Other Writing Competitions
In addition to the writing competitions hosted by the Independent Education Program, students have the opportunity to participate in other writing and literacy events. We'll keep this list updated as we find new events for students to engage in. Check back often for new contests.
Sarah Mook Poetry Contest
The Sarah Mook Poetry Contest purpose and focus is always the young poets and their poems. Cash prizes are awarded in four categories. Postmark deadline is March 31, 2025.
CONTEST GUIDELINES:
1. Enter up to two poems of the student's original work. Typed poems can be of any length, on any subject, and in any style.
2. Please include a separate cover sheet with the student's name, grade, school name and address (homeschoolers welcome) and the poem titles. The student's name, address, or school should not appear on the poems themselves.
Find out more details on their website.
Closed Writing Competitions
Utah Homeschooler Magazine Book Reviews
The Utah Homeschooler Magazine is looking for book review submissions. A book is always better when a friend recommends it, so now's your chance to tell other kids your age about your favorite book! All ages and reading levels accepted. The deadline is Friday, November 22. All submissions are entered to win a $25 Amazon gift card. You can find all of the information on their website.
Utah Homeschooler Magazine Writing Contest
The Utah Homeschooler Magazine just announced their next writing contest. Submissions are due November 22. It is a personal narrative essay on the theme: A Winter Memory. Cash prizes range between $30-$100 for winners. You can find out more details on their website.
Scholastic Writing Competition
Share your writing in the Scholastic Writing Competition for students in grades 7-12. There are multiple categories including Critical Essay, Dramatic Script, Flash Fiction, Journalism, Humor, Novel Writing, Personal Essay and Memoir, Poetry, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Short Story or a Writing Portfolio for graduating seniors. Prizes go up to $12,000 scholarships. Submissions are due by December 5. Entry instructions and all the details can be found here: https://www.artandwriting.org/awards/
Tiny Memoir Writing Contest
The New York Times invites teens to tell a true story about a meaningful life experience in 100 words. Entries are due December 4. You can find out all the details here (make sure to scroll to the bottom for the entry form).
National YoungArts Competition
Students ages 15–18, or grades 10–12, are encouraged to apply for the Young Arts Competition in the discipline of their choice–Classical Music, Dance, Design, Film, Jazz, Photography, Theater, Visual Arts, Voice, or Writing.
All applications are judged by esteemed discipline-specific panels of artists and award winners are offered a lifetime of artistic support and ongoing connection with an extraordinarily robust network of peers and mentors.
Get more information on the Young Arts website https://youngarts.org/competition/