Top Writing Contests for High School Students
These popular writing contests welcome high school participants and provide a platform for young authors to shine.
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
A prestigious competition that honors creativity and excellence in writing. It features categories like poetry, essays, and short stories, with national recognition for top students.
Young Arts Writing Competition
A renowned program for talented young writers seeking mentorship and growth. Winners receive scholarships, creative guidance, and exposure to professional opportunities.
John Locke Essay Competition
An international contest promoting analytical and critical thinking. Students write essays on subjects like philosophy, politics, and economics to showcase their reasoning skills.
River of Words Poetry Contest
A global competition combining creativity and environmental awareness. Students express their connection to nature through original poems and artistic expression.
The New York Times Student Review Contest
A contest that helps students sharpen analytical and expressive skills. Participants write engaging reviews on films, books, or art while developing critical thinking.
National High School Essay Contest
A respected global contest promoting awareness of diplomacy and world affairs. It encourages students to explore international relations through thoughtful essays.
How to Prepare for a Writing Contest
Success in writing contests requires more than talent it’s about preparation and persistence.
Know the Rules
Carefully read all contest details before you begin writing. Understand the theme, word count, format, and deadlines to make sure your entry meets every requirement.
Choose a Genre You Love
Pick a category that truly excites you, such as poetry, fiction, or essays. Writing about topics you enjoy helps your ideas flow naturally and makes your work more engaging.
Create an Outline
Plan your piece before writing the first draft. Outlining your main ideas helps organize your thoughts and ensures a logical, well-structured final submission.
Edit and Proofread
Always revise your work after finishing. Check for grammar, clarity, and sentence flow small edits can make your writing more polished and professional.
Get Feedback
Ask a teacher, friend, or mentor to review your piece before submitting. Constructive feedback highlights your strengths and helps you improve weak spots effectively.
Stay Consistent
Write regularly to build confidence and skill over time. Even short daily writing sessions can strengthen your creativity and prepare you for future contests.
When You Need Inspiration
Writer’s block is normal! When it strikes, take a short walk, read something new, or listen to music. Inspiration often comes from everyday moments, so keep an open mind and jot ideas down whenever they appear.
Effective Strategies for Contest Success
Winning entries often stand out because of their clarity, creativity, and emotional depth.
Break Down the Topic
Divide the contest theme into smaller, focused questions to better understand it. This method helps you explore different angles, build stronger ideas, and write with more clarity and depth.
Show, Don’t Tell
Use vivid descriptions, sensory details, and imagery to make your writing come alive. When readers can visualize your words, your story feels more real and emotionally engaging.
Reflect Your Personality
JBe authentic and let your natural voice shine through your work. Judges appreciate honesty and individuality, so express your experiences and perspective with confidence.
Checklist Before Submission
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Follow all contest rules and formatting guidelines.
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Proofread multiple times before sending.
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Keep a copy of your work and submission details.
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Submit early to avoid last-minute issues.
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Stay confident you’ve done your best!
Pain Points Students Face
Many students struggle with self-doubt or worry about their writing being “not good enough.” Others find it hard to manage deadlines or organize ideas. The truth is, even professional writers face these same challenges. The key is to keep writing, stay positive, and treat every contest as a learning experience.
Conclusion
Writing contests are a fun, rewarding way to challenge yourself and grow as a writer. They teach patience, discipline, and creativity all skills that will benefit you long after high school. So, pick a contest that excites you, prepare thoughtfully, and let your words do the magic. Remember, success begins the moment you decide to start writing.
