who are interested to participate in the essay writing competition. You are Varun/Vyshali.

The Heritage School, Gurgaon

Date:- 9th December, 20XX

Title:- Essay Writing Competition.

All the students are hereby informed that our school is going to organise an essay competition in the school seminar hall on 15th December, 20XX. Students of classes IX to XII are eligible to participate. The topic of essay writing will be given a day before the competition. Those who are interested to participate may submit their names to their respective class teachers.

Cultural Secretary

Question 2:- Your school has planned to organise an essay writing competition on 3rd March, 20XX on the occasion of International Writers’ Day. The program will held on school meeting hall. Draft a notice giving detailed information and inviting to those who are desirous to join. Sign as Mahesh/Mahima, Head Boy/Head Girl, Gurukulam Public School, Naharlagun.

Gurukulam Public School, Naharlagun

Date:- 28th February, 20XX

Subject:- Essay Writing Competition.

An essay writing competition is being organized in our school on the occasion of International Writers Day, March 3, 20XX. SDM of our district will be the chief guest. The program will start at 10:00 am and end at 1:00 pm. The topic of the essay is how pollution affects our health biologically. The best essay writing participants will get a prize from the hand of the SDM. So, interested one contact the undersigned.

Question 3:- You are the secretary of a cultural club of your school. Write a short notice giving information about the requirement of 5 participants from your school to take part in the inter-school essay writing competition. You are Raushan/Roshani.

TSG Gurukul School, Bhubaneswar

Date:- 8th June, 20XX

Topic:- Inter-School Essay Writing Competition.

An inter-school essay writing competition will be held in the ABC Public School, Angul in the second week of this month. Five participants are to be selected to represent our school. So, students who are willing to participate are requested to give their details to their respective class teachers.

Secretary of Cultural Club

Notice for Essay Writing Competition in School

Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition in School in English.

On the occasion of the celebration of Independence Day, your school has decided to hold an essay competition in your school. As Cultural Secretary of your school, write a notice for the students of your school, inviting participation. Also mention in your notice the subject of the essay.

XYZ SCHOOL

Essay Writing Competition

Ref. No… Date…

We are very glad to announce to the students of our school that our school is going to organize an essay competition on the occasion of the celebration of the Independence Day of our country. All concerned are requested to note the following guidelines:

a. Subject of the essay : On the life and activities of any freedom fighter.

b. Word limit : 600 – 650 words

c. Last date of submission of names : 10/08/20XX

d. Venue : Seminar hall of our school

e. Date & Time : 15/08/20XX, 10 a.m.

The top three essay writing participants will get an attractive prize and merit certificates from the hand of the headmaster. Those who want to participate in the competition are hereby requested to submit their names to their respective class teachers on or before the last date.

All concerned are requested to co-operate with us to make the entire programme successful.

Countersigned by

Sd/-

Cultural Secretary

XYZ SCHOOL

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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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Jamie Smith

For the past decade, Jamie has taught writing and English literature at several universities, including Boston College, the University of Pittsburgh, and Carnegie Mellon University. She earned a Ph.D. in English from Carnegie Mellon, where she currently teaches courses and conducts research on composition, public writing, and British literature.

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Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition

Are you a student or an educator looking to organize an essay writing competition in your school? Writing a notice for an essay writing competition is an important step in spreading awareness and inviting participation from students. In this article, we will guide you through the process of writing an effective notice for an essay writing competition. We will provide you with examples and tips to ensure that your notice grabs the attention of students and encourages their active participation.

Elements of a Notice for an Essay Writing Competition

When writing a notice for an essay writing competition, there are several key elements that you should include to make it informative and compelling. These elements include:

Heading: Provide a clear and attention-grabbing heading that indicates the purpose of the notice.
Date and Ref. No: Include the date of the notice and a reference number for record-keeping purposes.
Introduction: Begin the notice with a friendly and welcoming introduction, addressing the students and explaining the purpose of the competition.
Details of the Competition: Provide information about the competition, such as the date, time, and venue. Mention the eligibility criteria, word limit, and any specific requirements or guidelines.
Topic: Clearly state the topic of the essay and its relevance to the competition. This will help students understand the theme and focus of their writing.
Submission Process: Explain how students can submit their entries, whether it’s through their class teachers, online platforms, or designated drop-off points.
Prizes and Recognition: Highlight the prizes or rewards for the winners and any additional recognition they may receive. This will motivate students to participate and put in their best efforts.
Contact Information: Provide contact details of the organizing committee or the person responsible for answering any queries related to the competition. This will ensure that interested students can seek clarification if needed.
Closing: Conclude the notice with a warm closing remark, inviting students to participate and thanking them for their attention.
Signature: Sign off the notice with the appropriate designation or title, such as the Cultural Secretary or Head Boy/Girl, to lend credibility and authority to the notice.

Examples of Notices for Essay Writing Competitions

Example 1: notice for an essay writing competition, example 2: notice for an essay writing competition, example 3: notice for inter-school essay writing competition.

Writing a notice for an essay writing competition in school requires careful thought and planning. By including all the essential elements and providing clear instructions and details, you can effectively communicate the purpose of the competition and encourage maximum participation from students. Remember to make the notice informative, engaging, and easy to understand. We hope that this guide has provided you with valuable insights and examples to help you write an outstanding notice for your essay writing competition. Best of luck with your event!

The Best Student Writing Contests for 2023-2024

Help your students take their writing to the next level.

When students write for teachers, it can feel like an assignment. When they write for a real purpose, they are empowered! Student writing contests are a challenging and inspiring way to try writing for an authentic audience— a real panel of judges —and the possibility of prize money or other incentives. We’ve gathered a list of the best student writing contests, and there’s something for everyone. Prepare highly motivated kids in need of an authentic writing mentor, and watch the words flow.

1. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

With a wide range of categories—from critical essays to science fiction and fantasy—The Scholastic Awards are a mainstay of student contests. Each category has its own rules and word counts, so be sure to check out the options before you decide which one is best for your students.

How To Enter

Students in grades 7-12, ages 13 and up, may begin submitting work in September by uploading to an online account at Scholastic and connecting to their local region. There are entry fees, but those can be waived for students in need.

2. YoungArts National Arts Competition

This ends soon, but if you have students who are ready to submit, it’s worth it. YoungArts offers a national competition in the categories of creative nonfiction, novel, play or script, poetry, short story, and spoken word. Student winners may receive awards of up to $10,000 as well as the chance to participate in artistic development with leaders in their fields.

YoungArts accepts submissions in each category through October 13. Students submit their work online and pay a $35 fee (there is a fee waiver option).

3. National Youth Foundation Programs

Each year, awards are given for Student Book Scholars, Amazing Women, and the “I Matter” Poetry & Art competition. This is a great chance for kids to express themselves with joy and strength.

The rules, prizes, and deadlines vary, so check out the website for more info.

4. American Foreign Service National High School Essay Contest

If you’re looking to help students take a deep dive into international relations, history, and writing, look no further than this essay contest. Winners receive a voyage with the Semester at Sea program and a trip to Washington, DC.

Students fill out a registration form online, and a teacher or sponsor is required. The deadline to enter is the first week of April.

5. John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest

This annual contest invites students to write about a political official’s act of political courage that occurred after Kennedy’s birth in 1917. The winner receives $10,000, and 16 runners-up also receive a variety of cash prizes.

Students may submit a 700- to 1,000-word essay through January 12. The essay must feature more than five sources and a full bibliography.

6. Bennington Young Writers Awards

Bennington College offers competitions in three categories: poetry (a group of three poems), fiction (a short story or one-act play), and nonfiction (a personal or academic essay). First-place winners receive $500. Grab a poster for your classroom here .

The contest runs from September 1 to November 1. The website links to a student registration form.

7. The Princeton Ten-Minute Play Contest

Looking for student writing contests for budding playwrights? This exclusive competition, which is open only to high school juniors, is judged by the theater faculty of Princeton University. Students submit short plays in an effort to win recognition and cash prizes of up to $500. ( Note: Only open to 11th graders. )

Students submit one 10-page play script online or by mail. The deadline is the end of March. Contest details will be published in early 2024.

8. Princeton University Poetry Contest for High School Students

The Leonard L. Milberg ’53 High School Poetry Prize recognizes outstanding work by student writers in 11th grade. Prizes range from $100 to $500.

Students in 11th grade can submit their poetry. Contest details will be published this fall.

9. The New York Times Tiny Memoir Contest

This contest is also a wonderful writing challenge, and the New York Times includes lots of resources and models for students to be able to do their best work. They’ve even made a classroom poster !

Submissions need to be made electronically by November 1.

10. Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest

The deadline for this contest is the end of October. Sponsored by Hollins University, the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest awards prizes for the best poems submitted by young women who are sophomores or juniors in high school or preparatory school. Prizes include cash and scholarships. Winners are chosen by students and faculty members in the creative writing program at Hollins.

Students may submit either one or two poems using the online form.

11. The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers

The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers is open to high school sophomores and juniors, and the winner receives a full scholarship to a Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop .

Submissions for the prize are accepted electronically from November 1 through November 30.

12. Jane Austen Society Essay Contest

High school students can win up to $1,000 and publication by entering an essay on a topic specified by the Jane Austen Society related to a Jane Austen novel.

Details for the 2024 contest will be announced in November. Essay length is from six to eight pages, not including works cited.

13. Rattle Young Poets Anthology

Open to students from 15 to 18 years old who are interested in publication and exposure over monetary awards.

Teachers may choose five students for whom to submit up to four poems each on their behalf. The deadline is November 15.

14. The Black River Chapbook Competition

This is a chance for new and emerging writers to gain publication in their own professionally published chapbook, as well as $500 and free copies of the book.

There is an $18 entry fee, and submissions are made online.

15. YouthPlays New Voices

For students under 18, the YouthPlays one-act competition is designed for young writers to create new works for the stage. Winners receive cash awards and publication.

Scroll all the way down their web page for information on the contest, which accepts non-musical plays between 10 and 40 minutes long, submitted electronically. Entries open each year in January.

16. The Ocean Awareness Contest

The 2024 Ocean Awareness Contest, Tell Your Climate Story , encourages students to write their own unique climate story. They are asking for creative expressions of students’ personal experiences, insights, or perceptions about climate change. Students are eligible for a wide range of monetary prizes up to $1,000.

Students from 11 to 18 years old may submit work in the categories of art, creative writing, poetry and spoken word, film, interactive media and multimedia, or music and dance, accompanied by a reflection. The deadline is June 13.

17. EngineerGirl Annual Essay Contest

Each year, EngineerGirl sponsors an essay contest with topics centered on the impact of engineering on the world, and students can win up to $500 in prize money. This contest is a nice bridge between ELA and STEM and great for teachers interested in incorporating an interdisciplinary project into their curriculum. The new contest asks for pieces describing the life cycle of an everyday object. Check out these tips for integrating the content into your classroom .

Students submit their work electronically by February 1. Check out the full list of rules and requirements here .

18. NCTE Student Writing Awards

The National Council of Teachers of English offers several student writing awards, including Achievement Awards in Writing (for 10th- and 11th-grade students), Promising Young Writers (for 8th-grade students), and an award to recognize Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines.

Deadlines range from October 28 to February 15. Check out NCTE.org for more details.

19. See Us, Support Us Art Contest

Children of incarcerated parents can submit artwork, poetry, photos, videos, and more. Submissions are free and the website has a great collection of past winners.

Students can submit their entries via social media or email by October 25.

20. The Adroit Prizes for Poetry & Prose

The Adroit Journal, an education-minded nonprofit publication, awards annual prizes for poetry and prose to exceptional high school and college students. Adroit charges an entry fee but also provides a form for financial assistance.

21. National PTA Reflections Awards

The National PTA offers a variety of awards, including one for literature, in their annual Reflections Contest. Students of all ages can submit entries on the specified topic to their local PTA Reflections program. From there, winners move to the local area, state, and national levels. National-level awards include an $800 prize and a trip to the National PTA Convention.

This program requires submitting to PTAs who participate in the program. Check your school’s PTA for their deadlines.

22. World Historian Student Essay Competition

The World Historian Student Essay Competition is an international contest open to students enrolled in grades K–12 in public, private, and parochial schools, as well as those in home-study programs. The $500 prize is based on an essay that addresses one of this year’s two prompts.

Students can submit entries via email or regular mail before May 1.

23. NSHSS Creative Writing Scholarship

The National Society of High School Scholars awards three $2,000 scholarships for both poetry and fiction. They accept poetry, short stories, and graphic novel writing.

Apply online by October 31.

Whether you let your students blog, start a podcast or video channel, or enter student writing contests, giving them an authentic audience for their work is always a powerful classroom choice.

If you like this list of student writing contests and want more articles like it, subscribe to our newsletters to find out when they’re posted!

Plus, check out our favorite anchor charts for teaching writing..

Are you looking for student writing contests to share in your classroom? This list will give students plenty of opportunities.

Best Student Contests and Competitions for 2023

Best 2024 Competitions for Students in Grades K-12

Competitions in STEM, ELA and the arts, and more! Continue Reading

Mastering Writing Competitions: Insider Tips from a Two-Time Winner

06 Apr, 2024 | Blog Articles , English Language Articles , Get the Edge , Humanities Articles , Writing Articles

Man holding a notebook and pen, looking into the distance

V. Community and networking

Participating in writing competitions can allow students to connect with fellow writers, mentors and professionals in the literary community. Joining writing groups, workshops or clubs through competitions can provide you with opportunities to share ideas and receive support.

This not only provides the chance to learn from professionals, but can also help you to feel part of literary circles. Building relationships with experienced writers, editors and publishers fosters guidance and mentorship for you in your writing endeavours. These connections could also help you find and gain access to future opportunities.

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Thanks for signing up, 12 insider tips to ace a writing competition.

A pen and notebook lying flat on a dark background

1. Make a list of the requirements

This first one may sound obvious, but it’s easy to accidentally stray from the guidelines set by the competition. Some things to bear in mind include:

Minimum and/or maximum word count . This is very important as your entry could be disqualified if it fails to keep within this.
Form . Is it meant to be a poem, a short story, an essay, a script or something else?
Prompt material. A question, statement, title, quote or photograph, for example.
Suggested approaches . This might be a character perspective, line of argument, or particular image or theme.

By keeping a clear list of exactly what is asked of you, you can reference it as you work and ensure your writing meets the requirements. After all, you don’t want to finish your work only to realise that it needs to be partly or fully rewritten.

2. Plan out the timescale

While a competition may have a seemingly-distant deadline, you don’t want to fall into the trap of leaving it to the last minute and having to rush. Note down the deadline on your calendar or in your planner, then schedule in some time to work on your entry.

You might want to set a few personal goals based on how much needs to be done, and by when. For example, you could set a date for having completed a plan, and another date to have finished a first draft. Make sure you leave enough time to edit and proofread.

3. Seek inspiration

It’s best to give yourself some time to think about the different ways you could approach the topic/question/theme set by the writing competition. For example, you could consider any ideas you may have had in the past, such as storylines, poetic images, characters or arguments, and see if any of them can be adapted to fit the competition’s requirements.

Alternatively, you may need to seek out material you haven’t encountered before. This might involve reading books or news articles, visits to new or familiar places, or even something as simple as a walk. However, try not to put too much pressure on yourself, and go about your daily routine – it’s often while doing ordinary tasks that you’ll have a eureka moment.

4. Do your research

This is especially important for essay competitions, but applies to any kind of writing competition. For example, for both of my winning entries (a poem from the perspective of Queen Joanna I of Castile, and a short story inspired by a painting by Goya, a Spanish artist), I had to carefully research the historical context in which I was setting my narratives. This not only helped to inform what I was writing, but also provided great material to enrich my work and bring the stories and characters to life.

Sources might include books, websites, podcasts, articles, blogs, images and much more.

When essay-writing, backing up your ideas and arguments with evidence and research is essential to making your work convincing. When reading, it’s good to constantly ask yourself what you think about a particular line of thinking, whether you agree or disagree, or if you feel you could provide a more nuanced perspective. Including this in your essay will help make your work stand out to the judges.

Competitions often require referencing in your work, so make sure you use reliable sources and keep a note of where you’re finding each idea or piece of information. That way it’s easier for you to add any necessary footnotes, a list of sources or a bibliography to your entry.

Rows of books on shelves, with bust statues nearby

5. Collect and brainstorm ideas before structuring

Try not to worry too much about the structure of your entry at first, and start by collecting any ideas, themes, images and descriptions you come up with, and any information and arguments you’ve read about. Jotting all of this down in mind-maps, lists or posters for example (whichever works best for you), can help you visualise your work. This makes it easier to find the best way to structure your work later on.

6. Take some time to plan

While it might be tempting to dive straight into writing, and this can be helpful when you have the momentum to write a particular part of your entry, it’s still important to plan. This helps to ensure your work is coherent and each section leads smoothly into the next one.

For example, you may come up with a few stanzas of a poem or paragraphs of a story or essay before planning. However, it’s always good to take a step back and plan exactly where they’ll fit best within your piece, based on other content you want to include.

7. Play with form

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the form set by the competition. For example, you could research different types of poems, narrative types or ways to structure an essay. Sometimes competitions are more specific – for example, if it should be written in first or third person – but there’s always scope to find your personal approach.

Often, the best entries are those that creatively engage with the possibilities and constraints of the form they’re written in.

8. Experiment with imagery

For more descriptive pieces, it can be helpful to research literary devices and techniques.

You might want to choose certain motifs or literary images to recur throughout the piece, which can help to provide stylistic unity to your work. Exploring the possibilities of a particular set of images or concepts to be presented in different ways can help to develop your work and showcase your creativity and imagination.

For example, in my poem about Joanna ‘The Mad’ of Castile, I explored the weight of the charge of ‘madness’ and what it implied about illness, suffering, suppression and control.

Alternatively, using lots of different ways to describe the subject at hand can highlight your versatility and creative potential as a writer.

These tips can also be applied to essay writing, as particular case studies, anecdotes and imagery can help to anchor the focus of your work, highlighting your personal take on the subject.

9. Pay attention to tone

It’s important to bear in mind the tone you want to set for your piece. Will it be light-hearted and humorous, bitterly ironic, serious, dramatic or tragic (or something else entirely)? Think about which approach works best for the competition requirements, and try to be consistent with your tone.

If you want to change the tenor of the piece as it develops – starting off more light-hearted but ending with a serious note, for example – make sure you’re purposeful with the way the tone changes.

10. Don’t give up!

Everyone suffers from writer’s block sometimes, and it’s normal to get a bit stuck at some stage in the writing process. Try not to get disheartened, and instead take a break and come back to working a bit later. You might feel the need to seek out a new source of inspiration, or your brain may simply be tired and you may need a break to gather your thoughts.

11. Take breaks when you need them

You might get into the ‘zone’ and want to blitz your way through the essay at once, but often we need to take a few breaks to get the cognitive juices flowing and persevere through any bouts of writer’s block as mentioned above.

Exercising, listening to music, playing an instrument, reading for pleasure, and meeting up with friends are just some of the ways that you can take a healthy break. The most important thing is to pay attention to how you’re feeling and do what’s best for you.

12. Proofread, proofread and proofread again!

Once you’ve finished your first draft, take a break and come back to proofread and edit where necessary. Pay attention to spelling, punctuation and grammar, and potentially consider alternative ways of phrasing sentences or structuring your ideas.

Once you’ve gone through your work once or twice, it’s a good idea to ask for a second (and third) pair of eyes to check for typos and give some feedback. A competition may limit the input of the help of others such as teachers, but as long as you keep within the guidelines, asking for others’ responses is a good way to refine your work and get a feel for how others may respond to your writing. This way, you can ensure everything makes sense and is as effective as possible.

Writing competitions are an amazing opportunity for your personal and academic development, as a way of practising and improving your writing skills, encouraging your creativity and interest, and connecting you to the literary community.

I hope these tips will guide and encourage you with your writing competition applications. Just remember to have fun and let your creativity shine through!

Costas is currently studying a BA in History and Spanish at the University of Oxford, specialising mainly in medieval history and literature. His interests include reading widely, creative writing, and playing and listening to music.

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18 Writing Contests for High School Students

school notice for essay writing competition

By Eric Eng

If you’re a high school student passionate about writing, entering writing contests can open many doors. These contests do more than showcase your talent; they offer potential scholarships, publication opportunities, and recognition that can make you stand out in the college admissions process. Participating helps you sharpen your writing skills and shows college admissions officers your dedication, creativity, and ability to excel in your field.

Here’s a list of 19 writing contests tailored for high school students, giving you the opportunity to shine and strengthen your higher education applications.

1. American Foreign Service National High School Essay Contest

Location: Online
  Contest Dates: Accepting applications from October 2, 2023
Application Deadline: April 1, 2024, at 11:59 PM EDT
  Eligibility: Open to students in grades 9-12 attending a U.S. high school or equivalent. Eligible students include those in the District of Columbia , U.S. territories, and U.S. citizens attending high school overseas. Students whose parents are not in the Foreign Service can also participate if they meet the location criteria.

The American Foreign Service National High School Essay Contest offers a unique opportunity for high school students to engage in a critical analysis of international relations and U.S. foreign policy. Participants are tasked with writing an essay that demonstrates a clear understanding of the Foreign Service and its role in the global arena. The contest requires essays to be at least 1,000 words but not exceed 1,500 words. Submissions will be judged on analysis, research quality, and writing mechanics. Essays should follow the MLA Handbook guidelines and use a variety of sources, including academic journals, news articles, books, and government documents, ensuring at least three primary sources.

This contest distinguishes itself by emphasizing analytical skills, research quality, and writing style. It encourages participants to explore and understand the complex world of international diplomacy and foreign affairs. Winning this contest comes with prestigious awards, including a $2,500 cash prize, an all-expense-paid trip to the nation’s capital, and a voyage courtesy of Semester at Sea. The runner-up receives $1,250 and full tuition for a summer session of the National Student Leadership Conference . Participation in this contest not only offers significant rewards but also enhances your college application, demonstrating your ability to engage with complex topics and conduct thorough research. The skills developed through this contest, including critical thinking, effective communication, and a deep understanding of international relations, are highly beneficial for academic and career advancement in a wide range of fields.

2. Engineer Girl Essay Contest

Contest Dates: Topic and instructions were posted in September, with the contest running until February 1st.
Application Deadline: February 1, 2024, by 11:59 pm ET
Eligibility: Open globally to girls in grades 3-12 (ages 8-18).

The Engineer Girl Essay Contest is an annual event that encourages girls to explore the intersection of engineering and writing. For the 2024 contest, participants are asked to write about the lifecycle of an everyday object, showcasing their understanding of engineering concepts and their ability to communicate these ideas effectively. This exercise pushes contestants to think about how objects are made, used, and disposed of, and to consider the engineering processes involved in each stage of the object’s lifecycle. The contest, a standout among writing contests for high school students, fosters a deeper appreciation for the role of engineering in daily life and promotes critical thinking about sustainability and environmental impact.

A young woman using a laptop while writing on her table.

This contest stands out by empowering young girls to engage with engineering topics, a field where women are traditionally underrepresented. It provides a space for girls to express their creativity and understanding of engineering through writing, bridging the gap between technical subjects and the arts. Winning this contest can significantly enhance college applications, demonstrating the participant’s ability to apply scientific concepts in a practical and thoughtful manner. It also helps in developing research and analytical skills, which are essential for academic success in any field. By participating in the Engineer Girl Essay Contest, girls not only expand their knowledge of engineering but also gain confidence in their ability to succeed in STEM-related fields.

3. Columbia Scholastic Press Association (CSPA) Awards

Location: Online ( Columbia University)
Cost: Free for the Gold Circle Awards; Crown Awards included in Regular or Associate Membership fees
Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024 CSPA Awards have not been announced
Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024 CSPA Awards have not been announced
 Eligibility: CSPA membership required. Open to middle/junior high schools, high schools, and colleges/universities in the U.S., Canada, and international schools with American or Canadian accreditation. Specific eligibility varies between Crown and Gold Circle Awards.

The CSPA Awards, comprising the Crown Awards and the Gold Circle Awards, are prestigious honors celebrating excellence in student publications. The Crown Awards recognize outstanding student newspapers, magazines, yearbooks, and digital/broadcast media published during the academic year. Entries are judged on their excellence as shown by their design, photography, concept, coverage, and writing. The Gold Circle Awards are individual honors for student journalists contributing to their school’s publications. These awards span various categories, including writing, editing, design, photography, and multimedia, allowing students to showcase their talents in specific aspects of journalism and publication design.

What sets the CSPA Awards apart is their comprehensive recognition of both collective and individual achievements in scholastic journalism and media. These awards provide an opportunity for students and advisers to showcase their creativity, journalistic skills, and dedication to producing high-quality publications. Participating in the CSPA Awards is not only an honor but also a valuable learning experience. Students receive professional feedback, helping them improve their journalism and design skills. This recognition and experience are impressive additions to college applications, demonstrating the students’ commitment to excellence in journalism and media arts. For advisers, the awards acknowledge their impactful mentorship, enhancing their professional credentials. Overall, the CSPA Awards foster a culture of excellence in scholastic journalism, encouraging students and advisers to strive for the highest standards in their work.

4. Letters About Literature Contest

Location: Online
Contest Dates: Entries typically begin in November each year
Application Deadline: January 29, 2024
Eligibility: Students in grades 4-12 in the United States. Participants are required to read a book, poem, or speech and write a letter to the author (living or deceased) about how the work personally affected them.

The Letters About Literature Contest is a unique reading and writing competition that invites students in grades 4 through 12 to deeply engage with literature. Participants select a book, poem, or speech and write a letter to the author explaining how the text impacted them on a personal level. This exercise encourages students to reflect on their reading experiences and articulate their feelings and thoughts in a meaningful way. Letters are judged at state and national levels, providing opportunity for young readers and writers to gain recognition for their insights and expressive abilities.

What makes the Letters About Literature Contest stand out is its focus on the personal connection between reader and writer. Unlike typical writing contests that may emphasize creative or academic writing skills, this contest delves into the personal impact of literature, fostering a deeper appreciation for reading among participants. The contest’s format helps students develop empathy and reflective thinking, skills that are invaluable in both academic and personal growth. Winning state-level participants receive a $250 award, adding a tangible incentive to the contest. Participation in this contest can be a notable addition to college applications, showcasing a student’s engagement with literature and their ability to express complex thoughts and emotions in writing. It encourages a lifelong love for reading and writing, laying a strong foundation for future academic and professional endeavors in the humanities and beyond.

5. Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People

Location: Online (based in Japan)
Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024 International Essay Contest for Young People will be announced by mid-February 2024.
  Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024 International Essay Contest for Young People will be announced by mid-February 2024.
  Eligibility: Open globally to young people up to 25 years old, divided into two categories: children (up to 14 years old) and youth (15-25 years old)

The Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People is an annual global competition that invites young minds to explore themes of peace and sustainability. Each year, the contest focuses on a specific theme, encouraging participants to reflect and write about creating a better world. For instance, the theme for the 2023 contest was “Youth Creating a Peaceful Future.” This contest gives young people the opportunity to articulate their ideas and visions for a more harmonious and sustainable future. The winners receive a certificate of commendation from Japan’s Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, along with a special gift.

a young college student writing while on online class

This contest stands out for its global reach and focus on critical contemporary themes such as peace and sustainability. It encourages young writers to think deeply about global issues and their role in addressing them. Participation in this contest can be a significant addition to college applications, demonstrating a commitment to global issues and the ability to think critically and creatively about solutions. It offers young people a chance to contribute to important global dialogues and to be recognized on an international stage for their ideas. The contest not only fosters writing skills but also promotes global awareness and a sense of responsibility towards creating a peaceful, sustainable future. The experience and recognition gained from this contest can inspire and empower young individuals to continue their efforts to make positive changes in the world.

6. Apprentice Writer Contest

Location: Susquehanna University
 Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024 contest are currently unspecified
Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024 contest are currently unspecified
Eligibility: Open to high school students in grades 9 to 12

The Apprentice Writer contest, held at Susquehanna University and overseen by the Writer’s Institute, offers a stage for high school students to showcase their writing and artistic talents. This annual competition focuses on capturing the creativity and skill of young writers and illustrators, providing an opportunity for them to get their work published in an esteemed journal. The contest covers various genres and styles, allowing students to express themselves in diverse literary and artistic formats. Aspiring writers and artists in high school are encouraged to submit their best work, which is then evaluated by a panel of judges with professional expertise.

Close up of a woman writing in a notebook.

What sets The Apprentice Writer contest apart is its association with Susquehanna University and the Writer’s Institute, institutions renowned for their commitment to fostering literary talent. Being published in the annual journal of The Apprentice Writer not only serves as a significant accolade for young creators but also offers an early start in building a portfolio of published work. This recognition can be instrumental in college applications, highlighting a student’s dedication to and proficiency in writing and art. Furthermore, participation in this writing contest helps high school students refine their skills, receive valuable feedback from established professionals, and gain confidence in their creative abilities. The experience gained from this contest can be a stepping stone to further opportunities in writing and art, setting the foundation for a successful academic and professional journey in the creative fields.

7. NCTE Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines (REALM) Award

 Cost: $25 entry fee (waived for first-time submissions)
Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024   REALM Award have not been announced
Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024  REALM Award have not been announced
Eligibility: Open to all middle and secondary schools, colleges, and universities that are US accredited. Magazines submitted must have been published between September of the previous year and June of the entry year. Newspapers and yearbooks are not eligible.

The REALM program is designed to honor and acknowledge outstanding literary magazines created by students under the guidance of their teachers. It serves as a national platform for recognizing the artistry and skill involved in producing student literary magazines. The contest requires digital submissions of a school’s magazine, ensuring a broad range of participation. The evaluation process involves a point system, where magazines are judged and awarded based on their total points, falling into categories such as REALM First Class, Superior, Excellent, Distinguished, and Honorable Mention. This comprehensive judging system ensures a fair and thorough assessment of each submission.

Close up shot of young woman writing notes with classmates studying in background.

The REALM Award stands out for its emphasis on the creative and editorial skills of students in the realm of literary publication. Participation in this contest not only fosters a love for literature and arts among students but also cultivates skills in writing, editing, and magazine production. Receiving recognition through the REALM program can significantly enhance the profile of the school’s literary magazine, serving as a testament to the quality of the student’s work and the school’s commitment to supporting the arts. For students, such an accolade is a valuable addition to their academic portfolio, reflecting their creative abilities and dedication to literary arts. This recognition can be advantageous for college applications, demonstrating involvement in and contribution to significant extracurricular activities. The REALM Award, therefore, not only celebrates student achievement but also nurtures future writers, editors, and literary enthusiasts.

8. One Teen Story Contest

Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024  One Teen Story Contest have not been announced
Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024  One Teen Story Contest have not been announced
 Eligibility: Open to writers aged 13-19 worldwide, with a limit of one story submission per writer

The One Teen Story contest is an international writing competition specifically designed for young writers between the ages of 13 and 19. This contest provides a unique opportunity for teenagers to showcase their storytelling skills through short stories. Participants are encouraged to submit original, unpublished stories. The focus of the contest is on fiction that resonates with both teenage writers and readers, offering a chance for young authors to have their voices heard on a global stage. The winning stories are selected based on originality, narrative coherence, character development, and overall impact.

What sets the One Teen Story contest apart is its commitment to nurturing young literary talent. Winning stories are published in “One Teen Story,” a magazine that reaches over ten thousand readers, providing significant exposure for emerging young writers. Additionally, winners receive a prize of $500 and 25 copies of the magazine issue featuring their story. This opportunity not only rewards creativity but also introduces young writers to the publishing world. Working with a One Teen Story editor prior to publication is an invaluable learning experience, offering insights into the editorial process and professional writing standards. For college applications, this accolade is a powerful testament to a student’s writing abilities and dedication to their craft. Participation in this contest can ignite a passion for writing and storytelling, laying the groundwork for future literary pursuits and academic successes.

9. Polyphony Lit

Cost: Varies; free for the annual volume and some seasonal contests, others cost $5 (application fee)
Contest Dates: Vary depending on the contest; for example, the Polyphony Lit Winter Contest typically starts on January 1st, and the Fall Contest runs from September 1st to October 31st
Application Deadline: Varies; the Polyphony Lit Winter Contest is February 29th or until a maximum of 200 submissions is reached
Eligibility: Open to high school students globally, with specific writer qualifications varying by contest

Polyphony Lit offers a series of literary contests for high school students across the globe, focusing on poetry, fiction, and creative non-fiction. Each submission is meticulously read and evaluated by an international editorial team comprising over 150 high school students. The contest cycles include various seasonal competitions and an annual volume submission period. The contest allows young writers to showcase their literary talents and gain recognition in the international literary community.

a female student writing essay for college admission while listening to music

The Polyphony Lit contest is unique in its global reach and its editorial process, which involves high school students from around the world. This peer-review system not only ensures a fair and relatable evaluation process but also fosters a sense of community among young writers. Winners of the contest receive the prestigious Polyphony Lit Writing Award, publication in the annual volume, a full scholarship for Polyphony’s editor training course, and eligibility for the Claudia Ann Seaman Awards. These accolades provide substantial recognition and can significantly enhance college applications, demonstrating a commitment to and achievement in creative writing. Participation in the contest also offers invaluable experience in the world of literary publishing and editing, equipping young writers with skills that are beneficial for both academic and future career endeavors in writing and beyond.

10. Teen Ink

Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024  Teen Ink Writing Contest have not been announced
Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024  Teen Ink Writing Contest have not been announced
Eligibility: Open to students ages 13 to 19 attending middle or high school globally

The Teen Ink contest, recognized as one of the premier writing contests for high school students, encourages young writers and artists aged 13 to 19 to submit their best work across various creative categories. This online contest is designed to publish exceptional works by teens in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, art, photography, and reviews. It provides an opportunity for high school students from around the globe to share their creativity, thoughts, and perspectives with a wider audience. Each submission is a chance to contribute to the rich collage of Teen Ink’s magazine content, which is celebrated for its diversity and depth.

a man sitting on the floor with his a laptop and notebook on his legs

What sets Teen Ink apart is its broad scope and inclusive nature, offering a venue for a wide array of artistic and literary expressions. The contest celebrates the voices of young creators, offering them publication opportunities in a magazine that has already featured the works of over 55,000 teens. Winning or being published in Teen Ink can be a significant feather in the cap of any young creator, providing not just the thrill of seeing their work in print, but also the validation of their talents. Such achievements can bolster college applications, showcasing a student’s commitment to and aptitude for their chosen art or literary form. In addition, the collaborative and competitive aspects of Teen Ink contests promote growth, resilience, and a sense of community among participants, all of which are invaluable traits for personal and academic success.

11. The Emerson Prize

Location: Worldwide
Cost: Entry fee ranging from $70 to $150, based on the subscription type chosen.
Contest dates: Rolling admissions
Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; specific issues deadlines are February 1 (Summer), May 1 (Fall), August 1 (Winter), and November 1 (Spring)
Eligibility: High school students who have authored a history research paper.

The Emerson Prize is a distinguished annual award granted to high school students who have demonstrated exceptional historical scholarship through their research papers published in The Concord Review . As a celebration of scholarly excellence, it recognizes young historians who contribute original research and thoughtful analysis to the discourse of history. The essays cover a wide array of topics, showcasing the writers’ dedication to uncovering and presenting historical truths.

The Emerson Prize elevates the importance of historical study among high school students, spotlighting those who go above and beyond in their academic endeavors. Recipients of the prize not only receive national recognition but are also awarded $1,000, affirming the value of their scholarly contributions. This accolade can be a pivotal advantage for college admissions, underscoring a student’s capability for in-depth research and academic writing. It also signals to colleges the student’s readiness for the rigors of undergraduate study and potential for future scholarly work. Beyond the immediate recognition, the prize encourages a lifelong pursuit of historical understanding and critical thinking, fostering a foundation that benefits students in any field they choose to pursue.

12. NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing

Contest Dates: Accepting applications from August 29, 2023
Application Deadline: February 15, 2024
  Eligibility: 10th and 11th-grade students in the United States and Canada

The NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing is a distinguished program designed to recognize the writing talents of 10th and 11th-grade students and to encourage their growth as writers. With the contest prompt released on August 29, 2023, students are invited to brainstorm, draft, and refine their submissions until the February deadline. The submissions are evaluated on a variety of criteria including content, purpose, audience, tone, word choice, structure, development, and style. This comprehensive review process ensures a fair and merit-based assessment of each student’s writing.

A person writing with a pile of books beside them

What sets the NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing apart is its status as a school-based recognition program, underlining the educational community’s role in nurturing young writers. Students who earn the Certificate of Superior Writing/First Class distinction gain national recognition, with their names and states published on the NCTE website. This recognition can enhance a student’s academic portfolio, reflecting their dedication and skill in writing—an asset for college applications. The emphasis on varied elements of writing also prepares students for the demanding writing tasks they will face in higher education and beyond, fostering a skill set that is critical for academic success across disciplines.

13. Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest

Contest Dates: Specific submission dates for the 2023-2024 contest have not been mentioned
Application Deadline: October 31, 2023
Eligibility: 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students in public, private, parochial schools, home-schooled, and dependents of U.S. military or civilian personnel in overseas schools

The Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest is a youth essay competition that inspires middle school students to reflect on American history and their own experiences to express their ideas based on a patriotic theme. Participants are tasked with writing a 300 to 400-word essay, typed in English with black ink, to articulate their views under the guidance of the annual theme set by the VFW Commander-in-Chief. The essays must adhere to strict guidelines, including word count and anonymity, to ensure a level playing field. Contestants must also submit three typed copies of their essay along with the official entry form.

The Patriot’s Pen Essay Contest distinguishes itself with its patriotic emphasis, motivating students to engage critically with their national heritage and the principles of American society. It offers significant rewards, including a $5,000 national first-place prize, and a minimum of $500 for each first-place state winner, fostering academic motivation and recognition. Participation in this contest can be an impressive addition to educational credentials, signalling a student’s ability to think critically and write clearly about complex themes. For many young students, the contest provides their first experience with a national competition, laying a foundation for future academic pursuits and instilling a sense of national pride and responsibility.

14. Profile in Courage Essay Contest

Contest Dates: Submissions open on September 1, 2023
Application Deadline: January 12, 2024
Eligibility: U.S. high school students in grades 9-12 attending public, private, parochial, or home schools; U.S. students under 20 in high school correspondence/GED programs; U.S. citizens attending schools overseas.

The Profile in Courage Essay Contest challenges high school students to write an essay on a U.S. elected official who demonstrated political courage past 1917, the year of John F. Kennedy’s birth. The essay must explore an act of bold leadership on a pressing issue at any level of government — local, state, national, or international. Students are asked to provide an in-depth analysis of their chosen act of political courage, discussing the implications and the impact of the official’s actions.

Standing out for its focus on political courage and historical analysis, the Profile in Courage Essay Contest provides an enriching educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. It encourages students to delve into the complexities of governance and ethics, fostering critical thinking and an appreciation for civic responsibility. The contest offers substantial awards, with the first-place winner receiving $10,000, and additional significant prizes for runners-up and finalists. The recognition from such a prestigious writing contest can be a remarkable asset for college applications, highlighting high school students’ research skills and ability to engage with historical and contemporary political issues. Winners also have the honor of attending the Profile in Courage Award ceremony, providing a unique opportunity to connect with leaders and be part of a community that values courage and integrity in public service.

15. Stone Soup Contests

Contest Dates: Guidelines for the 2024  Stone Soup Contests have not been announced
Application Deadline: Guidelines for the 2024  Stone Soup Contests have not been announced
Eligibility: Varies by contest; the Annual Book Contest 2022 was open to individuals aged 14 or under, and there are specific contests for upcoming college students.

Stone Soup, the esteemed literary magazine for young writers and artists, holds various contests throughout the year, such as the Annual Book Contest and writing contests for college-bound students. These competitions seek to discover and celebrate the talents of young creators in genres, including short stories, poetry, personal essays, and artwork. Each contest comes with its own theme and guidelines, offering young creators multiple opportunities to showcase their skills and creativity.

a female student studying outside with her laptop on her lap

What distinguishes the Stone Soup contests is their commitment to fostering the artistic and literary development of young people. The contests provide a respected outlet for publication, which can be a significant milestone in a young creator’s life. Having work published in Stone Soup can be a strong point of interest in college applications, indicating a student’s dedication to their craft and ability to achieve at a competitive level. Beyond the honor of publication, the contests offer experience with the submission and editorial process, which is valuable for any budding writer or artist. Participation also encourages discipline and creativity, which are important skills for academic success and personal growth.

16. We the Students Essay Contest

Contest Dates: Submissions typically open in the fall
Application Deadline: February 14, 2024
Eligibility: Students in grades 8-12 attending public, private, religious, or charter schools, enrolled in a GED or correspondence school program, or participating in a home school program in the United States and its territories

The “We the Students Essay Contest” is a prestigious annual competition hosted by the Bill of Rights Institute, designed to engage U.S. students in grades 8 through 12 in thoughtful reflections on the principles of the Constitution. Participants are tasked with crafting compelling essays on topics related to civic understanding and the role of the Constitution in the contemporary United States. The contest provides the opportunity for students to articulate their insights and demonstrate their understanding of the importance of the Bill of Rights and the founding principles of American governance.

A person wearing a red shirt is writing on a notebook.

The contest is distinguished by its emphasis on civic education and the encouragement of students to critically analyze and discuss key constitutional concepts. Winning this contest comes with substantial awards, with the first-place winner receiving $7,500 and a scholarship to attend the Constitutional Academy in Washington, D.C. Such an achievement can be instrumental in college applications, highlighting students’ engagement with complex historical and governmental topics and their ability to express informed opinions. Participation in the contest not only bolsters students’ credentials but also enriches their understanding of American democracy, a knowledge base that is valuable in academic pursuits and as active citizens.

17. American Scholastic Press Assn (ASPA) Yearbook and Newspaper Contest

Cost: $100 for yearbooks, $60 for newspapers
Contest Dates: Submissions for 2024 Yearbooks and Magazines accepted in Summer and Fall 2024
Application Deadline: The 2024 deadline has not  been announced
Eligibility: Open to schools in the United States and its territories that publish yearbooks or newspapers

The ASPA Yearbook and Newspaper Contest is an annual event dedicated to celebrating and recognizing excellence in scholastic publishing. Schools across the United States and its territories are invited to submit their yearbooks and newspapers for critique and assessment. The contest aims to evaluate the quality of student journalism and design, offering categories that cover a broad spectrum of school publication activities. It gives students an opportunity to showcase their journalistic talents, editorial skills, and creativity in both print and digital formats.

A woman with a laptop in front is writing on a notebook.

The ASPA contest stands out for its comprehensive evaluation process, which offers valuable feedback sensitive to school budgetary concerns. This feedback helps schools improve their publications and encourages high standards in scholastic journalism. The recognition from winning an ASPA award can significantly enhance the profile of a school’s publication team, demonstrating a commitment to excellence in journalism and publication design. For high school students, participating in this writing contest can be instrumental in college applications, as it showcases their involvement in significant extracurricular activities and their ability to collaborate on complex projects. The skills developed through participation—writing, editing, design, and teamwork—are invaluable for academic and professional success. Additionally, the contest fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment among student journalists and can inspire them to pursue careers in journalism, media, and related fields.

18. Quill and Scroll Yearbook Excellence Contests

Location: United States and its territories
Cost: Each entry is $7
Contest dates: Typically opens for submissions in the fall (specific dates for the 2024 contest not mentioned)
Eligibility: Open to schools in the United States and its territories that publish yearbooks

The Quill and Scroll Yearbook Excellence Contests are designed to honor and celebrate superior yearbook design and coverage by schools across the United States and its territories. This contest provides a platform for students and educators to showcase their yearbook programs, focusing on various aspects of yearbook production, such as design, photography, and editorial content. Participation in these contests offers an opportunity for schools to have their yearbook evaluated against high standards, encouraging excellence in scholastic journalism and publication design.

What sets the Quill and Scroll Yearbook Excellence Contests apart is their focus on both the overall yearbook program and individual achievements within yearbook production. This dual approach allows for recognition of comprehensive team efforts as well as individual talent in various aspects of yearbook creation. Winning these contests or receiving critiques can significantly benefit a school’s yearbook program, offering insights for improvement and recognition for excellence. Participating in writing contests for high school students can be particularly advantageous for those interested in careers in journalism, design, or related fields, as it showcases their practical experience and achievements. Participation in the contests can also enhance college applications, demonstrating involvement in significant extracurricular activities and the ability to work collaboratively on complex projects. Furthermore, these contests foster a sense of pride and accomplishment in students, motivating them to continue striving for excellence in their creative and journalistic endeavors.

In conclusion, these 18 writing contests provide high school students with a remarkable opportunity to cultivate their writing skills, gain recognition, and potentially earn scholarships and other rewards. Participating in these contests not only prepares students for the challenges of college-level writing but also adds significant value to their college applications, showcasing their talents and commitment to their craft. Whether aspiring to a career in journalism, creative writing, or any other field, these contests are a stepping stone toward achieving academic and professional goals.

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Narrative High School Writing Contest

Our tenth Annual High School Contest will open for submissions in January 2025. We'll announce our guest judge and next year's prompt in the autumn of 2024, so be sure check back then.

Welcome to the High School Writing Contest —an invitation to be discovered and to have your voice shared with the world!

This year we invited students to use the prompt MY NOTE TO THE WORLD as a springboard to craft a letter (essay) or story of no more than 600 words, or a poem of 10 to 50 lines, to depict a theme or problem and propose some kind of solution. We invited students to imagine they were onstage and the world was listening: what challenge did they feel compelled to address creatively and in their own unique voice?

Our sincere thanks to all the students who sent in their stories, letters, and poems and to all the teachers who submitted on their students’ behalf!

Here’s a short video featuring recent contest winners, along with guest judge Jericho Brown and Narrative editor Carol Edgarian, as they share their thoughts on inspiration and writing.

The Ninth Annual High School Contest: My Note to the World

The Eighth Annual High School Contest: True or False?

The Seventh Annual High School Contest: Blind Spots

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The Third Annual High School Contest: When Everything Changed

The Second Annual High School Contest: Dear America

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The 17 Best Writing Contests for High School Students

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If you're a writer—fiction, non-fiction, or fanfiction—you can put those skills to work for you. There are tons of writing contests for high school students, which can award everything from medals to cash prizes to scholarships if you win .

Not only will a little extra money, whether cash or scholarships, help you when it comes time to pay for college, but the prestige of a respected reward is also a great thing to include on your college application.

Read on to learn more about what writing contests for high school students there are, how to apply, and what you could win !

Writing Contests With Multiple Categories

Some high school contests accept entries in a variety of formats, including the standard fiction and non-fiction, but also things like screenwriting or visual art. Check out these contests with multiple categories:

Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

Award Amount: $1,000 to $12,500 scholarships
Deadline: Varies between December and January, depending on your region
Fee: $10 for single entry, $30 for portfolio

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards celebrate art by students in grades seven through twelve (age 13 or older) on a regional and national scale. These awards have a huge number of categories and styles, including cash prizes or scholarships for some distinguished award winners . Categories include science-fiction and fantasy writing, humor, critical essays, and dramatic scripts, among others.

Deadlines vary by region (but are mostly in December and January), so use Scholastic's Affiliate Partner search to find out when projects are due for your area.

Scholastic partners with other organizations to provide prizes to winners, so what you can win depends on what you enter and what competition level you reach. Gold medal portfolio winners can earn a $12,500 scholarship, and silver medal winners with distinction can earn a $2,000 scholarship , as well as many other options in different categories.

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards are open to private, public, or home-schooled students attending school in the US, Canada, or American schools in other countries. Students must be in grades seven through twelve to participate. Eligibility varies between regions, so consult Scholastic's Affiliate Partner search tool to figure out what applies to you .

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards have a $10 entry fee for individual submissions and $30 for portfolio submissions, which may be waived for students in need . These fees may vary depending on location, so be sure to check your local guidelines .

Ocean Awareness Contest

Award Amount: Scholarships up to $1,500
Deadline: June 13, 2023 (submissions open in September)

The Ocean Awareness Contest asks students to consider the future of a coastal or marine species that is under threat from climate change. Submissions are accepted in a variety of art forms, but all must consider the way that climate change impacts ocean life .

Submissions for all categories, including art, creative writing, film, interactive and multimedia, music and dance, and poetry and spoken word are due in June, although the exact date varies slightly each year.

Winners may receive prizes of up to a $1,500 scholarship , depending on which division they fall into and what prize they win.

The contest is open to all international and US students between the ages of 11 and 18.

River of Words

Award: Publication in the River of Words anthology
Deadline: January 31, 2023

The River of Words contest asks students to consider watersheds—an area that drains into the same body of water—and how they connect with their local community. Students can explore this concept in art or poetry, with winners being published in the annual River of Words anthology .

Entries in all categories must be submitted by January 31, 2023.

The River of Words contest is primarily for recognition and publication, as the website doesn't list any prize money . The contest includes specific awards for certain forms, such as poetry, some of which may have additional prizes .

The contest is open to International and US students from kindergarten to grade 12 (ages 5 through 19). Students who have graduated from high school but are not yet in college are also eligible.

Adroit Prizes

Award Amount: $200 cash award
Deadline: Typically April of each year

Sponsored by the Adroit Journal, the Adroit Prizes reward high school students and undergraduate students for producing exemplary fiction and poetry. Students may submit up to six poems or three works of prose (totaling 3,500 words) for consideration. Submissions typically open in spring .

Winners receive $200 and (along with runners-up) have their works published in the Adroit Journal . Finalists and runners-up receive a copy of their judge's latest published work.

The contest is open to secondary and undergraduate students, including international students and those who have graduated early . The Adroit Prizes has a non-refundable fee of $15, which can be waived.

YoungArts Competition

Award Amount: Up to $10,000 cash awards
Deadline: October 15, 2022; application for 2024 opens June 2023

Open to students in a variety of disciplines, including visual arts, writing, and music, the YoungArts competition asks students to submit a portfolio of work. Additional requirements may apply depending on what artistic discipline you're in .

Winners can receive up to $10,000 in cash as well as professional development help, mentorship, and other educational rewards.

Applicants must be 15- to 18-year-old US citizens or permanent residents (including green card holders) or in grades 10 through 12 at the time of submission . There is a $35 submission fee, which can be waived.

Fiction Writing Contests for High School Students

Many contests with multiple categories accept fiction submissions, so also check out the above contests if you're looking for places to submit original prose.

EngineerGirl Writing Contest

Award Amount: $100 - $500 cash prize
Deadline: February 1, 2023

This year's EngineerGirl Writing Contest asks students (though the name of the organization is "EngineerGirl," students of any gender may participate) to submit a piece of writing that shows how female and/or non-white engineers have contributed to or can enhance engineering’s great achievements. Word counts vary depending on grade level.

At every grade level, first-place winners will receive $500, second-place winners will receive $250, and third-place winners will receive $100 . Winning entries and honorable mentions will also be published on the EngineerGirl website.

Students of any gender from third to 12th grade may submit to this contest. Home-schooled and international students are also eligible.

Nonfiction Contests for High School Students

Like fiction, non-fiction is often also accepted in contests with multiple categories. However, there are quite a few contests accepting only non-fiction essays as well.

The American Foreign Services Association Essay Contest

Award Amount: $1,250 to $2,500
Deadline: April 3, 2023

The American Foreign Services Association sponsors a high school essay contest tasking students with selecting a country or region in which the United States Foreign Service has been involved at any point since 1924 and describe, in 1,500 words or less, how the Foreign Service was successful or unsuccessful in advancing American foreign policy goals in this country/region and propose ways in which it might continue to improve those goals in the coming years .

One winner will receive $2,500 as well as a Washington D.C. trip and a scholarship to attend Semester at Sea . One runner-up receives $1,250 and a scholarship to attend the International Diplomacy Program of the National Student Leadership Conference.

Entries must be from US students in grade nine through 12, including students in the District of Columbia, US territories, or US citizens attending school abroad, including home-schooled students.

John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Contest

Award Amount: $100 - $10,000
Deadline: January 13, 2023

The John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage contest tasks students with writing an essay between 700 and 1,000 words on an act of political courage by a US elected official serving during or after 1917 , inspired by John F. Kennedy's Profiles in Courage . Each essay should cover the act itself as well as any obstacles or risks the subject faced in achieving their act of courage. Essays must not cover figures previously covered in the contest, and should also not cover John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy, or Edward M. Kennedy.

One first-place winner will receive $10,000, one second-place winner will receive $3,000, five finalists will receive $1,000 each, and eight semi-finalists will win $100 each.

The contest is open to students in grades nine through 12 who are residents of the United States attending public, private, parochial, or home schools . Students under the age of 20 in correspondence high school programs or GED programs, as well as students in US territories, Washington D.C., and students studying abroad, are also eligible.

SPJ/JEA High School Essay Contest

Award Amount: $300 - $1,000 scholarships
Deadline: February 19, 2023 (submissions open in November)

The SPJ/JEA high school essay contest , organized by the Society of Professional Journalists and the Journalism Education Association, asks students to analyze the importance of independent media to our lives (as of now, the official essay topic for spring 2023 is TBD) . Essays should be from 300 to 500 words.

A $1,000 scholarship is given to a first-place winner, $500 to second-place, and $300 to third-place.

The contest is open to public, private, and home-schooled students of the United States in grades 9-12 .

Playwriting Contests for High School Students

For those who love the stage, playwriting contests are a great option. An original play can earn you great rewards thanks to any of these contests!

VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competition

Award: Participation in professional development activities at the Kennedy Center
Deadline: January 4, 2023 (Application opens in October)

The VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competition asks students with disabilities to submit a ten-minute script exploring their personal experiences, including the disability experience . Scripts may be realistic, fictional, or abstract, and may include plays, screenplays, or musical theater.

All entries are due in January. Scripts may be collaborative or written by individuals, but must include at least one person with a disability as part of the group .

One winner or group of winners will be selected as participants in the Kennedy Center American College Theater Festival. Winners will have access to professional assistance in developing their script as well as workshops and networking opportunities.

This contest is open to US and international students in ages 14 to 18 . Groups of up to five members may collaborate on an essay, but at least one of those students must have a disability.

Worldwide Plays Festival Competition

Award: Professional production in New York
Deadline: March (official 2023 deadline TBD)

In the Worldwide Plays Festival Competition , students from around the world can submit an eight-minute script for a play set in a part of a neighborhood —specifically, at a convenience store, outside a character's front door, or at a place where people convene. Each play must have roles for three actors, should not have a narrator who isn't also a character, and should not contain set changes.

Entries are due in February. Winners will have their play produced by professionals at an off-Broadway New York theater . Scholarships are also available for winners.

Any student, including US and international, in first through 12th grade may submit work for consideration.

Award Amount: $50 - $200 cash prize
Deadline: 2023 deadline TBD (application opens January 2023)

Students may submit a one-act, non-musical play of at least ten pages to YouthPLAYS for consideration . Plays should be appropriate for high school audiences and contain at least two characters, with one or more of those characters being youths in age-appropriate roles. Large casts with multiple female roles are encouraged.

One winner will receive $250, have their play published by YouthPLAYS, and receive a copy of Great Dialog , a program for writing dialog. One runner up will receive $100 and a copy of Great Dialog.

Students must be under the age of 19, and plays must be the work of a single author.

The Lewis Center Ten-Minute Play Contest

Deadline: Spring of each year

Students in grade 11 may submit a ten-minute play for consideration for the Lewis Center Ten-Minute Play Contest . Plays should be 10 pages long, equivalent to 10 minutes.

One first-prize winner will receive $500, one second-prize winner will receive $250, and one third-prize will receive $100.

All entries must be from students in the 11th grade .

Poetry Writing Contests for High School Students

For those who prefer a little free verse or the constraints of a haiku, there are plenty of poetry-specific contests, too.

Creative Communications Poetry Contest

Award Amount: $25
Deadline: December

Students in ninth grade or below may submit any poem of 21 lines or less (not counting spaces between stanzas) for consideration in the Creative Communications Poetry Contest .

Students may win $25, a free book, and school supplies for their teacher .

Public, private, or home-schooled US students (including those in detention centers) in kindergarten through ninth grade may enter.

Leonard L. Milberg '53 High School Poetry Prize

Award Amount: $500-$1500
Deadline: November

Students in 11th grade may submit up to three poems for consideration in the Leonard L. Milberg '53 High School Poetry Prize . Submissions are due in November .

One first-prize winner will receive $1500, one second-prize winner will receive $750, and a third-prize winner will receive $500. Poems may be published on arts.princeton.edu. All entrants must be in the 11th grade.

Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest

Award Amount: $500 - $5,000 renewable scholarship, $350 cash prize
Deadline: October 31, 2022

Women poets who are sophomores or juniors in high school may submit two poems for consideration for the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest .

One first-place winner will receive a $350 cash prize, publication in and ten copies of Cargoes , Hollins' student magazine, as well as a renewable scholarship of up to $5,000 for Hollins and free tuition and housing for the Hollinsummer creative writing program. One second-place winner will receive publication in and two copies of Cargoes, a renewable scholarship to Hollins of up to $1,000, and a $500 scholarship to attend Hollinsummer.

Applicants must be female students in their sophomore or junior year of high school .

What's Next?

If you're looking for more money opportunities for college , there are plenty of scholarships out there— including some pretty weird ones .

For those who've been buffing up their test scores , there are tons of scholarships , some in the thousands of dollars.

If you're tired of writing essays and applying for scholarships, consider some of these colleges that offer complete financial aid packages .

Want to build the best possible college application? We can help. PrepScholar Admissions combines world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've guided thousands of students to get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. We know what kinds of students colleges want to admit and are driven to get you admitted to your dream schools. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in:

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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23 Writing Competitions for High School Students

What’s covered:, why should you enter a writing competition, writing competitions for high school students, how do writing competitions affect my admissions chances.

Do you dream of writing the next great American novel? Are you passionate about poetry? Do you aspire to become a screenwriter? No matter what genre of writing you’re interested in—whether it’s fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or something else entirely—there’s a writing competition focused on it.

Writing competitions provide great motivation to put pen to paper (or finger to key). Moreover, they’re an excellent step toward getting published, and can ultimately start you on the path to becoming a professional writer.

One of the best ways to improve your writing is simply to write—and competitions provide an excellent impetus to do so. Writing competitions also serve as an introduction to what life is like for many writers; participants entering writing competitions will receive a prompt or must think of an original idea, compose a piece of work, and submit it for review.

Another benefit of entering a writing competition for high schoolers is that many offer cash awards and scholarships, which can be used to help with the costs of college.

Additionally, many writing competitions are run by colleges and universities, so submitting them is a great way to introduce faculty to yourself and your work. If you win an award—especially a prestigious award—it can significantly improve your odds of college acceptance.

1. The Adroit Prizes for Poetry and Prose

Type: Poetry and Prose

Submission Fee: $15

Prize: $200

Deadline: May 1, 2023

Eligibility:

All secondary and undergraduate students

Guidelines:

Each student may send up to five total submissions across the genres of poetry and prose
Each poetry submission may include up to six poems (maximum of ten pages single-spaced). Each prose submission may include up to three works of fiction or creative nonfiction (combined word limit of 3,500 words; excerpts are acceptable).

Adroit Prizes are awarded to emerging high school and college writers in two categories: poetry and prose. Winning pieces are considered for publication in the Adroit Journal and winners receive an award of $200. The 2023 judges are Natalie Diaz and Ocean Vuong.

2. Ten-Minute Play Contest

Type: Plays

Submission Fee: N/A

Deadline: Passed, but the contest will reopen in 2024

Eligibility: Students in the eleventh grade in the U.S. (or international equivalent of the eleventh grade)

Guidelines: Applicants may submit only one play (10 pages maximum)

The Ten-Minute Play Contest is put on by Princeton University’s Lewis Center of the Arts. Applicants are allowed to submit one play that is no longer than 10 pages. Their submissions are judged by members of Princeton University’s Theater Program faculty.

3. Ayn Rand Anthem and The Fountainhead Essay Contests

Type: Essays

Anthem: $2,000
The Fountainhead : $5,000
Anthem: Grades 8-12
The Fountainhead : Grades 11-12
Anthem: Essays must be written in English only and between 600 and 1,200 words in length, double-spaced
The Fountainhead: Essays must be written in English only and between 800 and 1,600 words in length, double-spaced

In this essay competition, students pick one of three prompts about a topic related to Ayn Rand’s books and write an essay that goes through three stages of grading. Students are graded on their clarity, organization, understanding, and ability to stay “on topic.”

4. Leonard L. Milberg ’53 High School Poetry Prize

Type: Poetry

Prize: $500-$1,500

Eligibility: Students must be in the 11th grade in the U.S. or abroad

Guidelines: Applicants may submit up to 3 poems

The Leonard L. Milberg ’53 High School Poetry Prize is another contest run by Princeton University’s Lewis Center of the Arts. Winners are chosen by judges who are both poets and members of Princeton University’s creative writing faculty. Three monetary awards are available.

5. World Historian Student Essay Competition

Prize: $500

Eligibility: Students enrolled in grades K–12 in public, private, and parochial schools, and those in home-study programs

Guidelines: Essays should be approximately 1,000 words

Winners of this competition receive a $500 prize along with a free yearlong membership to the World History Association . To apply, you must submit an approximately 1,000-word essay responding to the following prompt:

Submit an essay that addresses the following topic and discusses how it relates to you personally and to World History: Your view of a family story related to a historical event or your personal family cultural background, or an issue of personal relevance or specific regional history/knowledge.

6. Jane Austen Society of North America Essay Contest

Prize: $250-$1,000

Deadline: June 1, 2023

Eligibility: Open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students

Must be submitted by the student through the official Essay Contest Submission website
Entries may include a statement about the student’s mentor; however, a mentor statement is not required
The essay must be 6-8 pages in length, not including the Works Cited page
The essay must use MLA documentation, including a Works Cited page and parenthetical citations in the body of the text. Use endnotes only for substantive notes. Source material that is directly quoted, paraphrased, or summarized must be cited. Quotations from the Jane Austen work under discussion should be cited as well.

The Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) Essay Contest is an annual writing competition aimed at fostering an appreciation for its namesake’s work. The contest is broken down into three divisions—high school, college/university, and graduate school.

First-place winners are awarded a $1,000 prize along with free registration and lodging for two nights at JASNA’s Annual General Meeting—smaller monetary awards are also given to second- and third-place essayists.

This year’s essay topic:

In Pride and Prejudice and Jane Austen’s other novels, we see proposals and marriages that are motivated by love, as well as those that are better described as arranged marriages or marriages of convenience. Many cultures today also expect arranged marriages (not the same as forced). In your essay, compare and discuss the different types of marriages or courtships found in the novels, whether those relationships are new or longstanding.

7. Bennington College Young Writers Awards

Type: Poetry, Fiction, and Nonfiction

Deadline: November 1, 2023

Eligibility: Students in grades 9-12

Poetry: A group of three poems
Fiction: A short story (1,500 words or fewer) or one-act play (run no more than 30 minutes of playing time)
Nonfiction: A personal or academic essay (1,500 words or fewer)

Bennington College has a strong history of developing writers—it’s produced twelve Pulitzer Prize winners, three U.S. poet laureates, and countless New York Times bestsellers—and the Bennington College Young Writers Awards celebrate this legacy.

In addition to offering cash awards to winners and finalists in all three categories, winners and finalists who apply and are accepted to Bennington College are also eligible for substantial scholarships.

8. Rachel Carson Intergenerational Sense of Wonder/Sense of the Wild Contest

Type: Poetry and Essays

Deadline: November 16, 2023

You are required to have a team of 2 or more people
The team must be intergenerational

Guidelines: Maximum length of 500 words (approximately 2 pages)

This unique writing competition requires that entries must be submitted by a team of two people from different generations—for example, a high school student and a teacher. Contestants can compete in a number of categories and themes, each with unique submission requirements.

9. NSHSS Creative Writing Scholarship

Type: Fiction and Poetry

Prize: $2,000

Deadline: October 2, 2023

Eligibility: Rising high school students graduating in 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, and recently graduated 2023 seniors

Poetry: Students may submit their original poetry in any style, from formal verse to free verse to experimental. The poem should be formatted as you wish it to appear in the publication.
Fiction: Students may submit a piece of short fiction, which must be no more than 5,000 words and should not be single-spaced. The entry may be any genre of the student’s choice, including graphic novel or story.
Must submit educator recommendation, academic resume, and current transcript with application

Winning works for this competition are chosen based on their creativity, technique, expression, and originality. Three winners are chosen in each category and each winner receives a $2,000 prize.

10. John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Contest

Prize: $100-$10,000

Eligibility: The contest is open to United States high school students in grades 9-12, U.S. students under the age of twenty enrolled in a high school correspondence/GED program, and U.S. citizens attending schools overseas.

Essays can be no more than 1,000 words but must be a minimum of 700 words. Citations and bibliography are not included in the word count.
Essays must have a minimum of five sources.

The prestigious John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Contest is one of the most recognizable and prestigious writing competitions for high schoolers in the nation. Essays for the contest are required to describe an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917. The first-place winner of the John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Contest takes home a $10,000 award and second place receives a $3,000 prize.

11. YoungArts National Writing Competition

Deadline: Opens June 2023

Eligibility: 15- to 18-year-old visual, literary, or performing artist based in the United States

Guidelines: To be released

YoungArts supports talented young artists between the ages of 15 and 18 (or grades 10-12) in 10 disciplines, including writing. Applicants can submit entries in six genres—creative nonfiction, novel, play or script, poetry, short story, and spoken word.

12. SPJ/JEA High School Essay Contest

Submission Fee: $5

Prize: $300-$1,000

Eligibility: All students enrolled in grades 9-12 in U.S. public, private and home schools within the United States

The essay should be 300-500 words
Entries may be typed or handwritten but must be double-spaced

This high school writing contest is presented by the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and the Journalism Education Association (JEA) to increase awareness of the importance of independent media.

Last year’s prompt was:

While consumers are drawn toward tweets and sound bites, how can journalists tell more of the story without losing readers’ interest?

13. VSA Playwright Discovery Program Competitions

Eligibility: High school students with disabilities

10-minute script
Entries may be the work of an individual student or a collaboration between two students that includes at least one student with a disability

This writing competition, presented by the Kennedy Center, is open to students ages 15-18 (or enrolled in high school) with disabilities. Writers may submit a “ten-minute” script in any genre, including plays, musicals, multimedia, video, film, TV, and podcasts.

Entries can be the work of an individual or the product of collaboration—provided that at least one of the collaborators has a disability. Multiple winners are chosen and given the chance to work with industry professionals, attend Kennedy Center professional development activities, and participate in networking opportunities.

14. Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest

Prize: $350

Eligibility: Women who are sophomores or juniors in high school or preparatory school

Guidelines: No more than two poems by any one student may be submitted

For almost six decades, the Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest has provided recognition, scholarships, and awards to the best female high school sophomore and junior poets. Submissions are reviewed by faculty members of Hollins University’s creative writing program and students enrolled in its M.F.A. in creative writing.

The first-place winner receives a $350 cash prize, a renewable $5,000 scholarship to Hollins University if they choose to enroll there, as well as free tuition and housing at the university’s Hollinsummer creative writing program. Their winning work is also published in Cargoes , the university’s student literary magazine.

15. Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

Type: Various

Submission Fee: $10 for individual entry, $30 for portfolio (can use Fee Waiver Form)

Prize: Varies

Deadline: Opens in September

Eligibility: Teens in grades 7–12 (ages 13 and up)

Guidelines: Varies by category

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards is the nation’s longest-running, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens. They offer 28 submission categories, including writing, critical essay, dramatic scripts, flash fiction, journalism, humor, novel writing, personal essay and memoir, poetry, science fiction and fantasy, and short story.

Works are judged by famous jurors who look for works that show originality, skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision. Students can earn a variety of scholarships through success in these competitions.

Works that celebrate individual differences or personal grief, loss, and bereavement are eligible for $1,000 scholarships. High school seniors submitting winning portfolios of six works are eligible for up to $12,500 in scholarships.

16. Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest

Type: Creative Writing and Poetry

Prize: $100-$1,500

Deadline: June 13, 2023

Students ages 11-18 from around the world
Students can participate as an individual or as a club, class, or group of any size
All students must provide the contact information for an Adult Sponsor (teacher, parent, mentor, etc.)
Creative Writing: no more than 5 pages (approximately 1,250 words)
Poetry: no more than 2 pages
A written reflection is required to accompany your submission, regardless of category. It is like the introduction to a book or an artist’s statement in a museum.

The 12th annual Ocean Awareness Contest is a platform for young people to learn about environmental issues through art-making and creative communication, explore their relationship to a changing world, and become advocates for positive change. Students can participate in six different categories, including poetry and spoken word, and creative writing.

This year’s prompt centers around climate issues:

Research and choose an inspirational scientist, activist, artist, educator, or other hero who is working to solve climate change issues. Create a piece of art, writing, or media that highlights their efforts, organizations, and/or positive impacts. We are familiar with the amazing work of environmental giants like Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough. We challenge you to introduce the Bow Seat community to a Climate Hero whose work we may not know about yet – but should.

17. John Locke Global Essay Competition

Submission Fee: N/A (unless late entry)

Prize: $2,000-$10,000 toward attending any John Locke Institute program

Deadline: June 30, 2023 (must register by May 31, 2023)

Eligibility: Candidates must be no older than 18 years old on June 30, 2023 (Candidates for the Junior Prize must be no older than 14 on the same date)

Guidelines: Each essay must address only one of the questions in your chosen subject category, and must not exceed 2,000 words (not counting diagrams, tables of data, footnotes, bibliography, or authorship declaration)

Students competing in this competition have the opportunity to write an essay in one of seven categories—philosophy, politics, economics, history, psychology, theology, and law. Each category has three prompts, from which students choose and respond to one.

Essays are judged on knowledge and understanding of the relevant material, the competent use of evidence, quality of argumentation, originality, structure, writing style, and persuasive force.

If you miss the deadline, you can submit a late entry up until July 10. Late entries will be charged a $20 late fee.

18. AFSA National High School Essay Contest

Prize: $2,500

Students whose parents are not in the Foreign Service are eligible to participate.
Students must be in grades 9-12 in any of the 50 states, Washington, D.C, the U.S. territories, or—if they are U.S. citizens/lawful permanent residents —attending high school overseas.

Guidelines: Your essay should be at least 1,000 words but should not exceed 1,500 words (word count does not apply to the list of sources)

The AFSA Essay Contest focuses on knowledge of foreign policy and the American Foreign Service. Last year’s prompt was:

In your essay, you will select a country or region in which the United States Foreign Service has been involved at any point since 1924 and describe, in 1,500 words or less, how the Foreign Service was successful or unsuccessful in advancing American foreign policy goals – including promoting peace – in this country/region and propose ways in which it might continue to improve those goals in the coming years.

The first-place winner receives $2,500, a paid trip to the nation’s capital with their parents from anywhere in the U.S., and an all-expenses-paid educational voyage courtesy of Semester at Sea. The runner-up wins $1,250 and full tuition to attend a summer session of the National Student Leadership Conference’s International Diplomacy program.

19. EngineerGirl Writing Contest

Prize: $100-$500

The contest is open to individual students in the following three competition categories—Elementary School Students (grades 3-5), Middle School Students (grades 6-8), or High School Students (grades 9-12).
You can also qualify with corresponding homeschool or international grade levels.
High school student essays must be no more than 750 words
You must also include a reference list of 3-10 resources

In this competition, students choose one of four prompts related to the 20 Greatest Engineering Achievements of the 20th Century and explore the technologies that have been developed in the last century and technologies that are being developed today. Students are judged based on their presentation and examples of engineering (~35%), their celebration of diversity (~50%), and their quality of writing (~15%).

20. The Blank Theatre Young Playwright’s Festival

Prize: Play is produced

Eligibility: Playwrights must be 19 years old or younger as of March 15, 2023; co-authored plays are welcome, provided all authors are 19 or younger

Original plays or musicals of any length or genre and on any subject
Up to three plays per playwright or team

While winners of this theater competition do not receive a cash prize, they have the unique opportunity to be mentored by leaders in the field, then will have their play directed and performed by professional artists during the following summer. The 12 best submissions are produced and professionally performed.

21. Saint Mary’s College of California River of Words Contest

Type: Poetry and Arts

The contest is open to K-12 students, ages 5-19
Students must be enrolled in school to be eligible
Participants may submit up to 5 entries for poetry and 5 entries for art (total of up to 10 entries)
Poems should not exceed 32 lines in length (written) or 3 minutes (signed)
Collaborative poems and artwork are accepted, but only one student (chosen as the group representative) will be eligible for any prizes awarded

The River of Words contest aims to promote environmental literacy through the exchange of arts and culture. River of Words has been inspiring educators and students through this competition for over 25 years.

The goal of River of Words is to connect youth with their watersheds—the environments they live in—through engagement with art and poetry related to the idea of “place.” They look for art and poetry that shows the connection between students and the worlds around them.

22. Ayn Rand Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest

Prize: $10,000

Deadline: November 6, 2023

Eligibility: Open to all 12th grade, college, and graduate students worldwide

Guidelines: Essays must be between 800 and 1,600 words in length

In this essay competition, high school seniors pick one of three prompts about a topic related to Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged and write an essay that goes through three stages of grading. Students are graded on their clarity, organization, understanding, and ability to stay “on topic.”

23. Writopia Lab’s Worldwide Plays Festival

Prize: Play produced

Eligibility: Playwrights ages 6 to 18

8 minutes maximum
Any genre or style
Plays should have no more than three characters
There can be no narrator of the play who is not emotionally invested in the story
Students must incorporate at least one of the following props or costumes —blue plates, a yellow blouse, a Valentine’s heart with the word “Love,” a flower crown, a plush hotdog, a Mardi Gras bead with jester heads, a pack of clothespins, Russian nesting dolls, a set of miniature cymbals, a lavender blouse, a lei, or a roll of aluminum foil

Since 2010, Writopia Lab has been producing, designing, and directing one-act plays submitted by young playwrights. These winning plays are then performed by New York City theater professionals. The contest looks for playwrights who embody fearlessness and imagination. Writopia Lab says, “Write deeply! Write fiercely! Write politically and personally! And don’t be afraid to write with a sense of play – they are called plays, after all.”

While we can’t know exactly how activities outside of the classroom will affect your college admissions odds, the 4 Tiers of Extracurricular Activities provide a helpful framework for understanding how colleges view your extracurriculars.

Extracurricular activities in Tiers 1 and 2 are reserved for the most exclusive and acclaimed awards, and can significantly improve your odds of college admission. By contrast, Tiers 3 and 4 are reserved for more common extracurriculars, and have less of an impact on your chances of college admission.

For example, if you place in a nationally renowned writing competition—a Tier 2 activity—this will positively affect your admissions chances. On the other hand, if you receive an honorable mention in your high school’s poetry contest—a Tier 4 activity—your admissions chances will not be significantly affected.

That said, if you are applying to an English Literature or Creative Writing program with a well-developed essay and recommendations that emphasize your commitment to language, participation in Tier 3 and 4 writing competitions could help admissions officers conceptualize your passion for your future career.

Curious how the writing competition you participated in will affect your college admission chances? CollegeVine can help! Our free chancing calculator uses a variety of factors—including grades, test scores, and extracurriculars—to estimate your odds of getting into hundreds of colleges and universities, while also providing insight into how to improve your profile.

Notice Writing on Debate Competition [4 Examples] With PDF

In this lesson today, you will learn to write notices on Debate competitions. Here I will write four sets of sample notices on this topic for a holistic understanding of all kinds of students. So, let’s start.

Feature image of Notice Writing on Debate Competition-1

Lyceum Public School, Howrah

4 April 2022

DEBATE COMPETITION

All the students of our school are hereby notified that our school is going to organize an inter-class debate competition for the students of classes 9 and 10 as well as 11 and 12 on the 12th of April. The topics for the debate competition are as follows:

For classes 9 and 10:

Books are better than television.
Science – a blessing or a curse?

For classes 11 and 12:

Democracy is the best form of government.
Censorship and the freedom of speech.

Students who are interested in participating in the competition are requested to contact their respective class teachers and submit their names by the 10th of April. The venue of the competition is conference hall number 2. The competition will start at 10 a.m. on the 12th of April. All the students are invited to enthusiastically participate in the event. For more details, please contact the undersigned.

(Signature)

[SHRUTI SINGH] Head Girl

St. Teresa School, Pune

17 September 2021

All the students of our school are hereby notified that our school is going to participate in an inter-school debate competition that will be held on the 25th of September. Other schools participating in the competition are St. Pius Convent School, St. Thomas School, South Point School and Maria’s Day School. The competition will be held separately for classes 6 to 8, 9 and 10 as well as 11 and 12. The topics for the debate competition are as follows:

For classes 6 to 8:

Topic – Giving is better than receiving.

Topic – Capital punishment.

Topic – Artificial intelligence.

Students who are interested in participating in the competition are requested to contact their respective class teachers and submit their names by the 20th of September. All the students are expected to participate enthusiastically. For more information, please contact the undersigned.

[ADITYA KUMAR] Vice Secretary

Bidya Bharati School, Kolkata

1st January 2022

All the students of classes IX to XII are notified that on the eve of Republic Day, a debate competition will be held in the Netaji Indoor Stadium, Kolkata, from 10 am. The topic of the debate is, Is post-colonial India still in need of British enlightenment? All participants will be provided with a time limit of 3 minutes and they should strictly adhere to it. All should be in uniforms to attend the debate. Interested people can submit their names to the school office by 15th January. After that, no one is allowed to participate. Everyone is requested to enthusiastically participate in this event and make it a big success. For more details, contact the undersigned.

(Signature)

[Debarati Chakraborty] Principal.

New Hope Sunshine Club, Kolkata

All members of the society are hereby informed that a debate competition will be organized by the local secretary of the New hope sunshine club for children between the ages of 16-20. The event is on 30th January, on the day of the Saraswati Puja. All interested participants are requested to submit their names to the club before the 20th. After that, all submissions will be closed. The topic of the debate is whether capitalism is a boon for the modern world. Participants are hereby informed to come in decent white clothes and a tricolour badge attached to them. The event will begin at 10 am. So the participants are requested to report by 9:30. No comments on any political or religious insensibility will be bothered. For further information please contact the undersigned.

[Debopriya Chakraborty] Club Secretary

So, after going through this session, hopefully, all your doubts regarding this topic have been resolved. If you still have any kind of confusion, kindly let me know through the comment section below. I will attend to your query as soon as possible.

Keep browsing our website for more important sessions related to various kinds of English comprehension. And join our Telegram channel to get the latest updates on our upcoming sessions. Thank you for being with us. All the best.

Essay Competition
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The more you challenge yourself, the more you grow

Tata Building India School Essay Competition is India’s largest essay writing competition that is held every year across schools from 400+ cities in the country. It is one of the key initiatives undertaken by the Tata Group to motivate bright young minds like yourself and get your ideas for the betterment of the country.

Why should you participate?

Express yourself

Tata Building India School Essay Competition gives you the opportunity to express yourself on a variety of topics apart from your regular school subjects. It helps you develop your thought process and articulate your ideas effectively.

Looks great on your CV

Prospective colleges, universities and employers are always impressed with applicants who have competed in thought-provoking competitions that may benefit the society. It just goes to show that you are proactive, thoughtful and responsible. All great attributes for a future leader.

Develop and enhance your skills

The competition will make you ponder and undertake research on the provided theme/topic which will not only improve your ability to find relevant information, but also your reading comprehension and communication - all very essential skills that come in handy in your higher studies and career.

Get recognized and win prizes at 3 levels

Tata Building India School Essay Competition gives you a unique opportunity to get recognized for your writing abilities and win prizes* at 3 levels (by writing an essay only once) – the school level, the city level and the national level. The crowning moment for the national-level winners is the intended visit to New Delhi and a face-to-face meeting with a national dignitary.

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Best Writing Contests in 2024

Showing 383 contests that match your search.

The Reedsy Prompts Contest

Genres: Fiction and Short Story

Every Friday, Reedsy sends out five writing prompts. Enter your response within a week for a chance at $250. Winners may also be included in a future issue of Reedsy’s literary magazine, Prompted.

Additional prizes:

$25 credit toward Reedsy editorial services

💰 Entry fee: $5

📅 Deadline: December 31, 2024

Britain vs The World: Flash Battle 2024

Genres: Flash Fiction

The Top 5 Flashes from Team Britain and Team World will duke it out for prizes, glory – and points. The higher you rank, the more points you get for your team. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place will get a host of cash prizes. The team with the most points will win additional prizes.

2nd: £50 | 3rd: £25

💰 Entry fee: $6

📅 Deadline: April 30, 2024 (Expired)

The Heartland Review Open Calls

The Heartland Review

Genres: Poetry

Founded in 2000, The Heartland Review (ISSN: 2473-9545) is published in the spring and fall as an imprint of The Heartland Review Press. Our biannual journal publishes fiction, creative nonfiction/fiction, and poetry of any all subcategories, styles, and voices. Our writers have ranged in age from 15 to 80+ from around the world. We consider established writers as well as emerging writers. In the past we have reserved space for student writers and emerging artists. We are currently accepting poetry.

Publication in The Heartland Review

📅 Deadline: April 15, 2024 (Expired)

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Amazing Women’s Edition Contest

National Youth Foundation

Genres: Children's

Founded by Black women with a vision for change, the mission of the National Youth Foundation is to promote diversity, inclusion and gender equality through innovative literary programs. To honor the vast accomplishments of women in the United States, the National Youth Foundation is pleased to announce the Amazing Women’s Edition (AWE) competition. This writing contest is open to students in grades K to 8 residing in the United States.

📅 Deadline: January 07, 2022 (Expired)

Love Poem Poetry Contest

FanStory.com Inc.

Write a love poem. All forms of poetry accepted. Your love poem can be fictional or non-fictional. It can be humorous or serious. The choice is yours. But it must clearly be a love poem.

💰 Entry fee: $10

📅 Deadline: July 18, 2024

Scriptwriting Scholarship

Gotham Writers Workshop

Genres: Script Writing

The Gotham Scriptwriting Scholarship is open to people of color who have an interest in writing scripts for movies, TV shows, or plays. Any level of experience is fine. All we ask is the desire to write scripts. Three scholarships will be offered.

2 10-week script-related courses | 3 Intensives | 1 12-hour Mentorship

📅 Deadline: February 15, 2024 (Expired)

Colorado Gold Writing Contest for Unpublished Writers

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers

Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers offers encouragement and opportunity to all writers in a variety of ways, one of them being through the annual Colorado Gold Rush Literary Awards. Our Literary Awards program also seeks to support diverse and marginalized voices. This commitment is important because it reflects the reality of the world we live in, helps us to see and understand one another in more meaningful ways, and deepens the impact of our writing.

📅 Deadline: May 01, 2024 (Expired)

HG Wells Short Story Competition

HG Wells Competition

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Science Fiction, and Short Story

There are two different competitions in 2024: one for those 21 and under, and one for those over 21. The competition for those 21 and under is free to enter and has a prize of £1,000 for the winning entry. All shortlisted entries will also be published in a quality, professionally published paperback anthology.

Under 21: £1,000 | Over 21: £500

💰 Entry fee: $12

📅 Deadline: July 08, 2024 (Expired)

Blue Lynx Prize for Poetry

Lynx House Press

The annual Blue Lynx Prize for Poetry awards $2000 plus publication for a full-length poetry collection. The Prize is 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. Lynx House Press has been publishing fine poetry and prose since 1975. Our titles are distributed by the University of Washington Press.

Publication

💰 Entry fee: $28

📅 Deadline: June 16, 2024 (Expired)

BRMCWC Foundation Awards

Blue Ridge Mountains Conference

Genres: Christian

The mission of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference is to inspire writers to connect with God, other writers, and industry professionals as they embrace their calling with excellence. The entrant must be registered for the entire conference in order to compete.

💰 Entry fee: $45

📅 Deadline: April 01, 2024 (Expired)

Anthology Personal Memoir Competition 2024

Anthology Magazine

Genres: Memoir

Everyone has a story to tell. What’s yours? Authors are invited to share a unique life experience. Whether your memoir recounts a transformative journey, a poignant moment, or a life-altering event, we welcome your story. The Anthology Personal Memoir Competition is open to original and previously unpublished memoirs in the English language by writers of any nationality, living anywhere in the world.

📅 Deadline: August 31, 2024

Mark Lynton History Prize

Columbia Journalism School

Genres: Non-fiction

The Mark Lynton History Prize, in the amount of $10,000, is awarded to a book-length work of history on any topic that best combines intellectual distinction with felicity of expression. Books must have been published in the United States between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023.

💰 Entry fee: $75

📅 Deadline: December 07, 2023 (Expired)

The Masters Review Novel Excerpt Contest

The Masters Review

Genres: Fiction and Novel

Each fall, The Masters Review hosts a call for novel excerpts! Writing a novel can be an arduous and lonely process, but we’re here to champion the great work being produced. Whether your book is not quite finished or ready to pitch, we want to read your words. For this contest, we’re looking for self-contained excerpts that display a strong voice, compelling characters, and carefully constructed narrative arcs. You may submit an excerpt from any section of your completed or in-progress novel, but choose wisely: a synopsis should not be required for understanding the excerpt. As always, we have no limitations on genre, though we are primarily interested in literary fiction.

2nd: $300, online publication | 3rd: $200, online publication

💰 Entry fee: $20

📅 Deadline: November 12, 2023 (Expired)

WOW! Women on Writing Winter 2024 Flash Fiction Contest

WOW! Women on Writing

Seeking short fiction of any genre between 250 - 750 words. The mission of this contest is to inspire creativity, great writing, and provide well-rewarded recognition to contestants.

2nd: $300 | 3rd: $200 | 7 runner-ups: $25 Amazon Gift Cards

📅 Deadline: February 28, 2024 (Expired)

Ninth Drapers Guild Short Story Contest

Drapers Guild

Genres: Fiction

We accept stories of any length, written in English, that fit the theme "Fiction about a Stranger"

Publication on Drapers Guild Website

💰 Entry fee: $15

The Carolyn Readers' Choice Awards

North Texas Romance Writers

Genres: Romance

The Carolyn Readers Choice Award contest is open to all authors of traditional, e-published, and self-published books. Romances featuring characters of all races, creeds, ethnicities, genders, and sexualities or with disabilities or containing spiritual/religious elements are welcome to enter. Please enter the category that best suits your entry over all.

Digital medallion for runners up

💰 Entry fee: $35

📅 Deadline: March 01, 2024 (Expired)

Chapter One Prize

Gutsy Great Novelist

Genres: Fiction, Novel, Young Adult, Crime, Fantasy, Horror, Humor, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, and Thriller

The Gutsy Great Novelist Chapter One Prize is awarded for an outstanding first chapter of an unpublished novel. The prize is open internationally to anyone over 18 writing a novel in English in any genre for adult or YA readers. Winners will be announced March 29, 2024.

2nd: $500 |3rd: $250

F(r)iction Short Story Contest

We seek work that actively pushes boundaries, that forces us to question traditions and tastes. If your work takes risks, we want to read it. We like strong narratives that make us feel something and stories we haven’t seen before. We accept work, written in English, from anywhere in the world—regardless of genre, style, or origin—and welcome speculative writing and experimental literature. Strange is good. Strange with a strong character arc is even better. Keep it weird, folks.

Science Fiction Writing Contest

FanStory.com Inc

Genres: Fiction, Science Writing, and Science Fiction

Share a Science Fiction themed story to enter this writing contest with a cash prizes. Let your imagination fly and enjoy sharing your writing.

Winning entries will be features on the FanStory.com welcome page.

💰 Entry fee: $9

📅 Deadline: April 12, 2023 (Expired)

Diode Editions Full Length Book Contest

Diode Editions

Genres: Novel

Open to all poets over 18 years old writing in English. Collaborations, hybrid works, and simultaneous submissions are welcome. Please notify Diode Editions if your manuscript is accepted elsewhere.

📅 Deadline: July 15, 2024

7 Day Story Writing Challenge

Genres: Fiction, Flash Fiction, Short Story, Crime, Fantasy, Horror, Humor, Mystery, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, and Young Adult

Register now for our next 7-day story writing challenge. A secret theme, a randomly assigned genre, and just 7 days to write a story of no more than 2,000 words. Our 7-day story writing challenges take place throughout the year. The challenges are free and you can even get feedback on your story. Take part in one challenge or take part in all of them!

Publication on website

💰 Entry fee: $0

📅 Deadline: April 22, 2024 (Expired)

As Bright as the Moon

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Short Story, and Thriller

Can’t decide between the headstrong alpha or the hunky omega? Us either. We’re seeking stories featuring steamy werewolf romance, perfect for reading under a full moon. Whether you’re Team Jacob Black or Team Alcide Herveaux…we’re all Team Awoooo. Works up to 3,000 words will be considered.

2nd place: $300; 3rd place: $100

📅 Deadline: May 31, 2022 (Expired)

Ghost Novellas for the "Presence" Collection

Kinsman Avenue Publishing, Inc

Genres: Fiction, Flash Fiction, Novella, and Thriller

Ghost novellas wanted from (but not limited to) underrepresented authors by April 31, 2024. Entries must be between 15,000-25,000 words, incorporating BIPOC cultures, traditions, and histories. Selected submissions receive $1000 USD and publication within Kinsman Quarterly’s journal and the “Presence” collection. $25 submission fee required.

Publication in the Kinsman Quarterly and the "Presence" collection

💰 Entry fee: $25

📅 Deadline: March 31, 2024 (Expired)

Annual Poetry Contest

Third Wednesday

Each year Third Wednesday awards 3 $100 prizes in its annual poetry contest. For this year's contest, entries will be accepted from November 1, 2020 through February 15, 2021. We will accept contest entries of up to 3 previously unpublished poems of any style and subject matter. There is no limit on length.

print copy of the 3rd Wednesday contest issue

Miller Williams Poetry Prize

University of Arkansas Press

Every year, the University of Arkansas Press accepts submissions for the Miller Williams Poetry Series and from the books selected awards the $5,000 Miller Williams Poetry Prize in the following summer. For almost a quarter century the press has made this series the cornerstone of its work as a publisher of some of the country’s best new poetry. The series and prize are named for and operated to honor the cofounder and longtime director of the press, Miller Williams.

Publication through the University of Arkansas Press

📅 Deadline: September 30, 2024

2024 International Literary Prize

Hammond House Publishing

Genres: Poetry, Script Writing, and Short Story

Our Annual Literary Prize is back again for 2024, with bigger cash prizes, publication for all shortlisted entries in our annual anthologies, a televised award ceremony, and an inspiring new theme.

Worldwide publication for all shortlisted entries

Ethos Literacy Annual Short Short Story Contest

Ethos Literacy

Genres: Fiction, Flash Fiction, and Short Story

The challenge: write a story using 100 words on one of four topics. Open to all ages with a special prize for authors 14 years or younger. The contest supports nonprofit literacy programs.

6 cash prizes of $100 each; publication in digital magazine, inclusion in webcast

📅 Deadline: February 01, 2024 (Expired)

Tanka Poetry Contest

For this contest you are challenged to write a Tanka poem. Tanka is a form of poetry that often follows a specific syllable count. That count is 5-7-5-7-7. So your first line has five syllables, second has seven, third has five and the last two lines each have seven syllables. Cash prize!

📅 Deadline: June 18, 2024 (Expired)

The Raven Short Story Contest

Pulp Literature Press

This contest is for previously unpublished short fiction between 250 and 2500 words in length. Multiple entries welcome. Total entries limited to 300. Show us your most scintillating treasures in the form of short fiction up to 2500 words in length and you could be the one bringing home $300 CAD to line your nest!

Publication in Pulp Literature

📅 Deadline: October 15, 2024

The Betty Award

As one of the few competitions for elementary and middle school students, The Betty Award grants cash prizes for written pieces below 1,000 words. The Betty Award has both a Spring & Fall contest.

📅 Deadline: May 04, 2024 (Expired)

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 (Expired)

Dave Williamson National Short Story Competition

Manitoba Writers' Guild

Open to writers across Canada. Short prose in English, 2,500-5,000 words in any fiction genre. We actively encourage submissions from all writers who are 18 years of age or older.

2nd: $600 CAD | 3rd: $400 CAD

Fiction Potluck

The Writer's Workout

Fiction Potluck is free to enter and open to fiction writers of all ages around the world. One entry per person per challenge. Submissions are accepted six weeks at a time, starting in January, April, July, and October. The challenge and guest judge will change each open period. The guest judge picks the challenge—we never know what we'll get!

Query package reviews to all finalists

📅 Deadline: May 20, 2024 (Expired)

Free Verse Poetry Contest

Write a free verse poem. This is a method of writing poetry, which does not essentially follow any structure or style. There is no fixed meter and no structure regarding rhyme and lines in each stanza.

📅 Deadline: August 22, 2022 (Expired)

F(r)iction Poetry Contest

Discover the finest writing contests of 2024 for fiction and non-fiction authors — including short story competitions, essay writing competitions, poetry contests, and many more. Updated weekly, these contests are vetted by Reedsy to weed out the scammers and time-wasters. If you’re looking to stick to free writing contests, simply use our filters as you browse.

Why you should submit to writing contests

Submitting to poetry competitions and free writing contests in 2024 is absolutely worth your while as an aspiring author: just as your qualifications matter when you apply for a new job, a writing portfolio that boasts published works and award-winning pieces is a great way to give your writing career a boost. And not to mention the bonus of cash prizes!

That being said, we understand that taking part in writing contests can be tough for emerging writers. First, there’s the same affliction all writers face: lack of time or inspiration. Entering writing contests is a time commitment, and many people decide to forego this endeavor in order to work on their larger projects instead — like a full-length book. Second, for many writers, the chance of rejection is enough to steer them clear of writing contests.

But we’re here to tell you that two of the great benefits of entering writing contests happen to be the same as those two reasons to avoid them.

When it comes to the time commitment: yes, you will need to expend time and effort in order to submit a quality piece of writing to competitions. That being said, having a hard deadline to meet is a great motivator for developing a solid writing routine.

Think of entering contests as a training session to become a writer who will need to meet deadlines in order to have a successful career. If there’s a contest you have your eye on, and the deadline is in one month, sit down and realistically plan how many words you’ll need to write per day in order to meet that due date — and don’t forget to also factor in the time you’ll need to edit your story!

For tips on setting up a realistic writing plan, check out this free, ten-day course : How to Build a Rock-Solid Writing Routine.

In regards to the fear of rejection, the truth is that any writer aspiring to become a published author needs to develop relatively thick skin. If one of your goals is to have a book traditionally published, you will absolutely need to learn how to deal with rejection, as traditional book deals are notoriously hard to score. If you’re an indie author, you will need to adopt the hardy determination required to slowly build up a readership.

The good news is that there’s a fairly simple trick for learning to deal with rejection: use it as a chance to explore how you might be able to improve your writing.

In an ideal world, each rejection from a publisher or contest would come with a detailed letter, offering construction feedback and pointing out specific tips for improvement. And while this is sometimes the case, it’s the exception and not the rule.

Still, you can use the writing contests you don’t win as a chance to provide yourself with this feedback. Take a look at the winning and shortlisted stories and highlight their strong suits: do they have fully realized characters, a knack for showing instead of telling, a well-developed but subtly conveyed theme, a particularly satisfying denouement?

The idea isn’t to replicate what makes those stories tick in your own writing. But most examples of excellent writing share a number of basic craft principles. Try and see if there are ways for you to translate those stories’ strong points into your own unique writing.

Finally, there are the more obvious benefits of entering writing contests: prize and publication. Not to mention the potential to build up your readership, connect with editors, and gain exposure.

Resources to help you win writing competitions in 2024

Every writing contest has its own set of submission rules. Whether those rules are dense or sparing, ensure that you follow them to a T. Disregarding the guidelines will not sway the judges’ opinion in your favor — and might disqualify you from the contest altogether.

Aside from ensuring you follow the rules, here are a few resources that will help you perfect your submissions.

Free online courses

On Writing:

"How to Craft a Killer Short Story" ( Click here )
"The Non-Sexy Business of Writing Non-Fiction" ( Click here )
"How to Write a Novel" ( Click here )
"Understanding Point of View" ( Click here )
"Developing Characters That Your Readers Will Love" ( Click here )
"Writing Dialogue That Develops Plot and Character" ( Click here )
"Stop Procrastinating! Build a Solid Writing Routine" ( Click here )

On Editing:

"Story Editing for Authors" ( Click here )
"How to Self-Edit Your Manuscript Like a Pro" ( Click here )
"Novel Revision: Practical Tips for Rewrites" ( Click here )
"How to Write a Novel: Steps From a Bestselling Writer" ( Click here )
"How to Write a Short Story in 9 Simple Steps" ( Click here )
"100 Literary Devices With Examples: The Ultimate List" ( Click here )
"20 Writing Tips to Improve Your Craft" ( Click here )
"How to Write Fabulous Dialogue [9 Tips + Examples]" ( Click here )
"8 Character Development Exercises to Write 3D Characters" ( Click here )

Bonus resources

200+ Short Story Ideas ( Click here )
600+ Writing Prompts to Inspire You ( Click here )
100+ Creative Writing Exercises for Fiction Authors ( Click here )
Story Title Generator ( Click here )
Pen Name Generator ( Click here )
Character Name Generator ( Click here )

After you submit to a writing competition in 2024

It’s exciting to send a piece of writing off to a contest. However, once the initial excitement wears off, you may be left waiting for a while. Some writing contests will contact all entrants after the judging period — whether or not they’ve won. Other writing competitions will only contact the winners.

Here are a few things to keep in mind after you submit:

Many writing competitions don’t have time to respond to each entrant with feedback on their story. However, it never hurts to ask! Feel free to politely reach out requesting feedback — but wait until after the selection period is over.

If you’ve submitted the same work to more than one writing competition or literary magazine, remember to withdraw your submission if it ends up winning elsewhere.

After you send a submission, don’t follow it up with a rewritten or revised version. Instead, ensure that your first version is thoroughly proofread and edited. If not, wait until the next edition of the contest or submit the revised version to other writing contests.

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Notice Writing Format, Tips, Topics, Examples [2024 Guide]

Notice Writing Format: Notice writing is an important topic in English writing skills for CBSE, ICSE and state board students. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the notice writing format, tips, topics, and examples for students of all classes (class 5 to class 12). This article will definitely answer your query on how to write a notice. So, read on to learn more!

Table of Contents

What is a Notice?

A notice is an effective means of communication that provides information about something that is happening or is about to happen.

What is the Purpose of a Notice?

A notice is a way to convey a message briefly and directly. It is issued to give some information or to make some important announcement.

Where Notice is Displayed?

A notice is usually meant to be pinned on boards in schools or colleges. When an announcement is meant for public interest it is issued in the form of a notice in the newspapers.

Notice Writing Format

The format of a notice is very simple. A good notice must have the following features:

The name of the organization /Issuing authority (capital letters).
The word ‘NOTICE’ (capital letters).
The date of the notice .
The topic of the notice .
The body of the notice (in simple & attractive language).
The Name and designation of issuing authority.

Important Tips

1. A well-written notice must contain these 5 facts: (i) Name of the event. (ii) Date and time of the event. (iii) Venue of the event. (iv) Target audience, invitees, etc. (v) Whom to contact or apply. 2. The sentences should be short and to the point. 3. The prescribed word limit for a notice is 40–50 words. 4. It is usually written in the passive voice. 5. The notice should be written within a box.

Notice Writing Topics/Examples

Let’s learn the notice writing format through some examples.

Example 1: Notice Writing on Blood Donation Camp

Q. Suppose You are the cultural secretary of your school. Now, write a notice urging the students to participate in the Blood Donation Camp organized by the school. You should also mention the date, time and venue of the program.

GARDEN HIGH SCHOOL NOTICE

3rd July, 20XX

Blood Donation Camp

This is to notify that our school is going to organize a Blood Donation Camp on 15th July in the school premises at 11 a.m. The camp will be held under the supervision of specialist doctors and nurses. The local M.L.A. will be present as the chief guest of the program. Blood donation is a selfless act that can save countless lives. Students willing to take part in the program are requested to enrol their names to the undersigned by 10th July.

XYZ (Cultural Secretary)

notice writing class 12 blood donation camp

Example 2: Notice Writing on Debate Competition

Q. Your school has decided to organize an inter-class debate competition. As a cultural secretary, write a notice informing the students about the competition. Mention the date, time, place and motion of the debate.

BIRLA HIGH SCHOOL NOTICE

Date: July 15, 20XX

Inter-class Debate Competition

Students are hereby informed that an inter-class debate competition will be held in our school hall on 30th July at 11 a.m. The motion for the debate is ‘ Global Warming : a threat’. The students of classes X, XI and XII can participate here. Students willing to participate in the debate are requested to submit their names to the undersigned on or before 25th July.

Signature XYZ (Cultural Secretary)

Also Read: Notice Writing for Class 6 | Format, Topics, Examples

Example 3: Notice Writing format for Lost and Found

Q. A wristwatch was found left behind in the school premises. As a Cultural Secretary of the Students Union, write a notice informing the students of the incident and asking the owner to collect it from you.

DON BOSCO SCHOOL NOTICE

May 16, 20XX

A Black Watch Found

This is to notify that a wristwatch has been found today in the school premises. It’s a black coloured Titan watch with a leather strap. The owner of the watch is requested to collect it as soon as possible from the undersigned by giving the necessary evidence.

XYZ (Secretary, Students Union)

Example 4: Notice Writing on Annual Function

Q. Your school is going to organize its annual function day on 15th June 20XX. As the cultural secretary draft a notice for your school notice board inviting the students to participate in the function.

VIVEKANANDA MISSION SCHOOL NOTICE

3rd June, 20XX

Annual Function Day

All the students of the school are hereby informed that our school is going to organize its annual function day on 15th June. The function will be held in the school premises from 9 a.m to 2 p.m. There will be an arrangement of cultural activities like dances, dramas, songs, poems, quizzes etc. Students who are interested to take part in the function are requested to give their names to the class teacher before 10th April.

For further details, contact the undersigned.

ABC (Secretary, Cultural Committee)

Example 5: Notice Writing on Educational/Study Tour

Q. Imagine you are the school captain. Your school has planned an educational tour to Science City, Kolkata. Write a notice inviting all the students of class XI and XII to participate in the tour (within 50 words).

THE HERITAGE SCHOOL NOTICE

January 7, 20XX

Educational Tour

This is to inform all the students of class XI and XII that our school is organizing an educational tour to Science City, Kolkata on 22nd January. Interested students are requested to enlist their names and deposit an amount of RS. 1000 to the undersigned by 15th January. The written permission of the guardian is mandatory for this tour.

XYZ (School Captain)

Also Read: Notice Writing for Class 7 | Format, Topics, Examples

Example 6: Notice Writing on Cultural Program

Q. Suppose you are the school captain. Your school is going to hold a cultural program very soon. Write a notice inviting the students to take part in the program.

LORETO DAY SCHOOL NOTICE

November 4, 20XX

Cultural Program

All the students are hereby informed that our school is organizing a cultural program on the occasion of Children’s Day. There will be various programs like singing, dancing, drama, painting, Quizzes etc. The details of the program are given below:

Date: 14th November Time: 11 a.m. Venue: School Auditorium

Therefore, interested students are requested to give their names to the undersigned before 10th November.

ABC (School Captain)

Example 7: Notice Writing on Sports Day

Q. Suppose you are the sports secretary of your school, write a notice for the school notice board inviting students to give their names for various sports events to be held at the school playground on the occasion of Annual Sports Day.

ST. JAMES SCHOOL NOTICE

February 3, 20XX

Annual Sports Day

This is to inform all the students that our school is going to organize its Annual Sports Day on 15th February. This will take place at the school playground at 10 a.m. The district collector will be present as the chief guest of the event. There will be different games like sack race, marble spoon race, High Jump, Long Jump, volleyball etc.

Interested students can give their names to their respective class teachers for participation in the event. For more details please contact the undersigned.

XYZ (Sports Secretary)

Example 8: Notice writing on Music Competition

Q. Your school is hosting an inter-school music competition. Write a notice informing the students about the event and inviting them to participate in the competition.

SOUTH POINT HIGH SCHOOL NOTICE

31st May, 20XX

Inter-School Music Competition

Students are hereby informed that an inter-school music competition will be held on 10th June in the school auditorium at 11 a.m. Students of classes VI to XII can participate here. The categories for the competition are Rabindra Sangeet, Hindustani Classical, and Patriotic Songs. There is no registration fee for participating in the program. Students who are desirous to participate in the competition should register their names to their respective class teachers latest by 7th June.

For further inquiries, you may contact the undersigned.

Example 9: Notice Writing on Quiz Competition

Q. Imagine you are the secretary of the cultural committee of your school. Invite students by a general notice, to participate in an inter-class quiz competition. mention the details of the program.

CALCUTTA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL NOTICE

July 10, 20XX

Inter-Class Quiz Competition

This is to inform students from class VIII to class XII that our school is planning to organize a quiz competition. The event will take place on 23rd July at the school auditorium from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The topics of the quiz competition will be general knowledge, Science , History and many more. The first three winners will be given prizes and gift hampers. Kindly enrol your name by July 18 to your respective class teachers.

For more information contact the undersigned.

Example 10: Notice Writing on Teachers’ Day

Q. Imagine you are the secretary of your school club. Your school is planning to hold a grand event on the occasion of Teachers’ Day. Write a notice calling students to participate in the event.

BLOSSOM SCHOOL NOTICE

21st August, 20XX

Teacher’s Day Celebration

All the students of Blossom School are hereby notified that our school is going to organize an event on the occasion of Teachers’ Day . There will be some cultural activities like dancing, singing, role play etc. All of you are requested to make this event a grand success with your participation. The details of the event are as follows:

Date: 5th September Time: 10: 00 am to 3:00 pm. Venue: School Auditorium

Those who want to perform in cultural activities may submit their names to the undersigned by 1st September.

ABC (Secretary, School Club)

Read More: Notice Writing on Lost and Found – Format, Examples

Blood Donation Camp Notice Writing – Format, Examples [2024]

Notice Writing for Class 6 | Format, Topics, Examples [2024 Guide]

Notice Writing on Science Exhibition for Class 7

Notice Writing for Class 7 | Format, Topics, Examples [2024 Guide]

Notice Writing on Lost and Found – Format, Examples [2024]

NoticeBard’s Republic Day Essay Writing Competition [Update]: Result Out on Feb 28!

Gaurav Chaurasia
Feb 15, 2024

Update About the Competition

NoticeBard is delighted to announce the successful conclusion of its Republic Day Essay Writing Competition with 132 submissions from 105 schools across 22 Indian states and participation from South Africa, Kenya, UAE, and Saudi Arabia students.

About NoticeBard

NoticeBard was started in March 2017 as a notice-board for educational opportunities and events. NoticeBard is also a bard (story-teller) of student-related news and issues. With our mission of enabling informed and inspired careers , we help students by ensuring that all events and opportunities are in one place.

About the Competition

This essay writing competition aimed to encourage students interested in writing and willing to submit original and well-thought-of pieces for publication with us. Participation was open to students studying from classes 8 to 12 in any school in India.

The top 10 submissions will receive prize money of up to Rs. 13,000, a letter of excellence from our CEO, and their articles will be published on our website.

Judging Criteria

All submitted articles will be reviewed for quality, relevance, and adherence to the guidelines.
Only the article selected for publication will be notified via email and published on the website.
Please note that we reserve the right to make editorial changes for clarity, grammar, and formatting purposes while maintaining the integrity of your content.

The copyrights to the articles found suitable for publication on NoticeBard will rest with NoticeBard.

Changes in Terms and Conditions

The organisation reserves the right to change the terms and conditions, including the prize money and the last submission date, in case at least 50 entries are not received.

Result Announcement

The judging process is ongoing, and winners will be announced on February 28, 2024 , which is National Science Day. The prize-winning essays will be published by March 10, 2024.

Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding this competition, please email [email protected] or call/WhatsApp: +91-8904610838 .

We thank each student who participated in this Essay Writing competition. Results will be officially announced on Feb 28, 2024. Thank you for your patience and support.

Join Our Competitions WhatsApp Channel

Get daily updates, join our competitions telegram group.

Get relevant opportunities in your inbox every day!

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Hello, Jacklyn. You can submit the essay in MS Word Format.

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Drawing Competition Notice Writing For a School Competition

Drawing competition Notice Writing is general information that gives details about a drawing competition, including time, date, place, and everything else.

Suppose your school’s cultural committee has arranged a drawing competition, and you are the secretary of the committee, now informing all the students to write a notice.

This post is an example of a drawing competition Notice Writing for a school competition that gives all the details about the drawing competition and how it’s going to be held

Notice Writing on the Drawing Competition is written based on the following points:

Date and time of the drawing competition
Who can participate in the competition
The theme of the drawing competition
What is the prize for the winner
Encourage the student

Drawing Competition Notice Writing

All The Students,

We are thrilled to announce that our school cultural committee has arranged a drawing competition for all the students. On May 25, the drawing competition will be held at our school auditorium hall from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

For all the students who want to show their artistic talent to the world, this is a great opportunity for them. The theme of the drawing competition will be “Educating Girls to Educate Society”. Students are allowed to draw any type of painting, such as pencil sketches, color paintings, oil paintings, etc.

The student should follow the theme, and their painting should be original and not copied from anyone else. Students will be provided with all necessary drawing components, like drawing paper, pencils, and eraser colours.

The competition will be judged by some expert artists, and the first three winners will be awarded a cash prize and a trophy. There will be a participation certificate for all the students who take part in this drawing competition.

We encourage all interested students to enroll their names with their respective class teachers on or before April 20. It’s a great opportunity to show your talent to the world, as well as win some prizes. Don’t miss it.

Biplab Biswas Secretary of The Cultural Committee RKL High School

Sd Head Master Signature

Special Notes: All the notice writing for any competition will be the same as this post; you just have to change the context of the competition.

For example, if the competition is a quiz competition, you have to write all the details about the quiz competition. Notice writing format will be the same for any competition in school.

If you still have any doubts, write them in the comments section. Also, check out more notice writing in Education in second .

The Winners of Our Open Letter Contest

See the more than 150 finalists and read the top nine winning letters on hearing aids, colonialism, A.I. art and more.

Six images, including a hearing aid in an ear, three children sitting on a classroom carpet, a lawn with grass and flowers, a statue with people standing around it, an A.I.-generated image and a group of children running through a sign that reads "Tasmania, our time has come."

By The Learning Network

What’s bothering you? Who could do something about it? What could you say to persuade that person to care or to make change? How could you make us care, too?

Those are the questions we posed to teenagers for our new Open Letter Contest this spring, inviting students to write public-facing letters to people or groups about issues that mattered to them. We received over 8,000 in response.

Written to senators about making health care more accessible, to Gen Z about embracing kindness, and to Taylor Swift about reducing her carbon emissions, the letters were direct, passionate and powerful. We even received one addressed to us, The Learning Network, to which we will be posting a reply next week.

Below, and in this PDF , you’ll find the list of the more than 150 finalists whose work we are honoring. We’ll be publishing the nine winning letters in full — one each day over the next two weeks. We hope you’ll read them and let the writers know what you think by commenting on their work.

But, as we know from running contests for years, winning isn’t the only reward. In their accompanying process statements, many echoed this sentiment by Victoria Anderson-Lynch, whose letter to street harassers made it to our final round of judging:

It started as a prompt given to me as an assignment signaling the end of our grading period, nothing more than another thing to add to my ever growing to-do list … Somewhere along the way my priorities changed. This letter has no longer been written for the sake of having it done, it’s not for any teacher or grade. I am not submitting this with any intention of winning, because what I have discovered throughout this writing process is something more powerful than an award will ever hold. I was given the privilege of finding my voice. For the first time in my life I understand the power my words hold. I hope someday others will resonate with that power and use it to find a voice of their own.

Thank you to all the students who participated, and to the educators who took a chance on this new contest.

If you enjoyed this challenge, join us for our Summer Reading Contest through Aug. 16.

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SCHOOL ESSAY WRITING COMPETITION Template
Essay Contest Poster Templates to Edit Online
Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition in School (2023)
Write a notice requesting the student of school imphal to participate
Essay Contest Poster Templates to Edit Online
[Expert Answer] Notice writing on quiz contest

VIDEO

Write a notice for your school notice board informing the students about the 'fancy fete'
Notice writing
Essay writing competition at HCHS ( 01-06 -2024 )
NOTICE
Essay writing competition🖊️📃
Notice writing for an educational tour/ excursion for school students

COMMENTS

Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition in School (2024)
Subject:- Essay Writing Competition. An essay writing competition is being organized in our school on the occasion of International Writers Day, March 3, 20XX. SDM of our district will be the chief guest. The program will start at 10:00 am and end at 1:00 pm. The topic of the essay is how pollution affects our health biologically.
Notice for Essay Writing Competition in School
a. Subject of the essay: On the life and activities of any freedom fighter.. b. Word limit: 600 - 650 words. c. Last date of submission of names: 10/08/20XX. d. Venue: Seminar hall of our school. e. Date & Time: 15/08/20XX, 10 a.m.. The top three essay writing participants will get an attractive prize and merit certificates from the hand of the headmaster.
25 Best Writing Competitions for High School Students
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.
Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition
Example 3: Notice for Inter-School Essay Writing Competition. TSG Gurukul School, Bhubaneswar. NOTICE. Inter-School Essay Writing Competition. Date: 8th June, 20XX. Topic: Inter-School Essay Writing Competition. An inter-school essay writing competition is scheduled to be held at the ABC Public School, Angul in the second week of this month.
The Big List of Student Writing Contests for 2023-2024
Jane Austen Society Essay Contest. High school students can win up to $1,000 and publication by entering an essay on a topic specified by the Jane Austen Society related to a Jane Austen novel. How To Enter. Details for the 2024 contest will be announced in November. Essay length is from six to eight pages, not including works cited. 13.
Mastering Writing Competitions: Tips from a Two-Time Winner
These tips can also be applied to essay writing, as particular case studies, anecdotes and imagery can help to anchor the focus of your work, highlighting your personal take on the subject. 9. Pay attention to tone. It's important to bear in mind the tone you want to set for your piece.
Global Essay Competition for High School Students
Welcome to The Harvard Crimson Global Essay Competition 2022! The most powerful global essay writing competition for high school students. The Harvard Crimson Global Essay Competition provides a platform for young, ambitious high school students to exercise their writing skills in a non-traditional environment. Register here!
18 Writing Contests for High School Students
The Teen Ink contest, recognized as one of the premier writing contests for high school students, encourages young writers and artists aged 13 to 19 to submit their best work across various creative categories. This online contest is designed to publish exceptional works by teens in fiction, poetry, nonfiction, art, photography, and reviews.
Oxford and Cambridge Essay Competitions
This essay competition is designed to give students the opportunity to develop and showcase their independent study and writing skills. Unfortunately, for external reasons, the essay won't be running in 2023, but may well be running in 2024 so do keep an eye out so you don't miss it! Sample Essay Questions from 2020.
Narrative High School Writing Contest
Welcome to the High School Writing Contest —an invitation to be discovered and to have your voice shared with the world! This year we invited students to use the prompt MY NOTE TO THE WORLD as a springboard to craft a letter (essay) or story of no more than 600 words, or a poem of 10 to 50 lines, to depict a theme or problem and propose some ...
Our Ninth Annual Student Editorial Contest
We invite students to write opinion pieces on the issues that matter to them. Contest dates: March 2 to April 13, 2022. A crowd at the 2018 Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City. The essay ...
Best Essay Writing Contests in 2024
Genres: Essay, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story. Bacopa Literary Review's 2024 contest is open from March 4 through April 4, with $200 Prize and $100 Honorable Mention in each of six categories: Fiction, Creative Nonfiction, Flash Fiction, Free Verse Poetry, Formal Poetry, and Visual Poetry.
The 17 Best Writing Contests for High School Students
YoungArts Competition. Award Amount: Up to $10,000 cash awards. Deadline: October 15, 2022; application for 2024 opens June 2023. Fee: $35. Open to students in a variety of disciplines, including visual arts, writing, and music, the YoungArts competition asks students to submit a portfolio of work.
23 Writing Competitions for High School Students
Prize: $100-$10,000. Deadline: Passed, but the contest will reopen in 2024. Eligibility: The contest is open to United States high school students in grades 9-12, U.S. students under the age of twenty enrolled in a high school correspondence/GED program, and U.S. citizens attending schools overseas. Guidelines:
Notice Writing on Debate Competition [4 Examples] With PDF
Here I will write four sets of sample notices on this topic for a holistic understanding of all kinds of students. So, let's start. Example 1. Lyceum Public School, Howrah. NOTICE. Advertisement. 4 April 2022. DEBATE COMPETITION. All the students of our school are hereby notified that our school is going to organize an inter-class debate ...
Essay Writing Competition for Students
Tata Building India School Essay Competition gives you a unique opportunity to get recognized for your writing abilities and win prizes* at 3 levels (by writing an essay only once) - the school level, the city level and the national level. The crowning moment for the national-level winners is the intended visit to New Delhi and a face-to-face ...
The Ultimate List of Writing Contests in 2024 • Win Cash Prizes!
Additional prizes: Publication in newsletter. 💰 Entry fee: $5. 📅 Deadline: March 15, 2024 (Expired) 1 2 … 11 Next ›. Discover the finest writing contests of 2024 for fiction and non-fiction authors — including short story competitions, essay writing competitions, poetry contests, and many more. Updated weekly, these contests are ...
essay competition notice writing
Write a Notice on Essay Writing Competition in School (2024) Are you searching about how to write a notice on essay writing competition in school? If yes, then don't worry becau
An Invitation to High Schoolers: Tell Us What You Think
Include your name, age, high school and grade, city or town and state (for publication), and telephone number (not for publication). Email: [email protected]. Please put "Student Competition ...
Notice Writing Format, Tips, Topics, Examples [2024 Guide]
Example 1: Notice Writing on Blood Donation Camp. Q. Suppose You are the cultural secretary of your school. Now, write a notice urging the students to participate in the Blood Donation Camp organized by the school. You should also mention the date, time and venue of the program.
Republic Day Essay Writing Competition by NoticeBard [Update]
The prize-winning essays will be published by March 10, 2024. Contact Information. If you have any questions regarding this competition, please email [email protected] or call/WhatsApp: +91-8904610838. We thank each student who participated in this Essay Writing competition. Results will be officially announced on Feb 28, 2024.
Drawing Competition Notice Writing For a School Competition
Drawing Competition Notice Writing. Date: All The Students, We are thrilled to announce that our school cultural committee has arranged a drawing competition for all the students. On May 25, the drawing competition will be held at our school auditorium hall from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. For all the students who want to show their artistic talent ...
Write English Notice for School Competition
How to write Notice in EnglishEnglish Notice writing for school competitionWrite English notice for school competition Notice for school competitionEasy shor...
The Winners of Our Open Letter Contest
Student Open Letter Contest Winners. In alphabetical order, by the writer's first name, below, and in this PDF.. Top 9 Winners. Alexander Klee, 16, Amity Regional High School, Woodbridge, Conn ...