Young Writers Awards
Competition · Bennington College · Online
Poetry, fiction, and nonfiction awards for grades 10–12.
Our take
Free to enter, judged by Bennington's writing faculty, real cash prizes. One of the cleaner writing awards.
“Helps an application” is our read on how much an admissions reader is likely to weigh it: Strong means getting in or placing is a real achievement, Solid means it shows real interest and effort, and Light usually means most students who apply and pay can attend. It’s our opinion, not a ranking from any college, and a light one can still be a great summer.
The details
- Run by
- Bennington College
- Type
- Competition
- Format
- Online
- When
- During the school year
- Who can apply
- 10th–12th grade
- How hard to get in
- Competitive
- Cost
- Free
- Deadline
- Usually closes in November.
- Subjects
- Writing
Dates, costs and rules change every year. Check the official site before you apply. Last checked October 18, 2026.
Questions
Is Young Writers Awards worth it?
Free to enter, judged by Bennington's writing faculty, real cash prizes. One of the cleaner writing awards. On how much it helps a college application, we rate it solid.
How much does Young Writers Awards cost?
It’s free, or it pays you. Check the official site for this year’s price.
When is the Young Writers Awards deadline?
Usually closes in November. Exact dates change every year, so confirm on the official site.
Who can apply to Young Writers Awards?
Students in 10th–12th grade. It is competitive.
Want a list picked for you?
Clarity Prep members get opportunities matched to their grade, interests and state in the app, plus a mentor who helps them decide what’s worth applying to and checks in every week until the applications are in.
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