A Few Writing Contests

Photo by Abigail Miller on Unsplash

Every so often, I’ll put together a short list of contests or possible places for submission—a list carefully vetted. I’ll include links for more info, as well as the basics of what, where, when… and whether open to both Canadian and American writers and others. I’ll try to find low or no entry fees. (This is not easy, I’m realizing.) Or will include a note if the fee covers a subscription, as is often the case with literary journals. (Those fees often serve to keep small publications afloat.)

I’ll also try to post at least a month ahead of any deadline! And mix poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and work for young people as much as possible.

If you know of any reputable contests and places to sub work, please share in the comments.

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First, I’ll again include a note about Substack’s own Short Story. The quality of work being accepted and winning each month is setting a high standard, and the amount being paid out is decent. (This past month was over $400.) Do take a look, and sub work (no fee, though you can support by subscribing). Deadline is the end of each month.

Event Magazine’s creative Nonfiction contest: 5000 word max, deadline October 15, fee of $34.95 includes a subscription to the magazine. Open to Canadians and Americans (US folks send fee in US funds.) This contest is significant in Canada, and by that, I mean publishers pay attention to this; the work is strong, standards are high.

Flash Fiction - UK-based, but open to all. Up to 500 words, deadline September 30. Fee of 5£. (They also have a short fiction contest, but that deadline is not until February.) AND a “novel opening” contest, deadline October 31. For the novel sub, the max is 3000 words PLUS a 750 word synopsis. Entry fee is 10£. A great way to know the impact of your opening!

MastersReview - short fiction under 6000 words. The prize here is sizable: $3000 plus agency review. The fee is $20. It is for emerging writers only—that means no one with even a book contract in hand! Deadline: August 28. Open to international subs.

The Surrey International Writers’ Conference has a short fiction contest, deadline September 15, entrance fee $15. 2500-4000 words. I asked if the contest entrants are international too… and the answer is yes, and they’ve had a number of winners from overseas… those of you on the other side of the Atlantic and elswhere… Check out the rules in the link!