A free writing competition from Bennington College for students in grades 9-12, with categories in poetry (a group of three poems), fiction (a short story or one-act play) and nonfiction (a personal or academic essay). Entries must be original work sponsored by a high school teacher, and stories and essays must be under 1500 words. A first, second and third place winner is chosen in each category, with cash prizes up to $2,000, and winners are announced in the spring.
Offered by Bennington College. Competition for high school students in USA. Format: Online. Cost: Free. Grades 9–12. Deadline: 2026-11-01.
Fields: Writing
Info checked October 2026.
The last posted deadline, November 1, 2026, has passed. The date for the next cycle isn't posted yet, so check the official page.
Yes. Bennington Young Writers Awards is free to take part in.
High school students in grades 9 to 12. It runs online. Age, residency and citizenship rules are on the official page.
More academic competitions for high school students