10 Prestigious Contests for High School Writers
Boluo School | 2023-12-15 | 4 min read

In our commitment to fostering academic excellence and cultivating the diverse talents of our student body, we present an insightful guide to high school writing contests. This curated list serves as a valuable resource for those eager to showcase their literary prowess beyond the classroom. These competitions provide a platform for students to refine their writing skills, delve into various genres, and gain recognition on a broader stage. From nationally recognized contests to specialized competitions, this blog aims to inform and guide Boluo School writers toward opportunities that not only celebrate their individuality but also contribute to their growth as adept and versatile wordsmiths. 


Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

Sponsor: Scholastic

Entry Fee: $10

Top Prize: Medal & Publication

Ages: Students in grades 7-12

Expected Contest Deadline: December 2024

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards stand as one of the most prestigious and enduring recognition programs for young artists and writers in the United States. Open to students in grades 7-12, the awards celebrate the creative excellence of emerging talents across various categories, providing a national platform for showcasing and honoring their artistic and literary achievements. (Open to US residents only)


Leonard L. Milberg ‘53 Poetry Prize - ITL

Sponsor: Princeton University

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: $500

Ages: Students in grades 9-12

Expected Contest Deadline: November 2024

The Leonard L. Milberg '53 High School Poetry Prize is a prestigious award that celebrates the poetic achievements of talented high school students. Sponsored by Princeton University, this annual competition recognizes and rewards outstanding poems, providing a unique opportunity for young poets to gain recognition in the literary community.


The Adroit Prize

Sponsor: The Adroit Journal

Entry Fee: $15

Top Prize: $200

Ages: Students in grades 9-12

Expected Contest Deadline: May 2024

The Adroit Prizes for Poetry and Prose, offered by The Adroit Journal, recognize exceptional work from emerging writers on a global scale, providing a platform for diverse voices in contemporary literature. Open to US residents only.


Various Contests

Sponsor: New York Times

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: Publication in NY Times

Ages: 11+

Expected Contest Deadline: Rolling (new contests each month)

The New York Times occasionally features writing contests or opportunities for young writers in collaboration with various educational initiatives. They publish monthly contests for a variety of genres and offer young writers the opportunity to be featured in their prestigious publication. 


The Betty Award

Sponsor: The Betty Award

Entry Fee: $20

Top Prize: $300

Ages: 8-12

Contest Deadline: May 4, 2024

The Betty Award is a prestigious international writing competition that is open to entrants from around the world and offers a unique platform for teenagers to express themselves through various literary forms. Whether it's poetry, fiction, or nonfiction, The Betty Award celebrates and recognizes the imaginative endeavors of young minds. 


International Essay Contest for Young People

Sponsor: The Goi Peace Foundation 

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: $820

Ages: Open to students of all ages

Expected Contest Deadline: June 2024

The Goi Peace Foundation International Essay Contest for Young People is a prestigious international competition aimed at encouraging global youth to express their thoughts on themes related to peace and sustainable development. Young writers are invited to submit essays that explore innovative ideas and solutions for building a more harmonious and sustainable world. 


The Bennington Young Writers Awards

Sponsor: Bennington College

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: $1000

Ages: Students in grades 9-12

Contest opens spring 2024

The Bennington Young Writers Awards represent a distinguished literary competition designed to recognize and celebrate the exceptional talents of young writers. Open to high school students, the contest spans various genres, including poetry, fiction, and non-fiction, providing a versatile platform for creative expression. 


Young Authors Writing Competition

Sponsor: Columbia College of Chicago

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: Publication

Ages: Students in grades 9-12

Contest runs Jan-Feb 2024

With annual competitions in creative nonfiction, fiction and poetry, this contest not only recognizes outstanding talent but also provides a valuable opportunity for young authors to showcase their work to a broader audience, affirming the college's commitment to nurturing and promoting literary excellence.


NSHSS Creating Writing Scholarship

Sponsor: National Society of High School Scholars

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: $2000

Ages: Students in grades 9-12

Contest opens May 2024

The NSHSS Creative Writing Scholarship is a prestigious opportunity that recognizes and supports the artistic endeavors of high-achieving high school students. Sponsored by the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), this scholarship aims to empower young writers, providing financial assistance and a platform for their creative expression as they pursue higher education.


Write the World Monthly Contest

Sponsor: Write the World

Entry Fee: Free

Top Prize: Publication

Ages: Students in ages 13-18

Contest Deadline: Rolling (new contests

The Write the World contest is a global writing platform that empowers young voices by hosting monthly competitions across various genres, fostering a vibrant community of aspiring writers. With a commitment to providing constructive feedback and publication opportunities, Write the World inspires creativity and collaboration among its diverse community of young writers from around the world.