Upcoming Writing Contests

The following is a list of upcoming writing contests. Be sure to carefully review any contest before entering. Pay close attention to the terms, rights, fees, prize money, judges and rules. You can also view a list of just the poetry contests and a list of writing contests for kids. You can also view a list of all the contests here.

We also recommend reading Alex Keegan's article about increasing your chances of winning writing contests.

Writer's Digest Short Short Story Competition
This short fiction contest from Writer's Digest is for stories 1,500 words or less.
Deadline: November 16, 2026
Prizes: $3,000 first place plus publication

BlueCat Screenwriting Contest
The 2026 BlueCat Screenplay Competition is open to features and short film scripts.
Deadline: December 10, 2026
Prizes: $3,000 grand prize

Boulevard Short Fiction Contest for Emerging Writers
The annual fiction contest offers a $1,500 cash prize plus publication in Boulevard magazine.
Deadline: December 31, 2026
Prizes: $1,500 plus publication