High school is a time of exploration, self-discovery, and honing your talents. For budding poets, the teenage years offer a unique opportunity to experiment with language, explore emotions, and craft compelling narratives. Fortunately, there are numerous poetry contests specifically designed for high school students, providing platforms for recognition, scholarships, and even publication. These competitions not only validate young poets’ skills but also connect them with a wider literary community. If you’re a high school student with a passion for poetry, consider entering one of these exciting contests.
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Alt text: A student writing poetry in a notebook.
Finding the Right Poetry Contest for You
With so many options available, finding the right poetry contest can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of some prominent competitions, categorized by focus and eligibility:
National and International Competitions
- Scholastic Art & Writing Awards: This renowned competition recognizes students in grades 7-12 across various art and writing categories, including poetry. Winners receive scholarships, publication opportunities, and exhibition of their work.
- Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award: This international competition, open to students aged 11-17, celebrates exceptional young poets worldwide. Prizes include mentorship programs, publication in an anthology, and an awards ceremony in London.
U.S.-Based Competitions
- JUST POETRY!!! The National Poetry Quarterly: This contest, run by the National High School Poetry Association, offers cash prizes and publication for high school students. Poems are judged quarterly, providing multiple opportunities to submit.
- Poetry Out Loud: This national recitation contest encourages students to engage with classic and contemporary poetry through performance. Competitions progress from school to national levels, culminating in scholarship awards.
Themed Competitions
- The Ocean Awareness Competition: This contest invites students aged 11-18 to submit creative works, including poetry, focused on ocean conservation and environmental issues. Prizes include cash awards, scholarships, and mentorship opportunities.
- The River of Words: Founded by former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Hass, this competition encourages students aged 5-19 to explore their connection with nature through poetry and art.
Open Competitions
- Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers: Open to high school sophomores and juniors, this prestigious competition offers a full scholarship to the Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop and publication in the Kenyon Review.
- Rattle Poetry Prize: This competition, open to all ages, offers cash prizes and publication in Rattle magazine. While not exclusively for high school students, it provides a valuable opportunity for young poets to gain recognition.
- The Wergle Flomp Humor Poetry Contest: This lighthearted competition celebrates humor in poetry and is open to poets worldwide.
- The America Library of Poetry Student Poetry Contest: This competition encourages students in grades 3-12 to submit their original poems for a chance to win cash prizes and publication in an anthology.
Tips for Entering Poetry Contests
- Read the Guidelines: Carefully review the specific requirements for each contest, including eligibility, submission format, and deadlines.
- Choose the Right Poem: Select a poem that aligns with the contest’s theme (if applicable) and showcases your strongest writing.
- Polish Your Work: Revise and edit your poem meticulously before submitting. Seek feedback from trusted teachers, mentors, or peers.
- Be Confident: Believe in your work and don’t be discouraged if you don’t win immediately. Every contest is a learning opportunity.
Entering poetry contests can be a rewarding experience for high school students. It provides a platform to share your voice, develop your craft, and connect with a community of fellow poets. Embrace the challenge and let your words bloom!