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Writing Contests for Students in Grades K-9 

Testimonioal story, trusted by over 59,000 schools, find out why teachers and parents love us.

It is an honor to work with you. The pride our students share is unbelievable when it comes to their writing. It is a great way to turn them on to poetry, self-expression, and social studies. We thank you.

Thanks again for your wonderful competition. Over many years, I have seen kids grow in their enthusiasm for writing. Fantastic! Today, 39 of our students walked out the door feeling like champions!

Wow! We do several different poetry exercises and projects throughout the year and I have found that the experience of working with your contest helps create extra student enthusiasm for their work and our various topics.

We were also very pleased to be named one of the schools to receive a Poetic Achievement Award. Thank you for sponsoring this poetry contest. It allowed our student poets the opportunity to see that they can, and do write for a real audience.

I want to thank you. Your contest will boost self-confidence, especially for those students who do not play sports. I hope we can continue to contribute to your book. My students are thrilled to see their work in such a wonderful publication! Thank you for your efforts.

This contest is an excellent tool for motivation and stimulates an appreciation for poetry. It has proven to be a self-esteem booster for my students and stirs a sense of energy I have found hard to generate from regular instruction in the classroom. My students have found a purpose for writing, and I have you to thank for creating such an opportunity.

Thank you for conducting this contest. Knowing that their poems will be published has given these students a feeling of success. Since they are all Title I reading students who have difficulty with reading and writing anyway, your recognition of their literary talents has been especially meaningful to them.

I would like to say thank you for your wonderful contest. I can't tell you how excited this year's students were to submit their work. When we presented our poems at our Author's Tea, the parents were very pleased. Presenting your poem and then having it published, is a wonderful way to start the school year.

Thank you for offering the contest/anthology for young writers. In this world of video games, virtual reality, and other technological hooplah, it is nice to have a group such as you who still value the written word! So many high school students love to write poetry and I think it is wonderful to provide a vehicle through which to showcase their work.

Your company is doing a great thing for our youth! Writing down thoughts and feelings is a way to express what's inside and very healthy! I pray for all of you to receive a blessing for the kindness and generosity toward our family. Creative Communication is the "real thing!" They deliver a wonderful anthology jammed with the words of our youth - BRAVO!

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We support education, students awards, school awards.

For the past 20 years we have awarded over 2 million dollars in cash prizes, school supplies and free books. You and your students can share in the rewards by entering our writing competitions. We have writing contests for elementary school students and middle school students.

It is our goal to help your student find their creative competition through expressing their thoughts and feelings with the power of writing. Our writing contests are open to the U.S. and are broken down by grade divisions. Enter your students today in one of our many contests for their works of poetry.

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Best Poetry Writing Contests in 2024

Showing 136 contests that match your search.

Fiction Factory Poetry Competition

Fiction Factory

Genres: Poetry

This is a UK based competition but we welcome international entries. Poets are invited to enter poems (maximum 40 lines excluding title) on any theme. Discounts are offered on multiple entries. Besides the cash prize, our judge, poet and author and mentor, Helen Cox, will offer feedback on five of the winner's poems plus an hour-long mentorship zoom call about their poetry.

Additional prizes:

Feedback on poems, a Zoom mentorship call, and publication

💰 Entry fee: $6

📅 Deadline: October 31, 2023 (Expired)

Jane Martin Poetry Prize

Girton College

The Jane Martin Poetry Prize is a national poetry competition, established in 2010, in memory of Girton alumna, Jane Elizabeth Martin (1978 Classics) through the generous support of Professor Sir Laurence Martin. Now in its 14th year, this national prize for young poets is a key part of the College’s support for poetry and will be of interest to all those who are serious about literary excellence. The competition is judged by experts drawn from across the literary world and academia. We are thrilled that this year the panel will be led by two judges – Abigail Parry and Bohdan Piasecki.

📅 Deadline: March 15, 2024 (Expired)

Indiana Review Poetry Prize

Indiana Review

For our Poetry Prize, send no more than three poems in a single document. The winner will be awarded $1000 and publication in an upcoming issue of Indiana Review. This year's contest will be judged by Oliver Baez Bendorf.

Publication

💰 Entry fee: $20

📅 Deadline: March 31, 2024 (Expired)

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Rigel 2024: $500 for Prose, Poetry, Art, or Graphic Novel

Sunspot Literary Journal

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Memoir, Non-fiction, Novel, Novella, Poetry, Script Writing, and Short Story

Literary or genre works accepted. Winner receives $500 plus publication, while runners-up and finalists are offered publication. No restrictions on theme or category. Closes: February 29. Entry fee: $12.50. Enter as many times as you like through Submittable or Duotrope

$500 + publication

Runners-up and finalists are offered publication

💰 Entry fee: $12

📅 Deadline: February 29, 2024 (Expired)

Ambroggio Prize

Academy of American Poets

The Ambroggio Prize is a $1,000 publication prize given for a book-length poetry manuscript originally written in Spanish and with an English translation. The winning manuscript is published by Bilingual Press/Editorial Bilingüe, publisher of literary works, scholarship, and art books by or about U.S. Hispanics.

Publication by Bilingual Press

📅 Deadline: February 15, 2024 (Expired)

NOWW 26th International Writing Contest

Northwestern Ontario Writers Workshop (NOWW)

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

Open to all writers in four categories: poetry, short fiction, creative nonfiction, and critical writing.

2nd: $100 | 3rd: $50

💰 Entry fee: $7

One Line Poem Contest

FanStory.com Inc.

Share a one line poem to enter this poetry contest. Cash prize to the winner. How creative can you get with one line to work with.

💰 Entry fee: $10

📅 Deadline: July 07, 2022 (Expired)

Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award

Killer Nashville

Genres: Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novel, Poetry, Science Fiction, Script Writing, Short Story, and Thriller

The Killer Nashville Silver Falchion Award is committed to discovering new writers, as well as superlative books by established authors and, upon discovery, sharing those writers and their works with new readers. There are a large number of both fiction and non-fiction categories you can enter.

💰 Entry fee: $79

📅 Deadline: June 15, 2024

The One Page Poetry Contest

One Page Poetry

One Page Poetry is dedicated to the art of expressing a poetic theme on a single page, whether your poem is four lines or forty, whether yours is a love poem, inspirational poem, philosophical poem, or just one that is fun or whimsical. We welcome any and all poetic forms, as long as they fit on a single page.

2nd: $1000 | 3rd: $500

💰 Entry fee: $25

📅 Deadline: September 30, 2024

TCK Publishing Poetry Awards Contest

TCK Publishing

The TCK Publishing Poetry Awards Contest is an international poetry contest established in 2021. Each year’s prizewinner receives a $1,000 honorarium and publication of his or her poem on the TCK Publishing website. This contest is open to writers from all countries, backgrounds, and walks of life. Each submission may include up to five poems totaling no more than 500 words.

Publication on TCK Website

💰 Entry fee: $5

📅 Deadline: June 30, 2024

Acrostic Poetry Contest

To enter this poetry contest share an acrostic. That's a poem where the first letter of each line spells out a word (downwards). Cash Prize

📅 Deadline: October 16, 2022 (Expired)

South Warwickshire Literary Festival Writing Competition

South Warwickshire Literary Festival

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

Fiction and Creative Non-Fiction 800 words, Poetry 40 lines, any genre any style. Over 16s only

Read entry at literary festival, September 2024 UK

📅 Deadline: March 29, 2024 (Expired)

Minds Shine Bright Writing Competition

Minds Shine Bright

Genres: Fiction, Flash Fiction, Poetry, Script Writing, and Short Story

Minds Shine Bright is an arts business based in Melbourne Australia committed to supporting the arts and writers. We run two fiction writing competitions; Minds Shine Bright Confidence, a longitudinal look at the theme confidence in fiction and poetry, and Seasons a competition with a changing external theme. Light and Shadow is currently open.

2nd: $400 AUD | 3rd: $300 AUD | 4th: $200 AUD | Commended entries: $100 AUD

💰 Entry fee: $3

Francine Ringold Awards for New Writers

University of Tulsa

Genres: Fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

The Francine Ringold Awards for New Writers honor the work of writers at the beginning of their careers. $500 prizes will be awarded in both the fiction and poetry categories, and the winning manuscripts will appear in the spring issue of Nimrod. Winners will have the chance to work with the Nimrod board of editors to refine and edit their manuscripts before publication.

📅 Deadline: July 15, 2024

Rhina Espaillat Poetry Award

Plough Publishing

This award honors the achievements of the great Dominican-American poet, translator, and public school teacher Rhina Polonia Espaillat. The Rhina Espaillat Poetry Award will be awarded for an original poem of not more than fifty lines that reflects her lyricism, empathy, and ability to find grace in everyday events of life.

Publication in Plough Quarterly. Two finalists will receive $250

📅 Deadline: March 30, 2024 (Expired)

Love Poem Poetry Contest

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.

📅 Deadline: June 30, 2022 (Expired)

Kinsman Poetry Slam

Kinsman Avenue Publishing, Inc

Poetry entries wanted for the upcoming collection, SLAM! Up to $300 in cash prizes. We are looking for captivating rhythm, form, hard-hitting themes of culture, resilience, passion, and justice. BIPOC Poets are encouraged to submit. Entries should have unpredictable patterns of rhyme and explore free verse and playfulness with language.

Publication in Kinsman Quarterly and the "SLAM" anthology.

📅 Deadline: April 30, 2024

Autumn House Poetry Contest

Autumn House Press

For the 2023 contest, the Autumn House staff as well as select outsider readers serve as the preliminary readers, and the final judge is Toi Derricotte. The winner receives publication of a full-length manuscript and $2,500.

Book publication | $1,000 honorarium | $1,500 travel/publicity grant

💰 Entry fee: $30

ABC Poetry Contest

Write an ABC Poem. That's a poem with five lines that follows the alphabet. Cash prize!

📅 Deadline: June 11, 2022 (Expired)

Adrienne Rich Award for Poetry

Beloit Poetry Journal

We’re open to a wide range of forms and styles in contemporary poetry. We’re always watching for new poets, quickened language, and work that offers a fresh purchase on the political or social landscape.

💰 Entry fee: $15

Indignor Play House Annual Short Story Competition

Indignor House Publishing

Genres: Fiction, Flash Fiction, Short Story, Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novella, Poetry, Romance, Science Fiction, Thriller, and Young Adult

Indignor House Publishing is proud to announce that our annual writing competition (INDIGNOR PLAYHOUSE Short Story Annual Competition) is officially open with expected publication in the fall of 2024. Up to 25 submissions will be accepted for inclusion in the annual anthology.

2nd: $250 | 3rd: $150

📅 Deadline: March 01, 2024 (Expired)

New Deal Writing Competition

New Deal Museum

Genres: Christian, Crime, Fantasy, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Horror, Humor, LGBTQ, Mystery, Novel, Novella, Poetry, Romance, Science Fiction, Short Story, Thriller, and Travel

GVCA is excited to announce the ninth annual New Deal Writing Competition! This competition challenges writers to use a painting chosen by the staff at GVCA as inspiration for a short story. This year’s painting is “Playtime” by Fred Ross.

Publication in newsletter

F(r)iction Poetry 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.

The Peseroff Prize

Breakwater Review

Submit up to three poems and a $10 entry fee. There are no restrictions on content or form: it 's all poetry. Poems should be previously unpublished. The winner and finalists will be published in Breakwater Review.

Publication in spring issue

📅 Deadline: May 01, 2024

New Writers Poetry Competition 2023

New Writers

The New Writers Poetry Competition 2023 is open to published and unpublished poets from around the world. There is no specific theme but poems should be no longer than 40 lines. NewWriters.org.uk will donate £1.00 from each entry to First Story (a creative writing charity in the UK).

2nd: £300 | 3rd: £200

💰 Entry fee: $13

📅 Deadline: July 12, 2023 (Expired)

The Loraine Williams Poetry Prize

The Georgia Review

The Loraine Williams Poetry Prize is an award for a single poem, to be published in The Georgia Review. The winner will receive an honorarium of $1,500 and an expenses-paid trip to Athens, Georgia, to give a public reading with the judge. We are pleased to announce that Hanif Abdurraqib will serve as the final judge for the 2023 Loraine Williams Poetry Prize.

Expenses-paid trip to Athens, Georgia

📅 Deadline: May 15, 2024

Muriel Craft Bailey Poetry Contest

The Comstock Review

Here 's how it works: our editorial staff chooses approximately fifty to sixty finalists. The highest scoring finalists (25 or so) are considered Special Merit poems. Special Merit poems go to the judge. The judge determines the top three prize winners. The entire editorial staff then selects the Honorable Mentions from the remaining Special Merits.

Publication by The Comstock Review

The Elmbridge Literary Competition 2023-24

The R C Sherriff Trust

"Reputation is an idle and most false imposition, oft got without merit and lost without deserving." - William Shakespeare For some, it is a lifetime’s pursuit, often slipping through their grasp while others see it fall into their hands by mere chance. However achieved, through talent or luck, Fame can be an ill-fated prize. The 19th Elmbridge Literary Competition, run in partnership by The R C Sherriff Trust and Elmbridge Borough Council, is looking for short stories and poems on the theme of the double-edged sword that is ‘FAME’.

Published chapbook

📅 Deadline: February 23, 2024 (Expired)

Work-In-Progress (WIP) Contest

Unleash Press

Genres: Crime, Essay, Fantasy, Fiction, Horror, Humor, Memoir, Mystery, Non-fiction, Novel, Novella, Poetry, Science Fiction, Science Writing, and Young Adult

We aim to assist writers in the completion of an important literary project and vision. The Unleash WIP Award offers writers support in the amount of $500 to supplement costs to aid in the completion of a book-length work of fiction, nonfiction, or poetry. Writers will also receive editorial feedback, coaching meetings, and an excerpt/interview feature in Unleash Lit.

Coaching, interview, and editorial support

💰 Entry fee: $35

Self-Publishing Literary Awards

Black Caucus

Genres: Fiction, Non-fiction, Novel, and Poetry

Through this contest, the BCALA honors the best self-published ebooks by an African American author in the U.S. in both fiction and poetry genres. These awards acknowledge outstanding achievement in the presentation of the cultural, historical and sociopolitical aspects of the Black Diaspora. The purpose is to encourage the artistic expression of the African American experience via literature and scholarly research including biographical, historical, and social history treatments by African Americans.

Geminga: $250 for Tiny Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, or Art

Sunspot Lit

Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Memoir, Non-fiction, Poetry, Script Writing, Short Story, and Novella

Geminga is a neutron star so small it was difficult to detect. With Geminga: $500 for Tiny Fiction, Nonfiction, Poetry, or Art, Sunspot Lit honors the power of the small. No restrictions on theme or category. Word limit is 100 for fiction and nonfiction. Micropoetry is limited to 140 characters. Graphic novels should be 4 pages or less.

Publication in digital and print

📅 Deadline: January 31, 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.

💰 Entry fee: $28

📅 Deadline: June 16, 2024

Narrative Prize

Narrative Magazine

The Narrative Prize is awarded annually for the best short story, novel excerpt, poem, one-act play, graphic story, or work of literary nonfiction published by a new or emerging writer in Narrative. The submission system is open all year.

💰 Entry fee: $27

African Diaspora Awards 2024

Genres: Essay, Fiction, Flash Fiction, Non-fiction, Poetry, and Short Story

Up to $1000 in cash prizes for the African Diaspora Award 2024. African-themed prose and poetry wanted. Top finalists are published in Kinsman Quarterly’s magazine and the anthology, “Black Butterfly: Voices of the African Diaspora.”

Publication in anthology, "Black Butterfly: Voices of the African Diaspora" and print and digital magazine

The Pinch Literary Awards & Page Prize

The Pinch Literary Journal

Genres: Fiction, Poetry, Short Story, and Non-fiction

The 2023 Pinch Literary Awards accepts poetry and fiction. The 2023 Page Prize accepts non-fiction.

$2000 for poetry & fiction winners

$1000 for Page Prize winner

Related Resources:

• Types of Poems: 15 Poetry Forms You Need to Know  (blog post)
• How to Write a Poem: Get Tips from a Published Poet (blog post)
• How to Publish a Poem: 3 Ways to Get Your Work in Front of Readers (blog post)
• Poetry Submissions: Top Places To Submit Your Poems (blog post)
• How to Publish a Poetry Book: Immortalizing Your Verse (blog post)
• How Creative Poetry Book Layouts Can Elevate Your Verse (blog post)
• What is Blackout Poetry? The Ultimate Guide to Erasure Verse (blog post)
• What is a Haiku? Japan’s Beloved Poetry Format, Explained (blog post)
• What is a Chapbook? (And Should You Publish One?) (blog post)

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Poetry Contests

Monthly poem challenges offer fun competition throughout the year and are judged by you, the poets! Each month we will post a new challenge asking you to write and submit a poem based on a theme or style of poetry.

Don’t forget to review the contest rules for more detailed information about submissions. Also, read the guidelines for poetry rating to get an idea of what our judges look for in a winning poem!

National Amateur Poetry Competition

The National Amateur Poetry Competition is now accepting entries for our next contest. We encourage new and previously unpublished poets to participate. All qualified entries will receive notification of acceptance within a few weeks.

The Poetry Nation Monthly Contest

Latest collections.

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Created by Willow Ann Fox

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What does it take to win.

Our winners’ backgrounds are as varied as the poems they enter. There is no set topic or style most likely to win. More than anything, prize-winning poems employ a number of poetic devices, including figurative language, vivid imagery, personification, alliteration, and irony, just to name a few. Poems describing everyday topics in creative, uncommon, and thought-provoking ways often grab our judges’ attention.

Contest Articles

To read more about previous contest winners, check out our contest articles under the News tab.

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How to Enter a Poetry Contest

Share your work with the world (and win prizes!) by learning how to submit your best poems to poetry competitions.

There are lots of great reasons to enter poetry contests. A contest gives you a goal and deadline, so it may motivate you to finish a poem and make it the best it can be. Sometimes judges provide feedback to contestants, so you might receive constructive criticism that can help you improve your craft.

If you win, the organization may publish your work and make it available to a wide audience (bonus: instant fame!). Plus, you could win prizes that are worth up to thousands of dollars. Entering a poetry contest is fairly simple—all you have to do is follow these steps.

• Find the right poetry contest for you . Pssst. PowerPoetry offers digital scholarships for posting a poem to our site (you don't even need to get out of bed to enter our slam contests!) Like PowerPoetry, Poets.org knows just how tough school is, and that paying for tuition can be even more difficult. That's why they offer awards between $1k and $25k to poets demonstrating artistic excellence. 
• Read the contest guidelines . Sure, it’s tempting to skip reading the fine print—snooze alert!—but it’s important to learn how to enter a poetry contest so you don’t get disqualified. For example the guidelines may request that you send the poem in a specific way (i.e. by mail along with a self-addressed stamped envelope, by email as an attachment, or through a form on a website). Pay attention to the details so you can find a contest that suits your style of poetry. The guidelines may ask for a certain form of poetry (i.e. haiku, sonnet, free verse) or they may ask for poems about a particular topic (i.e. nature, people, school).
• Write and revise your poem . Once you know what kind of poem contest organizers are looking for, write up a first draft well before the deadline—you’ll want to leave some time for revisions. Ask a mentor whose opinion you value (such as a friend, sibling, neighbor, teacher, or parent) to read your poem and offer feedback. Ask the person what he or she thought the poem was about to see if it matches your intention. Then ask if he or she can think of ways to make the poem even stronger. Once you feel like the poem is the best that it can possibly be, submit it and cross your fingers!
• Keep your head held high . No matter what happens, entering poetry contests can only make you a better writer. If you lose the contest, read the winner’s poem and see what you can learn. Remember, there will always be more contests. It’s probably going to take some time to write critically acclaimed poems, so don’t get discouraged. If you’re patient and keep working on your craft, you’re bound to eventually wow readers and win prizes from poetry contests!

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17 Poetry Contests to Enter in 2024

Discover our up-to-date guide with the best poetry contests to enter in 2024!

Many organizations across the globe reward cash prizes, publication rights, and more to poets who wow their judges. If you want to publish your poetry , these are some of the top poetry contests to pursue. Before learning about the different competitions, why not familiarize yourself with the  different types of poems ?

1. The Pushcart Prize

2. joy bale boon poetry prize, 3. minds on fire open book prize, 4. twfest poetry content, 5. mono. poetry prize 2023, 6. robert and adele schiff awards, 7. maine artist fellowship, 8. bellevue literary review prizes, 9. kingsley tufts poetry award, 10. los angeles review literary award, 11. the letter review prize for poetry, 12. barrow street press prose book award, 13. new writers awards, 14. akron poetry prize, 15. 42 miles poetry award, 16. townson university prize for literature, 17. chapbook contest, what are the most prestigious poetry contests, should i submit to poetry contests.

Deadline: December 1, 2023

Entry fee: $0

Prize: Publication in  The Pushcart Prize: Best of Small Presses

The Pushcart Prize  is one of the most prestigious awards in the literary world. Each year, the prize is given for works of poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction by literary magazines or small presses. Editors can nominate up to six poems, short stories, novel chapters, or essays published this year. There is no entry fee and no published cash prize. However, winning this award ensures that writers will experience recognition in the literary world for their talents.

Deadline: November 15, 2023

Entry fee: $10

Prize: $750

Poets and writers can submit 1-3 poems of any style to   The Heartland Review Press poetry contest. All submissions must include a cover letter and author bio of 30-40 words. First place wins $750 and will be published in the Spring 2024 issues of The Heartland Review. Joy Bale Boone was an American poet who served on many committees and boards to encourage as many people as possible to experience the arts. This prize is dedicated in her honor to encourage creative writing, expression, and passion for arts.

Deadline: November 3, 2023.

Entry fee: $25

Prize: $1,500

Conduit Publishing  runs an annual open poetry contest to represent the best contemporary writing in high-quality editions. Entrants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with  Conduit,  which states they found themselves on “originality, intelligence, irreverence, and humanity.” 

This is an anonymous competition, so the author’s name should be omitted from the work. This competition is ideal for passionate and creative writers looking to build a career in writing. The winning poet will receive $1,500 and 30 author copies. 

Deadline: October 15, 2023

Entry Fee: $15

Prize: $1000

Tennesee Williams & New Orleans Literary Festival  hosts an annual competition for 2-4 unpublished, original poems of any style, with a combined length of 400 lines. This contest is only open to emerging writers who have not published a book of poetry. However, poets and writers who have published a book in another genre are still eligible.

Deadline: August 1, 2023

Entry Fee: £6

Prize: £650

The  MONO. Poetry Prize  is judged by Instagram poet Black Uden. This contest is UK based and focuses on short-form poetry such as Haikus, Sonnets, Tankas, Acrostics, Limericks, and other poems of up to 14 lines. The theme for this year is “BEAT,” which is open to interpretation. Entrants are encouraged to be creative with their work and think about the theme in detail. Poets can enter up to five poems for £6 each.

Deadline: July 15, 2023

Entry Fee: $20

Prize: $1,000

The  Cincinnati Review   offers three $1000 prizes and a publication in their publication for a poem, short story, and essay. This poetry competition is judged by Rebecca Lindenber – an acclaimed poet, author, and poetry editor of the  Cincinnati Review.  There is a $20 entry fee for submission, and our poem must be submitted using their online system. Competitors can submit up to eight pages of poetry by July 15, and all entries are considered for publication.

Deadline: July 6, 2023

Entry Fee: $0

Prize: Up to $5000

The Maine Artist Fellowship writing competition allows local residents to apply for a fellowship award. This is potentially a very lucrative writing contest. The online submission system allows applicants to enter up to five poems of any word count or not more than 20 pages of prose, an artist statement, and a resume. Each award will be assessed individually, and the prize awarded will be based on the judge’s decision. There are a few submission guidelines and requirements for applying; click  here to view the full list :

•  The applicant must have resided in Maine for a minimum of one year.
•  The applicant must be 25 years of age or older.
• The applicant must have a Maine Arts Commission account.

Deadline: July 1, 2023

Entry fee: $20

The  Bellevue Literary Review Prize  awards young poets who create work related to the themes of health, healing, illness, the mind, and the body. Winners are published in the Spring 2024 issue of the  BLR   and receive a $1000 cash prize. Honorable mention is awarded $300. Poetry entries are encouraged to be written vividly with a strong narrative. Entrants are encouraged to read through the  BLR  archives to get a feel for the ethos and values they hold. All poetry contest submissions must be previously unpublished.

Prize: $100,000

The  Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award  is an annual poetry contest open to mid-career US poets & writers. The generous cash prize is given to encourage poets to have the freedom to dedicate a year to writing their next book and honing their craft without having to worry about paying bills. The winner of this literary award also spends an open week in the residence of Claremont Graduate University in California. Poets & writers are asked to submit eight copies of a poetry collection published between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, along with a list of previously published work.

Deadline: June 30, 2023

Los Angeles Review   awards four first-place-winning writers a $1000 prize for the annual literary competition. Using their online submission, poets can submit up to three poems of no more than 50 lines each. First place will also be published in the new  LAR  Online and included in the annual best-of-print edition. Only previously unpublished poems are considered for this award.

Entry fee: $15

Prize: $400

The Letter Review Prize for Poetry  is open worldwide to poets. This inclusive competition encourages a range of genres and writing styles. This particular competition asks poets to submit poems of up to 70 lines and encourages passionate, creative writing to be used. Poets must include a short biography with their submission and can enter as many times as they wish. AI content is not allowed, and entrants must be the sole author of the work entered in this competition. Runners-up also receive a prize, with second place receiving $250 and third place receiving $150.

Entry Fee: $25

Barrow Street’s 2023 Poetry Book Prize  has an annual poetry collection prize of $1500 that will be awarded to the first-place winner. Writers and poets must submit a manuscript or book of poetry of 50 to 80 pages to be judged. The poetry must be in English and include a table of contents and an acknowledgment of any previously published poems. The submissions must be anonymous, with no markings of the poet’s name or other identifying markers appearing on the manuscript.

Deadline: June 25, 2023

Prize: $500

Great Lakes Colleges Association  hosts an annual book prize competition for poets, fiction writers, and creative nonfiction writers. GLCA awards three prizes, one prize for each category, and each winner will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to several of the GLCA colleges, they also receive a prize of $500, as well as give readings at the college, meet students, and lead discussions and classes. Books published in 2022 and 2023 are eligible for this book prize, and there is no entry fee. Publishers can submit four copies of one book in each category postmarked by June 25.

Deadline: June 15, 2023

Prize: $1500

The University of Akron Presson  awards a first-place prize of $1500 for an English poetry manuscript of at least 48 pages and no longer than 90. Manuscripts must be submitted using the online portal, and all entries need to adhere to the guidelines available on their website. Online unpublished works are eligible, but individual posts that may have appeared in literary magazines are acceptable. As well as winning the cash prize, the first-place winner’s book will be published as a part of the Akron Series in Poetry .

42 Miles Press  hosts an annual competition with a $1000 cash prize for first place. The winner is also given a publication by 42 Miles Press and 50 author copies. Poets are asked to submit a manuscript of 49 to 120 pages using the online submission form. The competition encourages contemporary American poetry and asks poets to tap into their creative side when creating their manuscripts.

Townson University  hosts an annual literary prize for a poetry, fiction, or creative nonfiction book. Books published within the past three years or scheduled for publication in 2023 are eligible. Publishers, institutions, or individuals can submit three copies of a book or manuscript. It’s important to note that only residents of Maryland who have lived in the state for at least three years can apply.

Deadline: June 13, 2023

Entry fee: $30

Omnidawn Publishing  hosts an annual poetry competition awarding first-prize $1000 and publication with 20 author copies. Manuscripts must be in English, and editors encourage a wide range of styles, forms, diversities, and aesthetics (for example: prose, haiku, lyric, and experimental verse). Previous winners have been reviewed in major print publications such as  The Los Angeles Revie of Books, Colorado Review, Publishers Weekly,  and more.

FAQs About Poetry Contests

Poetry Competitions for newcomers to the writing industry can take a lot of work to find. However, some examples include the Montreal International Poetry Prize, the Kate Tufts Discovery Award, the Walt Whitman Award, and the Dylan Thomas International Poetry Award. Prizes range from $2,000-$10,000, depending on whether a single poem or collection of poetry is submitted.

Before entering a poetry contest, it is wise to consider if you are entering for fun or for professional purposes. Contests can be a good way to meet other poets and improve your craft, but several contests have a submission fee for entry, so be careful not to spend more on contests than you can realistically make from poetry, especially since contests are not a guaranteed way to get published.

Looking for more? Check out our guide on “ What is meter in poetry? ”

Meet Rachael, the editor at Become a Writer Today. With years of experience in the field, she is passionate about language and dedicated to producing high-quality content that engages and informs readers. When she's not editing or writing, you can find her exploring the great outdoors, finding inspiration for her next project.

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10 Paid Poetry Contests (And How to Enter Your Poem to Win!)

• October 6, 2023

Table of Contents:

Poetry contests, tips before you submit for the contest , read for guidelines , tailor your poem, originality must be present. , never underestimate proofreading , top 10 paid poetry contests, the national poetry competition.

• The Poetry Foundation's Annual Contest

The Walt Whitman Award

The forward poetry prize, the rattle poetry prize, the moth poetry prize, the bridport prize, the pushcart prize, the griffin poetry prize, the oxford brookes international poetry competition, common contest themes and styles, main attributes and elaborate information.

Have you ever penned down your feelings in the form of a poem? 

Ever thought about sharing it with the world? 

Well, Poetry Contests might be the perfect way for you. 

Not only do they offer a chance for your voice to be heard, but they also can give you a chance to earn some money for your creative efforts. 

Let’s get into Poetry Contests , where your words can shine and reward you in many ways!

Poetry Contests are more than just competitions. They play a key role in a poet’s journey. For starters, they offer budding poets a platform. Think of it as a stage where your words can dance in front of an eager audience. Additionally, these contests can act as a confidence booster for someone just dipping their toes into the world of poetry. When your work is recognized, even a small nod can mean the world. To discover more about the impact of Poetry Contests on poets, check out this post on overcoming a challenge and what you learned as a result .

Moreover, these contests can act as a confidence booster for someone just dipping their toes into the world of poetry. When your work is recognized, even a small nod can mean the world. Learn more about boosting your confidence in the world of writing with this post on aesthetic quotes for Instagram .

Plus, it’s not just about the fame or money. Participating can lead to your work catching the eyes of publishers or seasoned poets. This can open doors you never knew existed!

Every time you enter a contest, you reach new audiences. Readers can resonate with your words, forging an emotional connection. That’s the magic of poetry. . For more insights into how Poetry Contests can boost your poetic journey, explore this post on writing a historical book .

So, you’ve decided to give Poetry Contests a try. Great decision! But before you click that ‘submit’ button, here are some simple yet important tips to remember. To explore tips for submitting to Poetry Contests and ensuring your work stands out, check out this post on fantasy and sci-fi books .

But before you click that ‘submit’ button, here are some simple yet important tips to remember.

First and foremost, read the guidelines. It sounds basic, but you’d be surprised how many overlook this step. Each contest will have its own set of rules. Some might ask for a certain theme or a specific style. Ensure you align your poem with these requirements.

Next, tailor your poem if needed. If a contest has a theme, like “springtime” or “memories,” your poem should reflect that. It’s like fitting a puzzle piece in its right place.

Originality is king. Always submit work that is uniquely yours. Copying someone else’s work is a big no-no. Remember, judges have a keen eye and can usually spot a piece that’s not genuine.

Lastly, give your poem a once-over. Check for typos, grammar, and flow. It’s like dressing up for an important event – your poem should be in its best form when presented.

Alright, now to the main and fun part! 

Here’s a list of some top-notch Poetry Contests suggested by the American Author House where not only can your work be celebrated, but you can also earn some cash prizes. 

(While these are well-known contests, always check their official websites for the most up-to-date information.)

A prestigious contest recognized internationally. Winning here is not just about the cash; it’s about the honor and exposure in the poetry community.

The Poetry Foundation’s Annual Contest

An opportunity for poets to get their work featured by one of the most esteemed poetry organizations. Plus, the cash prizes are quite generous.

This contest is named after the legendary poet. This award seeks to find voices that resonate deeply. Apart from money, winners often enjoy publication opportunities.

Open to both budding and established poets, this contest boasts multiple categories. So, there’s something for everyone.

A favorite among many, mainly because of its attractive cash prize and the chance to get featured in Rattle, a highly regarded publication.

An international contest known for its rich history and substantial cash reward. Being recognized here can boost your poetic career immensely.

Offering separate categories for poems and short stories, the Bridport Prize has a broad appeal. The cash rewards are quite handsome.

Though not a conventional contest, being nominated and winning is an honor in the literary world. Plus, your work gets to be part of the prestigious Pushcart anthology.

One of the richest poetry awards in terms of cash prize. Beyond money, the recognition here can be a game-changer for poets.

This contest celebrates generosity in poetry and is open to poets from all corners of the world. And, of course, the cash prizes are a cherry on top!

As you invest more time in poetry, you’ll notice some common themes and styles. Understanding these can give your poems an edge. 

Themes : Love: A timeless topic, poems about love, in all its forms, never go out of style. From romantic love to the love between a parent and child, this theme has countless facets to learn about.

Nature : The beauty of the world around us, the changing seasons, the flora and fauna, nature provides endless inspiration for poets.

Memories: Nostalgia is powerful. Poems that transport readers back to a moment, a place, or a feeling can be incredibly moving.

Struggle and Triumph: Life is full of ups and downs. Poems that tell stories of challenges faced and obstacles overcome resonate deeply with many.

Identity: Themes of self-discovery, cultural roots, and personal journeys are increasingly popular.

Styles Sonnets: A classic 14-line poem, often associated with love but can be adapted to any theme.

Haikus: Originating from Japan, these short, 3-line poems capture the essence of a moment. They’re great for nature themes.

Free Verse: Free verse poems give poets complete freedom without any specific rhyme or rhythm. They’re perfect for raw, emotional themes.

Narrative Poems: These tell a story, taking the reader on a journey from start to finish.

Acrostic: Poems where the first, last, or other letters in a line spell out a particular word or message.

Concluding 

Engaging in Poetry Contests is more than chasing accolades; it’s about growth, expression, and community. Whether celebrating a win or learning from a miss, each step shapes your poetic journey. Remember, every poem penned and shared adds depth to your voice. Embrace challenges, cherish achievements, and let your passion for words be the guiding star. The world awaits your verses; keep writing and keep shining.

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The Power of Poetry | Poetry Contest

Middle & high school.

An exciting way to engage young adults with poetry writing...

Use the power of poetry to inspire and engage your class..

What do your students care about? What makes them happy or frustrates them? What would they change? The Power of Poetry gives your students the opportunity to express themselves through verse. Poetry can be a safe space for difficult truths, exploring ideas or simply having fun. 

Use the FREE resources to help your students explore poetry techniques, word banks, poetic styles, and even spoken word. There's a lesson plan and accompanying PowerPoint, also available in Google Slides . Your students will learn the impact of words and this will help them write a powerful poem to share with the world on any theme/subject.

Download the graphic organizer to help your students plan their poems, and inspire them with The Power of Poetry today. It's their world, their words.

We are ready to listen.

Closing Date: March 29, 2024

To make sure your entries are valid, please follow the rules listed below:

Only one entry per student, there is no limit to the number of entries per school. Teachers please submit your entries altogether where possible.

Entries must be the students' own original work.

Poems can be submitted on the entry form or a letter-sized sheet of paper or typed (on a computer or using the Online Writing Portal)

Each student's name, age and school name should be included on their entry.

The theme is open.

US entrants only.

Free to enter

Copyright remains with the author.

If you are unsure on any rules or have any queries, please don't hesitate to Contact Us .

For Schools

The school that submits the best overall set of entries will win Young Writers' Award of Excellence.

PLUS every participating school receives a free copy of the book their students feature in!

(School and student winners will be chosen from entries submitted Feb-March 2024)

For Students

Our favorite 3 poets will each win a $50 Amazon gift card. 

PLUS all students will receive a bookmark, and those chosen for publication will receive a certificate of merit. 

Here are the ways you can enter digitally - please choose one:

Send your entries by uploading them:

Use the Online Writing Portal if you want your students to type their work during a lesson or for homework.

Writing Portal

Email Entries

Alternatively, you can submit your entries via Google Docs - please make sure that we have permission to access and download the files.

Send your entries, along with your school entry form, to:

Young Writers The Power of Poetry 77 Walnut Street Unit 11 Peabody MA 01960

Get FREE writing tips sent straight to your inbox!

Tips will be added here each week that the contest is running.

Get In Touch

Mail Young Writers 77 Walnut Street Unit 11 Peabody MA 01960

Email [email protected]

Tel 323-244-4784

Closing Date: April 19, 2024

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Fourteenth Annual Poetry Contest

Narrative’ s Fourteenth Annual Poetry Contest runs from May 9 until July 15. In a continuing effort to encourage and support talented poets, we’re offering prizes and widespread publicity to all winners and finalists. Narrative is always looking for new voices, so all entries will be considered for publication in the magazine.

Notes on the contest: A few years ago, a NEA study found that, after two decades in decline, poetry reading in the United States is on the rise. While the study didn’t say definitively what’s behind this reversal, Narrative and other great venues that have continued to publish and support poetry and poets have doubtlessly contributed to the heightened interest in the art.

Still, just over one in ten adults in the United States reads poetry, and the economics of poetry are such that poetry is for the most part a subsidized, rather than a profitable, enterprise. Poets and poetry publishers are still engaged in labors of love, aided by patrons who believe in the importance of poetry.

Narrative is a nonprofit organization, and its poetry program, like its other programs, depends largely on the support of many dedicated individuals who contribute resources and time to make the magazine possible. We are committed to paying our authors as well as possible and to creating as much attention as possible for their work. The overall cost of publishing poetry (payments to authors, production costs, awards and prizes, promotion) is far more than what comes in from poetry-related reading and entry fees—the income is nowhere close to the expense. Our reasons for publishing poetry are not about submission fees but about wanting poetry to be an important part of what we do and wanting to give back as much as we can, because literature contributes so much to life.

Narrative has 300,000 readers, and our audience is steadily growing. With a sizable and engaged readership, Narrative places poets and poetry in front of many more readers than most venues can. We’re working hard to get the magazine, and all our authors and artists, into the world via digital and other means—for free—to as many people as possible.

Participating in Narrative, whether by simply reading, by becoming a donor, or by introducing a friend to the magazine, is a vote to encourage and sustain literary work at a vital time.

Click here to submit your work.

Poetic Power

A creative communication blog, featured student writer: tyler tran.

“ Off the Block ” is an original essay written by Tyler Tran when he was in 5th grade attending Joseph R Dawe Jr Elementary School. This essay was chosen as a national Top Ten Winner out of thousands of entries submitted for the Summer 2013 contest.

Up until the third and fourth grade, Tyler used to dislike writing in school.  He explains, “My third grade teacher was Ms. Noble. She was a tough love teacher. She pushed me hard especially because she knew I had a lot of potential. She made me do more challenging work and that’s why I always put in all my effort when I work. The next year in fourth grade, I had yet another supportive and caring teacher, Mrs. Murphy. She also pushed so I could reach my true potential. She made learning fun and easy. Most of the time, I barely knew I was learning!

“I still miss her along with Ms. Noble, but I couldn’t have done it without my writing tutor Mrs. Zabinsky, she is the one who introduced me to the contest. She is patient with me and teaches me strategies to make writing easier, and sound better when I reread it. She gives me more confidence in myself when I write. When I work with her, she doesn’t turn down my ideas right away, she tweaks them slowly and slightly at a time, so I don’t notice the idea changing.

“Mrs. Zabinsky is a retired teacher with a lot of experience. I wouldn’t have been published three times or have made it as a Top Ten writer without Ms. Noble, Mrs. Murphy, and Mrs. Zabinsky. If I ever need advice or just want to say, “Hi,” I can visit Ms. Noble and Mrs. Murphy at the Joseph R. Dawe Elementary School, and I can just call Mrs. Zabinsky. Some of my goals for the future are to continue to be published and maybe someday be a professional writer. That’s my writing journey and my future goals for myself, for now.”

Tyler has now been accepted for publication eight times for his creative poetry and essay writing. To read his Top Ten essay, click here . To learn more about our national writing contests, visit www.poeticpower.com .

• Uncategorized

Featured Student Writer: Mariam Sulakian

Mariam’s essay, Gone , was selected as a Top Ten Winner in our Summer 2013 national essay contest.  At the time, Mariam in 11th grade attending The Harker School – Upper Campus in California. Click here to read her winning essay, and read more about this inspiring student below.

Above all, my ardor for writing pushes me further than my other passions. I discovered my fervor for writing when I was in third grade and started to compose small poems. Since then, I have often expressed myself through short stories and poems, which have earned recognition in various writing competitions.

I composed my short essay, Gone , in memory of my father, whose dear memory remains with me throughout the years of his passing. Although he is gone, I feel as though he still lives through me, inspiring me to pursue my dreams. One day, I aspire to take up a profession in the literary field in which I may continue to demonstrate my love of writing. Most of all, I will always aim to be the best I can for myself and others around me and ceaselessly seek for the optimum opportunity.”

To learn more about our national writing contests, visit www.poeticpower.com .

Featured Teacher: Melissa Williamson

We asked Melissa her thoughts on engaging student writers and what helps her to be successful in the classroom. She responded with the following:

“Engaging young writers can be tough. My main goal as I teach is to help my students find their writing voice. I want them to progress forward from emulating authors or producing what they think I want. Finding their individual writing voice is key. Some students like sarcasm while others like flowery wording. Descriptions for some students are matter of fact with specific details and others leave the reader with more room to imagine for themselves. Academic writing suits some personalities as others blossom with imagery and word pictures. No matter the style, once they find their voice they really begin to shine.

“I like to teach my 12-14 year-old students different aspects of writing beyond mere sentence structure. Some of the lessons they enjoy most have been writing with dialect, writing the same story from two different perspectives, and adding more to the ending of novels we read. I have also found that when it comes to teaching the mechanics of writing I prefer to use their own work. My students write responses to weekly journal prompts and I use those for our grammar exercises. Helping them transfer their book-knowledge to their own work can be challenging, but it is always exciting to see enlightened faces when they finally catch on.”

You can view Melissa’s personal homeschooling blog at http://gracefilledhomeschooling.blogspot.com .

Featured Student Writer: Madeline Marks

Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience and the passion to reach for the stars and change the world. — Harriet Tubman

“I cherish my love for writing, and winning this contest is very motivating.” Madeline explains, “My essay is about the necessity of unity, even in the smallest forms of life. Inspiration came to me from my love of beauty that isn’t seen in man-made structures. For me, the definition of beautiful isn’t something pretty — it’s the sparkling image of love, life and happiness.”

Madeline’s plans for the future are bold. She has already completed a full-length book of her poetry and is hoping to get it published soon. She is also currently working towards the completion of two more poetry books and one novel. Her number one dream is to run a publishing company that publishes children’s work, or in many cases, a publishing company that makes dreams come true.

Featured Student Writer: Allan Purcell

Allan is currently majoring in Popular Music with a minor in Creative Writing at Palm Beach Atlantic University.  He successfully auditioned to be in the University’s School of Music and Fine Arts and has received significant academic and music scholars.

Composing, arranging, and performing musical pieces are some of Allan’s passions.  He successfully won an international contest as a guest vocalist with the American rock group, Anberlin, by performing an original arrangement of one of their songs.  He also had the opportunity to sing on their newest release album, Vital .

“Importance and worth is dictated to us by the culture in which we live.” Allan explains, “In my essay,  Dirty Dishrag , I challenge these cultural ideas.  Even if overlooked and often tossed aside, the work of the dishrag serves to enhance the crystal, china and other ‘stars’ of the dinner table.  All people and jobs are of worth; we all have something important to contribute and shouldn’t be overlooked or taken for granted just because society may deem it not to be pretty enough, rich enough or successful enough.  We need to look within and see the beauty and important contributions of everyone.”

Allan’s future goals include working within the music industry while pursuing a career in entertainment law.

To learn more about our national writing contests, visit http://www.PoeticPower.com .

Featured Student Writer: Heather Hamann

Heather loves doing anything creative.  Her passion lies in music and writing; she plays the piano, violin, sings, and especially loves writing fantasy pieces.  Heather has written a book called When Fire Fell , and is currently working on a book called The Many Faces .  Poetry is also a passion of Heather’s.  She has had a few poems published so far.  She also loves to read; her favorite authors are William Shakespeare, J. K. Rowling, Robert Frost, Rick Riordan, and J. R. R. Tolkien.  Heather enjoys swimming and creating art in her free time.

“Stars” was inspired by a trip to see her family in Peru in the summer of 2012.  “While we were there we went to see Macchu Picchu, and on the way home from Aguas Calientes, I saw one of the most amazing things I’ve ever seen in my entire life: the stars.” Heather explains, “It was like nothing I had ever seen before and I was overwhelmed with inspiration, so when I found [Creative Communication’s] essay contest, I immediately thought of that experience.  Seeing something as awe-inspiring as that only happens once or twice in your life.”

In the future, Heather plans to graduate from high school and attend an Ivy League college majoring in physics.  She would then like to go to graduate school in astrophysics so she can teach astrophysics at a college for ten years or so.  Once she retires, she hopes to write and continue music as a hobby.

To learn more about our national writing contests, visit www.PoeticPower.com .

Expect Great Things and Great Things Happen

My son, who is in 8th grade, was in The Merchant of Venice this weekend.  Locally, we have a theater group for students in grades 4-12 that does three full-length Shakespeare plays a year.  The director could do simpler productions, but instead she stretches these young minds and expands their vocabulary and understanding of the world.

As teachers, it is comfortable to not stretch our students. I know teachers that give a simpler assignment because they feel too much of a challenge would be too difficult.  But having read student poetry and reviewed student art for our contests , I see the students who have been stretched and it is amazing to watch the growth.  When you have one excellent artist or writer in a classroom, then it is the child.  When you have an entire class of great writers and artists, it is the teacher.

We have our essay writing contest coming up Feb 15,  and our poetry and art contests the first week in April.  Just as my son can use the word “peevish” and understand the concept of the risk of loaning money as understood in The Merchant of Venice , I know that stretching him brought a great return.  Expect great things and great things happen.

• Featured Student Author: Madeline Roisman

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Find details about every creative writing competition—including poetry contests, short story competitions, essay contests, awards for novels, grants for translators, and more—that we’ve published in the Grants & Awards section of Poets & Writers Magazine during the past year. We carefully review the practices and policies of each contest before including it in the Writing Contests database, the most trusted resource for legitimate writing contests available anywhere.

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Find a home for your work by consulting our searchable databases of writing contests, literary magazines, small presses, literary agents, and more.

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Upcoming Contests with No Entry Fees

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Submissions are open for a number of contests with no entry fee . With deadlines ranging from March 31 to May 15 , all offer a cash prize of $1,000 or more.

Academy of American Poets James Laughlin Award : A prize of $5,000 is given annually for a second book of poetry by a living poet to be published in the coming calendar year. The winner also receives an all-expenses paid weeklong residency at the Betsy Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida. Copies of the winning book are purchased and distributed to members of the Academy of American Poets. Rick Barot, Gabrielle Calvocoressi, and Honorée Jeffers will judge. Deadline: May 15.

American Literary Translators Association Italian Prose in Translation Award : A prize of $5,000 is given annually for a book of fiction or nonfiction translated from Italian into English and published in the previous calendar year. Submissions may be made by publishers or translators. Deadline: April 20.

American Literary Translators Association Lucien Stryk Asian Translation Prize : A prize of $5,000 is given annually for a book of poetry or a text from Zen Buddhism translated from an Asian language into English and published in the previous calendar year. Books translated from Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Kannada, Korean, Sanskrit, Tamil, Thai, or Vietnamese into English are eligible. Submissions may be made by publishers or translators. Deadline: April 20.

Poetry Foundation Ruth Lilly and Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowships : Five fellowships of $25,800 each are given annually to U.S. poets between the ages of 21 and 31. Deadline: April 30.

Restless Books Prize for New Immigrant Writing : A prize of $10,000 and publication by Restless Books is given in alternating years for a debut book of fiction or nonfiction by a first-generation immigrant. The 2020 prize will be given in fiction. Writers who have not published a book of fiction in English are eligible. Dinaw Mengestu, Achy Obejas, and Ilan Stavans will judge. Deadline: May 1.

Saif Ghobash Banipal Prize for Arabic Literary Translation : A prize of £3,000 (approximately $3,945) is given annually for a book of poetry or fiction translated from Arabic into English and published for the first time in English during the previous year. Translations of Arabic works of poetry or fiction originally published in 1967 or later and published between April 1, 2019, and March 31, 2020, are eligible. Deadline: March 31.

Waterston Desert Writing Prize : A prize of $2,500 and a two-week residency at the PLAYA artists and scientists' retreat in Summer Lake, Oregon, is given annually for a nonfiction work-in-progress that “recognizes the vital role deserts play worldwide in the ecosystem and the human narrative, with the desert as both subject and setting.” The winner will also be provided with travel and lodging to attend a reception and awards ceremony at the High Desert Museum in Bend, Oregon, in June. Deadline: April 1.

Whiting Foundation Creative Nonfiction Grants : Up to eight grants of $40,000 each are given annually for creative nonfiction works-in-progress to enable writers to complete their books. Creative nonfiction writers under contract with a publisher are eligible. Deadline: May 4.

Willie Morris Award for Southern Fiction : A prize of $10,000 is given annually for a novel published during the previous calendar year that is set in the South and reflects Willie Morris’s “hope for belonging, for belief in a people’s better nature, for steadfastness against all that is hollow or crass or rootless or destructive.” The winner will also receive an all-expenses paid trip to Oxford, Mississippi, in fall 2020 for an award ceremony. Deadline: May 1.

Willie Morris Award for Southern Poetry : A prize of $2,500 is given annually for a single poem that evokes the American South. Susan Kinsolving will judge. Deadline: May 1.

Winning Writers Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest : A prize of $1,000 and publication on the Winning Writers website is given annually for a humorous poem. Jendi Reiter will judge. Deadline: April 1.

Visit the contest websites for complete guidelines, and check out the  Grants & Awards database  and  Submission Calendar  for more contests in poetry, fiction, and creative nonfiction.