Top Writing Contests For High School Students

Hey guys! Are you a high school student with a passion for writing? Do you dream of seeing your work recognized and maybe even winning some cool prizes? Well, you're in luck! There are tons of prestigious writing contests for high school students out there just waiting for you to showcase your talent. Let's dive into some of the best opportunities to get your writing noticed.

Why Participate in Writing Contests?

Before we jump into the list, let's talk about why you should even bother entering these contests. Seriously, what’s the big deal? First off, winning or even placing in a reputable writing contest can seriously boost your confidence. It's an awesome feeling to know that experienced judges appreciate your hard work and creativity. This recognition can motivate you to keep writing and improving your skills.

Beyond the ego boost, these contests look fantastic on college applications. Admissions officers are always looking for students who go above and beyond, and participating in writing contests shows that you're serious about your craft. It demonstrates initiative, dedication, and a willingness to put yourself out there. Plus, if you win, that's an extra shiny accomplishment to highlight!

Many contests also offer amazing prizes. We’re talking cash, scholarships, publication opportunities, and even trips to writing conferences. Imagine getting paid to do what you love or having your work published in a literary magazine! These prizes can significantly help fund your education or jumpstart your writing career. It’s like hitting the jackpot for writers.

Writing contests also provide valuable feedback. Some contests offer critiques or comments on your submissions, which can help you identify areas for improvement. Even if you don't win, the feedback can be incredibly useful for honing your skills and becoming a better writer. Think of it as free coaching from experienced writers and editors.

Finally, entering writing contests can expose you to a wider audience. Your work might be read by judges, other contestants, and even the general public if the contest publishes winning entries. This exposure can lead to new opportunities, connections, and recognition within the writing community. It’s a great way to get your name out there and build a platform for your writing.

Top Writing Contests for High School Students

Okay, now for the fun part! Here’s a rundown of some of the most prestigious writing contests for high school students that you should definitely check out:

1. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is probably the most well-known and respected writing competition for high school students. This contest has been around for nearly a century and has recognized some of the biggest names in literature and art, including Truman Capote, Sylvia Plath, and Andy Warhol. Talk about impressive company!

The Scholastic Awards accept submissions in a wide range of categories, including poetry, short stories, essays, journalism, and dramatic scripts. You can submit multiple pieces, and entries are judged based on originality, technical skill, and personal voice. The awards are given at the regional and national levels, with national winners receiving gold medals, scholarships, and opportunities to have their work published or exhibited.

Winning a Scholastic Award is a huge accomplishment that can significantly boost your college applications and open doors to future opportunities. The competition is fierce, but the recognition is well worth the effort. Plus, just participating can help you improve your writing and gain valuable experience.

2. The National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) Achievement Awards in Writing

The NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing is another highly regarded competition that recognizes outstanding writing by high school students. This contest is sponsored by the National Council of Teachers of English, a professional organization for English teachers. The awards are designed to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional writing skills and a strong command of language.

To enter the NCTE Achievement Awards, you'll need to submit a portfolio of your best writing, including both analytical and creative pieces. The portfolio should showcase your ability to write effectively in different genres and for different audiences. Entries are judged based on clarity, organization, and overall quality of writing.

Winners of the NCTE Achievement Awards receive certificates of recognition and are honored at a national awards ceremony. The awards are also highly regarded by college admissions officers, who see them as a sign of exceptional writing ability. If you're a strong writer with a diverse portfolio, this contest is definitely worth considering.

3. The YoungArts Competition

YoungArts is a national organization that supports young artists in various disciplines, including writing. The YoungArts Competition is open to high school students in grades 10-12 and offers awards in ten artistic categories, including creative writing. If you're serious about pursuing a career in the arts, this is a competition you don't want to miss.

The YoungArts Competition is highly competitive, but the rewards are substantial. Winners receive cash prizes, scholarships, and opportunities to participate in master classes and workshops with renowned artists. They also become part of the YoungArts network, which provides ongoing support and resources for young artists.

To apply for the YoungArts Competition, you'll need to submit a portfolio of your best writing, along with an application form and supporting materials. Entries are judged based on originality, technical skill, and artistic vision. If you're a talented and dedicated writer, YoungArts can provide you with the resources and support you need to reach your full potential.

4. The Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest

For all you environmentally conscious writers out there, the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest is a fantastic opportunity to combine your love of writing with your passion for protecting the ocean. This contest challenges students to create art and writing that raises awareness about marine conservation issues.

The Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest accepts submissions in a variety of categories, including poetry, prose, film, and visual art. Entries should address a specific ocean conservation issue and offer creative solutions or insights. The contest offers cash prizes and scholarships, and winning entries are featured on the Bow Seat website and in other publications.

This contest is a great way to use your writing skills to make a difference in the world. By raising awareness about ocean conservation issues, you can help protect our oceans and inspire others to take action. If you're passionate about the environment and have a talent for writing, the Bow Seat Ocean Awareness Contest is the perfect opportunity to showcase your skills and make a positive impact.

5. The Adroit Prizes for Poetry and Prose

The Adroit Prizes for Poetry and Prose are awarded annually by The Adroit Journal, a highly respected literary magazine for young writers. These prizes recognize exceptional work by high school and college students and offer a platform for emerging writers to showcase their talent. If you're serious about pursuing a career in writing, winning an Adroit Prize can be a significant boost to your resume.

The Adroit Prizes are awarded in two categories: poetry and prose. Entries are judged by a panel of established writers and editors, and winners receive cash prizes and publication in The Adroit Journal. The competition is fierce, but the recognition is well worth the effort. Plus, just submitting your work can help you gain valuable experience and feedback.

To apply for the Adroit Prizes, you'll need to submit a manuscript of your best poetry or prose, along with an application form and supporting materials. Entries are judged based on originality, technical skill, and overall quality of writing. If you're a talented and dedicated writer, the Adroit Prizes can provide you with the recognition and exposure you need to take your career to the next level.

Tips for Entering Writing Contests

Okay, so you're ready to jump in and start submitting your work. Awesome! But before you do, here are a few tips to help you increase your chances of winning:

• Read the guidelines carefully: This might seem obvious, but it's super important. Make sure you understand the rules, requirements, and eligibility criteria for each contest before you submit your work. Ignoring the guidelines can lead to disqualification, even if your writing is amazing.
• Choose your best work: Don't just submit anything you've written. Select the pieces that you're most proud of and that you think showcase your skills and talent. Quality over quantity, always.
• Proofread, proofread, proofread: Nothing screams amateur like typos and grammatical errors. Before you submit your work, have someone else proofread it for you. A fresh pair of eyes can catch mistakes that you might have missed.
• Get feedback: Ask your teachers, friends, or family members to read your work and give you feedback. Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and make your writing even stronger.
• Don't be afraid to revise: Writing is a process, and revision is a crucial part of that process. Be willing to revise your work based on feedback and your own critical assessment. The more you polish your writing, the better it will be.
• Submit early: Don't wait until the last minute to submit your work. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare your submission and avoid any last-minute stress.
• Don't get discouraged: Not everyone can win, and that's okay. If you don't win, don't get discouraged. Use the experience as an opportunity to learn and grow as a writer. Keep writing, keep submitting, and keep improving.

Get Writing!

So, there you have it – a rundown of some of the most prestigious writing contests for high school students. These contests offer incredible opportunities to showcase your talent, win prizes, and gain recognition for your work. So what are you waiting for? Get writing and start submitting! Good luck, and remember to have fun with it. Writing should be a joy, so embrace the process and let your creativity shine!