For writers, writing contests are more than just a chance to win a prize—they’re powerful opportunities to gain recognition, improve your craft, and even kickstart a writing career. Whether you’re a seasoned storyteller or just starting out, entering contests can push your skills to the next level while opening doors to exciting opportunities.
But why should you enter writing contests? Beyond the thrill of competition, they help you build a portfolio, connect with literary professionals, and, in many cases, win cash prizes or publication opportunities. Some of today’s most successful authors got their first break by winning a contest!
The best part? There are free writing contests available for those who want to test their skills without any financial commitment, alongside prestigious paid contests that offer significant rewards. And if you’re wondering how to win writing contests, strategic preparation, originality, and strong storytelling can set you apart.
No matter your genre—fiction, poetry, memoir, or flash fiction—there’s a competition for you. In this post, we’ll explore eight top writing contests in 2025 that every writer should consider entering.
Why Enter Writing Contests?
If you’ve ever wondered why enter writing contests, the answer is simple: they offer more than just a chance to win. Whether you’re an aspiring author or an experienced writer, competitions provide unique benefits that can elevate your career and craft. Here’s why you should consider submitting your work:
1. Boost Your Writing Skills
Writing contests challenge you to meet deadlines, stick to word limits, and refine your storytelling. The more you write and revise, the stronger your skills become. Even if you don’t win, the experience alone helps you grow as a writer.
2. Build Your Portfolio
A strong writing portfolio is essential, especially if you’re looking to publish or land freelance work. Contest wins—or even honorable mentions—add credibility to your writing resume and show that your work stands out.
3. Gain Recognition & Exposure
Winning or placing in a contest can bring your writing to a wider audience. Many competitions publish winning entries in anthologies, literary magazines, or online platforms, giving you valuable exposure. Some even provide networking opportunities with editors, agents, and publishers.
4. Win Cash Prizes & Scholarships
Many writing contests offer cash rewards, mentorship programs, or scholarships for winners. This financial support can fund your next project, cover writing-related expenses, or simply be a great bonus for your hard work.
5. Increase Your Chances of Publication
Some contests come with publication opportunities, which means your work could be featured in a well-known literary journal or book. For many writers, this is a stepping stone to landing a book deal or working with an agent.
Entering free writing contests is a great way to gain experience without any financial risk, while paid competitions often come with larger prizes and greater exposure. Either way, contests can be a game-changer for your writing career.
Now that you know why contests matter, let’s dive into the strategies for how to win writing contests and maximize your chances of success.
8 Top Writing Contests to Enter in 2025
If you’re ready to put your skills to the test, here are eight top writing contests in 2025 that offer exciting opportunities for writers of all levels. Whether you’re looking for free writing contests or competitions with substantial prizes, this list includes a mix of both.
1. The Bridport Prize (Fiction, Poetry, Flash Fiction)
📌 Why Enter? One of the most prestigious international competitions, the Bridport Prize offers generous cash prizes and publication opportunities for emerging writers.
- Entry Fee: Yes
- Prize: Up to £5,000 ($6,000 USD)
- Deadline: May 2025
- Who Can Enter? Open to all writers worldwide
2. Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition (Multiple Categories)
📌 Why Enter? This long-running contest covers multiple genres, including short stories, poetry, memoirs, and even screenplays.
- Entry Fee: Yes
- Prize: $5,000 + publication in Writer’s Digest
- Deadline: June 2025
- Who Can Enter? Open to writers worldwide
3. The Bath Novel Award (Unpublished Novelists)
📌 Why Enter? Ideal for aspiring novelists, this contest offers a significant cash prize and the chance to gain agent representation.
- Entry Fee: Yes
- Prize: £3,000 ($3,800 USD) + agent introductions
- Deadline: March 2025
- Who Can Enter? Writers with unpublished manuscripts
4. The BBC National Short Story Award (Short Fiction)
📌 Why Enter? One of the UK’s most prestigious short story competitions, this award offers a substantial cash prize and widespread recognition.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Prize: £15,000 ($18,900 USD)
- Deadline: May 2025
- Who Can Enter? Open to UK residents
5. The Oxford Flash Fiction Prize (Flash Fiction)
📌 Why Enter? A great opportunity for flash fiction writers, this contest celebrates concise yet powerful storytelling.
- Entry Fee: Yes
- Prize: £1,000 ($1,250 USD) + publication
- Deadline: April & September 2025 (two rounds)
- Who Can Enter? Open to all writers worldwide
6. The Poetry Foundation’s Ruth Lilly & Dorothy Sargent Rosenberg Poetry Fellowships (Poetry)
📌 Why Enter? One of the largest poetry prizes for young and emerging poets.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Prize: $25,800 per winner
- Deadline: April 2025
- Who Can Enter? Poets aged 21-31 worldwide
7. The Commonwealth Short Story Prize (Global Fiction)
📌 Why Enter? Open to writers from Commonwealth countries, this contest promotes diverse storytelling.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Prize: £5,000 ($6,300 USD)
- Deadline: November 2025
- Who Can Enter? Writers from Commonwealth nations
8. The Staunch Book Prize (Thrillers Without Violence Against Women)
📌 Why Enter? A unique opportunity for thriller writers who take a fresh approach to suspense.
- Entry Fee: Yes
- Prize: £2,000 ($2,500 USD)
- Deadline: July 2025
- Who Can Enter? Open to all thriller writers worldwide
Which Writing Contest is Right for You?
- If you love flash fiction, try The Oxford Flash Fiction Prize.
- For poets, The Poetry Foundation’s Fellowships offer huge rewards.
- Want global recognition? The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is a great option.
- Need a free writing contest? The BBC National Short Story Award and Commonwealth Short Story Prize are excellent choices.
No matter your experience level or genre, there’s a writing contest for you in 2025. Now, let’s explore whether free or paid contests are the right fit for your writing journey.
Start Your Publishing Journey FOR FREEHow to Win Writing Contests: 5 Expert Tips
Entering a competition is one thing, but actually winning? That takes strategy, preparation, and a little bit of creativity. If you’re wondering how to win writing contests, here are five expert tips to help your entry stand out.
1. Follow the Submission Guidelines to the Letter
This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how many writers get disqualified simply for overlooking a rule. Every contest has specific guidelines—word count limits, formatting requirements, and even themes. Failing to follow them, even slightly, can get your submission rejected before it’s even read.
Checklist:
- Stick to the word count (don’t exceed or fall too short).
- Follow the required format (font, spacing, file type).
- Ensure your piece aligns with the contest’s theme.
2. Research Past Winners & Judges’ Preferences
Most contests publish previous winning entries. Read them. Analyze the style, tone, and themes that resonated with the judges. This doesn’t mean copying their approach but understanding what kind of work gets noticed.
✅ Pro Tip: If judges have a literary background, they may favor lyrical prose. If the contest is for a magazine, a more commercial style might win. Do your homework!
3. Edit, Polish, and Seek Feedback
Even the best stories need refining. Before submitting, revise, edit, and proofread. Many contests receive thousands of entries, and a single typo can make your work look unpolished.
Editing Steps:
- Take a break after writing, then revisit with fresh eyes.
- Read your piece out loud—it helps catch awkward phrasing.
- Use grammar-checking tools like Grammarly or ProWritingAid.
- Get feedback from beta readers, critique groups, or writing coaches.
4. Be Original & Take Risks
Judges read hundreds, sometimes thousands, of entries. If your work feels too familiar, it may get lost in the pile. Unique perspectives, fresh storytelling, and unexpected twists can make your submission stand out.
Ways to Stand Out:
- Start with a strong, compelling opening.
- Avoid clichés—make familiar ideas feel new.
- Show emotion through action, not just description.
- Experiment with structure or narrative voice.
5. Submit Early & Stay Organized
Avoid waiting until the last minute to submit. Technical issues, missed deadlines, or rushing through last-minute edits can hurt your chances. Keep track of deadlines and plan ahead.
How to Stay Organized:
- Create a contest calendar with submission deadlines.
- Set reminders a week before the deadline for final revisions.
- Have a backup of your submission in case of technical issues.
Winning a writing contest isn’t just about talent—it’s about preparation, precision, and perseverance. Now that you know how to increase your chances, let’s look at the best writing contests to enter in 2025 to put your skills to the test!
Free Writing Contests vs. Paid Writing Contests: Which One is Better?
When deciding which writing contests to enter, one key factor is whether the competition requires an entry fee. Some of the best free writing contests provide incredible opportunities without any financial risk, while paid contests often offer larger cash prizes and better exposure. So, which is the right choice for you? Let’s break it down.
Free Writing Contests: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- No financial risk—anyone can enter.
- More accessible for new and emerging writers.
- Some offer prestigious recognition and high-value prizes.
Cons:
- Higher competition—thousands of entries make it harder to win.
- Fewer prize offerings (sometimes just publication or a certificate).
- Limited feedback—most free contests don’t provide critiques.
Best Free Contests to Enter in 2025:
- BBC National Short Story Award (Short Fiction)
- Commonwealth Short Story Prize (Global Fiction)
- Poetry Foundation’s Fellowships (Poetry)
Paid Writing Contests: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Often offer bigger cash prizes and publishing opportunities.
- Some include feedback or mentorship for finalists.
- Lower competition compared to free contests (fewer people enter).
Cons:
- Entry fees can add up if submitting to multiple contests.
- No guarantee of a return on investment.
- Some contests are scams—research is essential.
Best Paid Contests to Enter in 2025:
- Bridport Prize (Fiction, Poetry, Flash Fiction)
- Writer’s Digest Annual Writing Competition (Multiple Genres)
- Bath Novel Award (For Unpublished Novelists)
Which Should You Enter?
- If you’re just starting out, free contests are a great way to gain experience without spending money.
- If you’re confident in your writing and willing to invest, paid contests can offer better rewards and exposure.
- A good strategy? Enter a mix of both to maximize opportunities!
No matter which route you take, entering writing contests is a great way to challenge yourself, improve your skills, and gain recognition. Next, let’s go over some final tips to help you succeed.
Final Tips for Entering Writing Contests in 2025
Entering a writing contest is exciting, but to increase your chances of success, you need more than just great writing. Preparation, strategy, and persistence play a huge role in helping you stand out. Here are some final tips to boost your chances of winning:
1. Keep a Contest Calendar
Many competitions have strict deadlines, and missing them can mean waiting another year to enter. Stay organized by keeping track of deadlines and planning ahead.
Pro Tip: Use a digital calendar or spreadsheet to track:
- Contest name
- Submission deadline
- Entry fee (if applicable)
- Submission status (drafting, editing, submitted)
2. Enter Multiple Contests
Don’t put all your hopes into one competition. The more contests you enter, the better your chances of success. Even if you don’t win, you’ll gain valuable experience and feedback.
Pro Tip: Submit different pieces to different contests to maximize your opportunities.
3. Don’t Get Discouraged by Rejection
Rejections happen—even to award-winning authors. A contest is highly competitive, and not winning doesn’t mean your work isn’t good. Many successful writers were rejected before they won their first award.
Mindset Shift: Use every rejection as a learning experience. Revise, improve, and try again.
4. Network with Other Writers and Contest Winners
Engaging with past winners or fellow contestants can help you learn from their experiences. Some contests even provide feedback to entrants, which can be incredibly valuable for growth.
Ways to Connect:
- Join writing communities on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit.
- Follow contests and winners on social media.
- Participate in online writing workshops or critique groups.
5. Have Fun and Take Risks
The best contest entries are bold, unique, and creative. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new writing styles, formats, or perspectives. Sometimes, thinking outside the box is what makes a piece memorable.
Final Thoughts
Writing contests offer an incredible opportunity to grow as a writer, gain exposure, and even win prizes. Whether you choose to enter free writing contests or invest in paid competitions, the experience alone can help you sharpen your craft.
So, what’s next? Pick a contest, polish your best work, and submit it! Your next big writing breakthrough could be just one entry away.
