journalism essay contest

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Contests offer students a platform to showcase excellence and receive the recognition they deserve.

If you would like to help judge in the upcoming convention contests, please fill out the form here .

Junior High/Middle School National Media Contest

View Details ›

National Student Media Contests

Scholastic journalism week poster contest, spj/jea high school essay contest, national journalism quiz bowl, 2025 contest dates.

The 2025 contest will be open March 31 to April 14, 2025. The final deadline is April 14 at noon CT.

Contest Cost

Each entry is $10 per student, per contest entry. (If multiple students are entered for one item, it is $10 per student for that entry. For a category like Yearbook Theme, you may enter just the editor's name and pay one entry fee, but you would only receive a certificate etc. for that student.)

Advisers will be invoiced for the entirety of their submissions after the contest deadline. Awards will be mailed after judging is completed and the registration fees are paid.

Contest Entry Guidelines

The adviser to entrants must be a current JEA member.
All entries must be from students in middle school or junior high.
Work may NOT be from a high school publication.
Content must have been published in a school publication during the current contest year’s academic school year or must be set to be published in the yearbook that covers that contest year’s academic school year.
Items may only be entered in ONE CATEGORY. See each category for specific instructions.

Preparing Entries › | Registration and Online Entry Directions ›

The ratings are Superior, Excellent and Honorable Mention. Winners will receive certificates.

Superior ratings, which also are awarded with a medal, will be given to no more than 10 percent of the entries in any contest. Judges may give as many ratings in Excellent and Honorable Mention as appropriate.

For each entry, submit a photo with a complete, published caption as a JPG. Photographs submitted without corresponding captions will be disqualified from award contention. Carefully follow the instructions on photo preparation and submission.

P1 – News/Academic Photo and Caption (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): The picture captures a person or event at a decisive moment, is dramatic and makes readers think; technical quality — contrast, focus, effective cropping are important too. Caption should explain the photo, identify all the important people and be written in proper journalistic style.
P2 – Sports Action or Reaction Photo and Caption (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Like a news photo, the picture should capture a decisive moment, show action, tension or emotion; technical quality is important too. Caption should identify players, jersey numbers and what is happening in the photo.
P3 – Student Life Photo and Caption (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Superior student life photos will offer interesting angles and composition techniques to tell a visual story. Focus, effective cropping and technical quality are important too. Caption should explain the photo, identify important people and be written in proper journalistic style.
P4 – Feature/Environmental Portrait Photo and Caption (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): This is a human interest or humorous photo with emotional impact. It uses elements of good composition, is artistic and has high technical quality. Captions support the photo by providing extra information that you cannot tell by looking at the photo. Writing shows good journalistic style. Please note: This contest is not designed to honor great photos of the mountains, nature, etc.

Entries will be submitted as PDF files no larger than 20 MB. Items must be submitted as one PDF file in spreads where appropriate. Entries that are double-page spreads should be saved as such (not as two separate pages). Carefully follow the instructions on design entry preparation and submission.

Y1 – Theme Package (LIMIT ONE ENTRY PER SCHOOL): Include cover, endsheet (if printed), title page, opening spread, closing spread and one divider spread. You may choose to include one additional example demonstrating theme development elsewhere in the book (optional) and a one-page document explaining the theme development (optional). Superior entries in this category will show a contemporary idea fitting to the school population for the current year and development with visual unifiers and/or wordplay or verbal spinoffs.

YEARBOOK DESIGN CATEGORIES: For each entry, include a complete two-page spread as one PDF file. Superior entries in this category will include complete coverage of appropriate section-specific topics with storytelling photos in addition to supporting coverage, all while following solid design principles.

Y2A – Traditional Coverage Spread Design (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Enter double-page spreads that cover a single subject on a Student Life spread (event or lifestyle), Academics, Clubs/Organizations spread, or Sports spread.
Y2B – Umbrella or Chronological Spread Design (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Enter double-page spreads that use either an umbrella or chronological organizational structure to cover multiple traditional areas of coverage like academics, organizations/clubs, student life, sports, etc.
Y2C – Yearbook Specialty/Alternative Story Package (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Enter single or double-page specialty spreads, such as an interrupter, trends page, or any spread that may present information in a non-narrative formats such as a timelines, lists, broken story segments, Q&A sections or the use of infographics.

YEARBOOK WRITING CATEGORIES:

Y3A – Opening Copy (LIMIT ONE ENTRY PER SCHOOL): Writing throughout the opening spreads that establishes the theme with specific examples as to why the theme is relevant to the year and to your school. Copy should have a clear voice and tone. Entry must include a PDF of the page(s) where the opening copy appears. If needed, clearly indicate the copy that is intended to be judged.
Y3B – Sports Writing (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Traditional sports writing that covers any topic that spotlights a team or teams and their season. For each entry, include a story with its accompanying double-page spread.
Y3C – Yearbook Writing (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Traditional Student Life (event or lifestyle), Clubs/Organizations, Academics or People (personality profile) coverage spreads. For each entry, include a story with its accompanying double-page spread.

ONLINE MEDIA CATEGORIES: Submit the URL for the entry.

O1 – Online Story Package (LIMIT THREE ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): This entry should consist of a news, feature or sports package from an online website. The package should consist of several story elements that are all related to a single story idea connected to a timely event. The online package may consist of text, photos, infographics, sidebars, video, maps, interactive reader items, linked social media coverage — anything and everything that shows your staff fully engaged using multiple methods to tell the story online.

NEWS DESIGN CATEGORIES: Entry limit varies per category. For Front Page Layout, select N1A or N1B depending on your publication’s format. For each category, include one PDF of the entire newspaper page/spread.

N1A – Newspaper Front Page Design (LIMIT ONE ENTRY PER SCHOOL): The newspaper uses clean design to grab readers’ attention and guide them from story to story. Superior entries will use strong packaging for visual impact, prioritizing news value by story placement and offering a strong first impression to the issue as a whole.
N1B – Newsmagazine Cover (LIMIT ONE ENTRY PER SCHOOL): The newsmagazine uses clean design to grab readers’ attention. Features a dynamic nameplate and compelling verbal and visual content. Superior entries will use strong packaging for visual impact, prioritizing news value by story placement and offering a strong first impression to the issue as a whole.
N2 – Single Inside Page Design (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Single Feature/Opinion/Sports page layout. Design has a strong center of visual interest, attractive graphics/photos to help tell the stories (when appropriate) and a layout that helps readers understand content. These are intended to be viewed without a facing page.
N3 – Doubletruck/Two-Page Design (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Normally the center spread of a newsmagazine or newspaper. Facing pages designed as one unit. Design has a strong center of visual interest, attractive graphics/photos to help tell the stories (when appropriate) and a layout that helps readers understand content.

GRAPHIC DESIGN CATEGORIES: For each category, include the PDF of the entire newspaper page/spread or yearbook spread that the item appeared on.

G1 – Editorial Cartoon (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Include the PDF of the entire page on which the editorial cartoon appears. Both artistic technique and message are important; an editorial cartoon should make a point about something in the school, community or world and be understandable to average readers. Superior entries will demonstrate a high quality illustration and a clear message.
G2 – Infographic (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Include the PDF of the entire page on which the infographic appears. If more than one infographic appears on the page, indicate which is to be judged. An infographic combines copy and illustrations to make information visual. Superior entries will add meaningful details to the topic with a nicely packaged graphic that includes a source for information collected. Infographics can be stand-alone or part of a story.
G3 – Illustration (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Include the PDF of the entire page on which the illustration appears. If more than one illustration appears on the page, indicate which is to be judged. This category includes original artwork — hand drawn or digitally created — used to establish a theme or mood with the intent to enhance an article.

NEWS WRITING CATEGORIES – For each category, include the PDF of the entire newspaper page/spread that the item appeared on. NOTE: If there is more than one story on the PDF, clearly indicate which story is to be judged.

N4 – News Writing (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): This story should focus on timely news matters. Superior entries will engage readers with a strong lead, detailed reporting, appropriateness and significance of topic, strong organization, conciseness, factual support, fairness and use of appropriate sources.
N5 – Feature Writing (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): This story may be a personality profile, human interest piece or general feature story. Story uses expert sources when possible, avoids reporter opinion and leaves no unanswered questions. Features focus more on the personal, and sometimes they are less timely than traditional news stories. Superior entries will engage readers with a strong lead, clear human interest angle, detailed reporting, colorful description and meaningful quotes from a variety of sources.
N6 – Editorial or Column (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL: A commentary or column is a personal opinion piece and does have a byline. Superior editorials will be clearly articulated positions, without a byline, written on behalf of the entire staff in regard to a timely, newsworthy topic. Superior columns will address timely, reader-relevant topics, conveying the writer’s personal opinion with a clear voice.
N7 – Review Sports Writing (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL: A signed opinion piece that reviews movies, music, plays, concerts, books, exhibits, performances or anything else available to the student community.
N8 – Sports Writing (LIMIT TWO ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Sports coverage pieces cover a RECENT sporting event or one that will occur soon. The reporter does so without reporter opinion; coach and player quotes add necessary insight. Sports features go behind the scenes or otherwise find out the “why,” and the reporter conveys a sport’s background or mood, either scholastic, intramural or life sport. Superior entries will engage readers with a strong lead, clear coverage, detailed reporting, colorful description and meaningful quotes from a variety of sources.

Entries must have been broadcast at school or in the community or on the web during this school year. Broadcast packages must be uploaded to Vimeo or YouTube and submitted with a link. DO NOT submit links to items saved in Google Folders etc. Carefully follow the instructions on broadcast video preparation and submission.

Video, Music and Image Use in Contest Entries: You must provide documentation that any audio, video or photographic material submitted belongs to the school submitting the work. This can be done by including evidence of subscription, purchase, license agreement or contract in the YouTube or Vimeo video description of your entry or by emailing it to JEA Contest Chair Nancy Smith . Failure to do so will result in no award and disqualification. (Example: Big Horns Intro by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license https://www.youtube.com/audiolibrary/music)

B1 – Broadcast News Story/Short Documentary (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Total running time 1:30-5:00. Pre-recorded stories contain reporter’s voice-overs, videotaped shots and sound bites. Must adhere to broadcast style (short sentences, present tense, conversational) and contain all necessary information. Sound bites are well shot, varied and relevant. Editing is free of glitches and jump cuts. Natural sound is used effectively. Superior entries have video and script, which complement each other.
B2 – Broadcast Feature Story (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Total running time no longer than 1:30. Pre-recorded stories contain reporter’s voice-overs, videotaped shots and sound bites. Must adhere to broadcast style (short sentences, present tense, conversational) and contain all necessary information. Sound bites are well shot, varied and relevant. Editing is free of glitches and jump cuts. Natural sound is used effectively. Superior entries have video and script, which complement each other.
B3 – Broadcast Sports Story (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Total running time no longer than 1:30. Pre-recorded stories contain reporter’s voice-overs, videotaped shots and sound bites. Must adhere to broadcast style (short sentences, present tense, conversational) and contain all necessary information. Sound bites are well shot, varied and relevant. Editing is free of glitches and jump cuts. Natural sound is used effectively. Superior entries have video and script, which complement each other.
B4 – PSA/Commercial (LIMIT FOUR ENTRIES PER SCHOOL): Total running time must be exactly 30 seconds or 1 minute. Commercials must be produced for school announcements or TV programs and should publicize school events, activities and social functions. PSAs should attempt to shed light on an issue or situation of importance to teens. Credits are not included in the 60 seconds. Superior entries use videotaped shots, voiceovers, sound bites and graphics as appropriate. Video and script complement each other.

The deadline for registration and online entry submission for the fall 2024 NSMC in Philadelphia has passed. Visit the NSMC website ›

Fall 2024 philadelphia prompts and themes for online contests .

Online contest submissions can be submitted Sept. 17 through Oct. 15. All submissions must be entered by noon Central, Tuesday, Oct. 15.

For your record keeping, use the NSMC contest tracker in Google Sheets to assign students to contests and manage online entry submissions. Go to the File menu, then select Make a Copy or Download to record your student assignments.

It is imperative that advisers and contestants carefully read all the rules to make sure all deadlines and requirements are met.

What is being judged is not just the entry itself, but the contestant’s ability to read and follow directions, meet deadlines, and develop the necessary skills to produce a winning entry.

Registration and Online-Entry Directions ›

PARTICIPATION REQUIREMENTS:

Contestants must be paid attendees at the convention.
For Contests 36-39, only one member of the team is required to be present at the convention.*
Junior high/middle school students may enter any contest.
A student may enter only one category.
Each school is limited to one entry per category.
The journalism teacher/adviser must be a current JEA member for the students to participate in the contests.
Advisers requesting special accommodations for students with disabilities must do so by the registration deadline and bring documentation (IEP/504) to the convention.
All contests require students to bring their own supplies.
No late entries will be accepted.

Entry fee: $20 per student *In team contests, each student on the team must be registered and paid.

Payment is due by the Friday of the convention. Payment may be submitted through the online contest system or checks may be hand carried to the convention.

Contest Rules and Policies

(APPLIES TO ALL CONTESTS)

Writing Contests: One student per school may enter each contest

01. Newswriting
02. Editorial Writing
03. Feature Writing
04. Sports Writing
05. Review Writing
06. Editorial Cartooning
07. Commentary Writing
08. News Editing/Headline Writing/Current Events

News Design Contests: One student per school may enter each contest

09. Newspaper Layout (online submission)
10. Newsmagazine Layout (online submission)

Press Law and Ethics: One student per school may enter

11. Press Law and Ethics

Yearbook Contests: One student per school may enter each contest

12. Yearbook Copy Caption: Sports
13. Yearbook Copy Caption: Academics
14. Yearbook Copy Caption: Clubs
15. Yearbook Copy Caption: Student Life
16. Yearbook Layout: Theme (online submission)
17. Yearbook Layout: Inside Pages (online submission)
18. Yearbook Cover/Endsheets (online submission)

Literary Magazine Contests: One student per school may enter each contest

19. Literary Magazine: Layout (online submission)
20. Literary Magazine: Poetry
21. Literary Magazine: Illustration
22. Literary Magazine: Photography

Graphic Design Contests: One student per school may enter each contest

23. Graphic Design: Logo (online submission)
24. Graphic Design: Infographics (online submission)
25. Graphic Design: Advertising (online submission)
26. Graphic Design: Photo illustration (online submission)

Photography Contests: One student per school may enter each contest

27. Themed Photo (online submission)
28. Sports Action Photography (online submission)
29. Sports Feature Photography (online submission)
30. Feature Photography (online submission)
31. General or Spot News Photography (online submission)
32. Photo Story (online submission)
33. Portfolio (online submission)
34. Portrait Photo (online submission)
35. First-Year Photo (online submission)

Multimedia and Broadcast Contests: Some contests allow team entries

36. Broadcast News Story (online submission; enter as individual or pair)
37. Broadcast Sports Story (online submission; enter as individual or pair)
38. Broadcast Feature Story (online submission; enter as individual or pair)
39. Broadcast Commercial/PSA (online submission; enter as individual or pair)
40. Videography (online submission: enter as individual only)
41. Podcast (online submission: enter as an individual or pair)
42. Video Package Editing (enter as individual only)
43. Online News Package (enter as individual or as team of 2 or 3)
44. Broadcast Anchor (enter as individual only)
45. Broadcast Newswriting (enter as individual only)
46. Broadcast Package (enter as a pair)

CONTEST RULES & POLICIES

Special note about online submissions

If, as the deadline approaches, a student realizes he/she will not be able to meet the upload deadline, the student may switch to an on-site category as long as no one else in the school is in that category. Advisers may go into the contest registration area and make the switch. This must be done by the deadline.
Students who do not upload their online contest entries by the deadline will be disqualified. No refunds will be given unless the adviser calls and withdraws the student no later than 14 days before the first day of the convention. The student will not be able to switch to another contest at this time.
JEA staff is available to assist with any technical difficulties encountered while getting entries submitted to the media contest website, and to consult with advisers and students to advise them in getting their entry prepared for upload. All work on the entry must be done by the student.

Convention and competition

Advisers must check in and pick up the Contestant ID labels at the contest desk during regular convention registration hours between 1-7 p.m. Thursday or before 10:30 a.m. Friday. Any student who loses their Contestant ID must get a replacement before their contest begins. Replacements are available at the contest desk when it is open or until 3 p.m. Friday in the JEA Contest Office.
Name substitutions and spelling changes may be made during registration hours until 10:30 a.m. Friday at the contest desk. Categories may not be changed.
Contestant ID labels must be presented in order to compete. Students who arrive at their contest after the start time will not get additional time and may be disqualified.
Visitors are not allowed in the contest rooms.
Results are final when contest judging closes.
If any contestant’s name, school name or identifying mark is mentioned or implied, the entry will be disqualified with few exceptions: photo and graphic design entries in which a school identification appears incidentally as part of a picture; broadcast categories where names of contestants may be used. Online News Package is also exempt.
Students are responsible for bringing all contest supplies required for the competition including paper and writing utensils. No materials will be supplied by JEA. Each contest has specific rules concerning the items allowed, so it is imperative that students carefully read the rules for their specific contest ahead of time.
No talking to other contestants is allowed other than in critique sessions. The lead judge can answer any questions.
Each contest has a lead judge who will run the contest session, distribute prompts and collect all material. Students who continue to work after time is up may be disqualified.
Online submission contests require contestants to attend an on-site critique sessions. Students must be present for the entire session or entries will be disqualified.
All entries must follow all federal laws regarding copyright.

Judging and awards

Each entry is critiqued by a minimum of two judges. Judges will not evaluate entries from their own schools.
Judges will provide written comments on the entry critique sheet or in the NSMC system. The critique sheets and comments in the critique sessions are not the only basis for how the entry is judged for the final awards. Judges take all the entries into consideration when assigning final awards. High marks and positive comments do not necessarily mean an award will be given.
If an entry indicates the student is a danger to themself or others, the contest chair is obligated to inform the JEA executive director and a representative of the school. If such an entry is found to be a hoax, the entry will be disqualified, the JEA executive director will be notified, and the school may face other disciplinary action.
The JEA contest chair and JEA executive director and/or assistant director will make all final decisions regarding contests.
Winners receive a certificate and are recognized at the JEA awards ceremony. The ratings are Superior, Excellent and Honorable Mention. Superiors, which also are awarded with a medal, are generally given to no more than 10% of the entries in any category. Judges may give as many ratings in Excellent and Honorable Mention as they choose.
Entries may be broadcast, displayed or published in JEA publications or on its affiliated websites. Entries also may be shared with the site or speakers who provided subject material. Winners’ names and schools will be published on the JEA website.
Onsite entries are available for pick up at the awards ceremony. Online entry critiques will be posted within 24 hours after the awards ceremony has concluded. Unclaimed packets with entries and awards will be mailed to the school.

All writing contests are for individuals only.

*In any event where contestants are allowed to use a dictionary, thesaurus or AP Stylebook, online sources may be used on a cellphone to access a dictionary, thesaurus or AP Stylebook, but contestants may ONLY access specific apps designated for those purposes, not general search engines like Google or Safari.

01: NEWSWRITING

You will listen to a 30-minute presentation. After a 15-minute question-and-answer period, write a news story that is no more than 350 words. It must be completed on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper in ink. Follow the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. You may only use information from the presentation and provided on the prompt.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pen (erasable ink acceptable), 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper. Optional: correction fluid, eraser, voice recorder (you may use a cellphone) with earphones, electronic spell checker, dictionary, thesaurus, Associated Press Stylebook. If you will be using a reference application on your cellphone (dictionary, thesaurus AP Stylebook ONLY) you must ask for permission and set your phone on the table where the moderators can see it.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: News writing style; informative lead hooks readers; use of facts instead of generalizations; use of direct quotes; pinpointing the news in the presentation and highlighting it with an effective angle; concise writing with good use of detail and description, well-organized story flow; accuracy; completeness; elimination of extraneous material; elimination of libelous statements; knowledge of AP style rules; few convention errors.

02: EDITORIAL WRITING

You will read several provided material sources on a contemporary topic. Using that information and your own knowledge of the topic, write an editorial that is no more than 350 words. It must be completed on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper in ink. Follow the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. The editorial would be an unsigned staff editorial for a high school newspaper. Editorials are written in third person to represent an editorial board’s opinion. You will not be allowed to do any additional research, so some knowledge of current events would be beneficial.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pen (erasable ink acceptable), 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper. Optional: correction fluid, eraser, voice recorder (you may use a cellphone) with earphones, electronic spell checkers, dictionary, thesaurus, Associated Press Stylebook. If you will be using a reference application on your cellphone (dictionary, thesaurus AP Stylebook ONLY) you must ask for permission and set your phone on the table where the moderators can see it.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Persuasive leads that come quickly to an assertion; focus on a single, manageable proposition; clear purpose; editorial format for lead, body, conclusion; opposing arguments refuted; facts to support assertion in the lead; arguments fully developed; effective organization and transitions; strong conclusion; accuracy; completeness; elimination of extraneous material and libelous statements; knowledge of AP style rules; few convention errors; third-person voice. Contestants should not use any reference to their school or publication.

03: FEATURE WRITING

You will listen to a 30-minute presentation. After a 15-minute question-and-answer period, write a feature story that is no more than 350 words. It must be completed on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper in ink. Follow the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. You may only use information from the presentation and provided on the prompt.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Attention-grabbing lead; feature style as opposed to news style; colorful details; liberal use of direct quotes and anecdotes without stating the obvious; objective and fair; copy that appeals to the readers’ interest; writing evokes emotional response; accuracy; completeness; elimination of extraneous material; clear focus of the news peg; few convention errors; avoids passive voice; avoids cliches; variety of sentence beginnings; elimination of libelous statements and knowledge of AP style rules; few convention errors.

04: SPORTS WRITING

You will listen to a presentation of no more than 30 minutes. After a 15-minute question-and-answer period, write a sports story that is no more than 350 words. It must be completed on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper in ink. Follow the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. You may only use information from the presentation and provided on the prompt.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Attention-grabbing lead; if story is a feature, the lead should be a feature lead; good story flow with effective transitions; colorful details; evokes emotional impact; use of informative direct quotes; accuracy; completeness; elimination of extraneous material; elimination of libelous statements and knowledge of AP style rules; few convention errors.

05: REVIEW WRITING

You will watch a 30-minute presentation — a one-act play, dramatic reading, dance, music, film, video — or visit a location close to the convention site. There may be an opportunity for a question-and-answer period. Write a review that is no more than 350 words. It must be completed on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper in ink. Follow the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. You will be able to use information from the presentation/site visit and prompt sheet.

This contest may require students to leave the convention hotel to compete. They will be accompanied by JEA contest chaperones.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Persuasive lead that quickly reaches assertion and/or attention-grabbing lead; clear expression of opinions; strengths and weaknesses of event or performance are clearly noted; strong, effective voice; opinions supported with details and examples; use of colorful details; well-organized story flow with good transitions; facts rather than generalizations; avoids cliche; extraneous information and libelous statements eliminated; demonstrates knowledge of AP style rules; few convention errors.

06: EDITORIAL CARTOONING

You will read several provided material sources on a contemporary topic. Draw an editorial cartoon by hand following the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. Artists may use any color/thickness of pencil, pen and/or marker for their cartoon. Submit the final copy on your own plain 8.5-by-11-inch white paper. No cellphones may be used to reference images.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Plain 8.5-by-11-inch white paper, scratch paper, sharpened pencils, any color pens and/or markers of varying thickness, correction fluid, eraser. No cellphones. Optional: ruler.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: A simple and clear editorial statement; evidence of artistic ability; a novel approach; absence of trite and melodramatic imagery; wit; effective conveyance of a message; quality of drawing; simplicity of line.

07: COMMENTARY WRITING

Commentary is used for a column written from a well-supported personal point-of-view. You will read several provided material sources on a contemporary topic. Knowledge of current events is beneficial in this contest. Write a commentary that is no more than 350 words. It must be completed on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper in ink. You may not make up or use additional facts or quotes from sources other than those provided to you. Follow the directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge. Contestants need to be careful not to make any reference to their schools or publications.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pen (erasable ink acceptable), 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper. Optional: correction fluid, eraser, voice recorder (you may use a cellphone) with earphones, electronic spell checkers, dictionary, thesaurus, Associated Press Stylebook. If you will be using a reference application on your cellphone (dictionary, thesaurus AP Stylebook only) you must ask for permission and set your phone on the table where the moderators can see it.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Writer’s opinion is clear; background information used accurately and purposefully; does not ignore or distort facts; addresses the high school audience; writer makes good use of provided material sources; voice of the commentary encourages the reader to think about the subject in a new light; first person is used effectively; follows AP style; few errors in conventions.

08: NEWS EDITING / HEADLINE WRITING / CURRENT EVENTS

You will be given a test to assess basic copy-editing and usage skills and knowledge of current events, politics and newsworthy people. You will write headlines for two stories. Please use ink. The total time for the contest, including passing out materials and giving instructions, is two hours. You will not be allowed to use cellphones or any additional resources. The format will be fill-in-the-blank, matching and short answer.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pens (erasable ink acceptable), sharpened pencils. Optional: correction fluid, eraser.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Knowledge of Associated Press style rules; knowledge of correct spelling, grammar and punctuation; sufficient knowledge of current events, geopolitics, contemporary topics and newsworthy people to recognize inaccuracies and mistakes; headlines that are spelled correctly; and headlines that reflect content of the story.

Preparing layout entries

09: NEWSPAPER DESIGN (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload a PDF to the National Student Media Contest site. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt and materials, including downloadable photos, will be available. Be careful that you do not download the material for the prior convention. All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

This is a general overview of the contest. Read all of the instructions/rules on the prompt carefully.

Use any software available to you to design a front page in black-and-white or color, using any grid or column format you choose and the size template your newspaper uses (i.e. tabloid, broadsheet).

You will design a flag/nameplate and all the page elements you choose to cover the topic(s) provided on the prompt. Only use the Contest 9 photos, stories and information for this convention’s contest.

You will use placeholder text for the copy blocks and captions, but you will write headlines. You may create your own pull quotes, illustrations and/or infographics.

Other than provided material, do all of your own work on every aspect of this layout. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides and/or original artwork by the contestant will be disqualified.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Clean layout; creativity; effective positioning of the elements; effective selection, scaling and cropping of photos; effective font choices and sizes; varied headline sizes; a clear focal point; text flow easy to follow; evidence of consideration for readers; consistent use of styles; creative graphics; a sense of personality or style.

10: NEWSMAGAZINE DESIGN (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload one PDF file to the National Student Media Contest site. The entry must be saved in a two-page view (facing pages). Entries that are submitted in a format that is not a two-page view will be critiqued but will NOT be eligible for an award. Instructions and rules appear on the contest prompt and materials which are available on the day NSMC registration opens.

With software available to you, design the designated center spread and the cover for a newsmagazine according to the directions given to you from the JEA website. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest materials, including downloadable photos, will be available. Be careful that you do not download the material for the prior convention. All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

In black-and-white or color, design the front cover and center spread/doubletruck using any grid or column format you like. The center spread must be saved as one spread that is 17 inches wide and 11 inches tall. The cover will be 8.5 by 11 inches.

Only use the Contest 10 photos, stories and information for this convention’s contest. You will use placeholder text for the copy blocks and captions, but you will write headlines. You may create your own pull quotes, illustrations and/or infographics.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Clean layout; evidence of ability to distinguish importance of stories and photos and to position them accordingly; a focal point; effective display of nameplate with full information; copy blocks, headlines, caption blocks and photos placed effectively; proper selection, cropping and scaling of photos; usage of appropriate headline sizes; consistent use of styles throughout; creative graphics.

11: PRESS LAW AND ETHICS

Students enter as individuals and take a test that assesses their knowledge and understanding of scholastic press law and ethics. This contest will include either a matching or multiple choice section and short-answer and essay sections covering First Amendment issues, landmark cases and ethical decision-making for members of the scholastic press. Complete the written portion in ink on your own 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper. The total time for the contest, including passing out materials and giving instructions, is two hours. Contestants are not allowed to use a cellphone.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pens (erasable ink acceptable). Optional: correction fluid, eraser, electronic spell checkers, dictionary, thesaurus.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Judges will look for a comprehensive understanding of media law and ethics as they apply to the scholastic media. They will also evaluate the contestants’ ability to apply the law and Society of Professional Journalists’ Code of Ethics to situations.

12: YEARBOOK COPY/CAPTION: SPORTS

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pen (erasable ink acceptable). Optional: correction fluid, eraser, electronic spell checkers, dictionary, thesaurus, Associated Press Stylebook. If you will be using a reference application on your cellphone (dictionary, thesaurus AP Stylebook only) you must ask for permission and set your phone on the table where the moderators can see it. No other reference/guidebook materials may be used. For example, no staff manuals or yearbook publisher materials may be used. Online sources may be used on a cellphone to access a dictionary, thesaurus or AP Stylebook, but contestants may ONLY access specific apps designated for those purposes, not general search engines like Google or Safari.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Good judgment in fact and quote selections; well-written active-verb copy that appeals to the reader; interesting lead; quotations used correctly and effectively; colorful details; good use of transitions; avoids cliche; original angle, focus; intriguing and inviting headline that reflects the dominant photo and directs reader to the story; minimum two-sentence captions state more than the obvious, are varied in beginnings and add to the body of reader knowledge; correct AP style; contains few convention errors.

13: YEARBOOK COPY/CAPTIONS: ACADEMICS

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pen (erasable ink acceptable). Optional: correction fluid, eraser, electronic spell checkers, dictionary, thesaurus, Associated Press Stylebook. If you will be using a reference application on your cellphone (dictionary, thesaurus AP Stylebook only you must ask for permission and set your phone on the table where the moderators can see it. No other reference/guidebook materials may be used. For example, no staff manuals or yearbook publisher materials may be used. Online sources may be used on a cellphone to access a dictionary, thesaurus or AP Stylebook, but contestants may ONLY access specific apps designated for those purposes, not general search engines like Google or Safari.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Good judgment in fact and quote selections; well-written active-verb copy that appeals to the reader; interesting lead; quotations used correctly and effectively; colorful details; good use of transitions; avoids cliche; original angle, focus; intriguing and inviting headline that reflects the dominant photo and directs reader to the story ; minimum two-sentence captions state more than the obvious, are varied in beginnings and add to the body of reader knowledge; knowledge of AP style; contains few convention errors.

14: YEARBOOK COPY/CAPTIONS: CLUBS

You will be given a fact sheet from which you will write a primary headline, secondary headline, two captions and a copy block of no more than 250 words. There is no limit on the caption length. Additional facts and quotes are included with the photos and caption information. You may intermix the information to make the best copy and captions. You may add description to your story (as if you were an eyewitness), but you may not make up facts or quotes. All these items would appear on a single DPS. Online sources may be used on a cellphone to access a dictionary, thesaurus or AP Stylebook, but contestants may ONLY access specific apps designated for those purposes, not general search engines like Google or Safari.

15: YEARBOOK COPY/CAPTION: STUDENT LIFE

16: yearbook layout: theme (online submission).

Prepare materials before the convention and upload a PDF to the National Student Media Contest website. The entry must be saved as a facing two-page spread. Entries that are submitted in a format that is not a two-page view will be critiqued but will not be eligible for an award. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt and materials, including downloadable photos, will be available. Be careful that you do not download the material for the prior convention. All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

This is a general overview of the contest. Read all the instructions/rules on the prompt carefully.

Use your available software and the template size your school uses for its yearbook and any grid/column structure you choose.

In black-and-white or color, design a double-page spread for a division page using the theme/section provided on the prompt.

You must have a minimum of one block of copy, but multiple copy units are acceptable. You will use placeholder text for copy blocks but you may create your own pull quotes, illustrations and/or infographics. You will write your own headlines. Crop, size and place the photos that are provided as you wish.

Other than the material provided for Contest 16, do all your own work on every aspect of this layout. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides and/or original artwork will be disqualified.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Adhering to instructions; designed as a double-page theme spread; impact of photos; adhering to design rules; using dominant photo; effective positioning of headlines, copy and captions; using current design trends; using point sizes for copy, headlines and captions that indicate visual hierarchy and guide reader through page; effectively balancing photos and copy; using creative graphics; effective cropping of photos; including essential layout elements such as page numbers and folio design.

17: YEARBOOK LAYOUT: INSIDE PAGES (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload a PDF to the National Student Media Contest website. The entry must be saved as a facing two-page spread. Entries that are submitted in a format that is not a two-page view will be critiqued but will NOT be eligible for an award. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt and materials, including downloadable photos, will be available. Be careful that you do not download the material for the prior convention. All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

In black-and-white or color, design a double-page layout (one spread) for the pages assigned on the prompt and the theme provided using only the photos and information provided.

Other than the material provided for Contest 17, do all your own work on every aspect of this layout. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides and/or original artwork will be disqualified.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Adhering to instructions; designed as a double-page spread; using a dominant photo; effective positioning of headlines, copy blocks and captions; using current design trends; adhering to design rules; using effective fonts and point sizes for copy, headlines and captions; adhering to visual hierarchy and guiding reader through the spread; effectively balancing photos and copy blocks; using graphics that add to design; effective cropping of photos; including essential layout elements such as page numbers and folio design.

18: YEARBOOK COVER/ENDSHEETS (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload a PDF to the National Student Media Contest website. The cover and endsheets must each be saved as facing two-page spreads. Entries that are submitted in formats that are not two-page views will be critiqued but will NOT be eligible for an award. The whole entry must be submitted as a single PDF file. That means both spreads must be combined and saved as ONE PDF for judging.

The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt and materials, including downloadable photos, will be available. Be careful that you do not download the material for the prior convention.

All contestants MUST attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

This is a general overview of the contest. Read ALL the instructions/rules on the prompt carefully.

In black-and-white or color, design the front and back cover (with a 1-inch-wide spine) and the front and back endsheets that verbally and visually reflect the theme provided on the prompt.

Be sure to include all the elements required on a cover/spine. The endsheets may include a table of contents with spin-off titles from the theme for each section of the book.

Other than the material provided for Contest 18, do all your own work on every aspect of this layout. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides and/or original artwork will be disqualified.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Cover and endsheets reflect visual and verbal representation of the theme; design conveys theme; spine includes school name, city and state, volume, year, publication name; cover includes theme, publication name, year; instructions and rules followed; graphics add to theme; effective cropping of photos (if used); creative and visually attractive.

19: LITERARY MAGAZINE: LAYOUT (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload a PDF to the National Student Media Contest website. The entry must be saved as one two-page spread. Entries that are submitted in a format that is not a two-page view will be critiqued but may not be eligible for an award. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt and materials, including downloadable photos, will be available. Be careful that you do not download the material for the prior convention. All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

Use any available software you choose to create a two-page spread for a literary magazine. The pages should be 8 1/2-by-11-inches.

Choose your own design format and any font styles and sizes that you deem appropriate. Align the poems any way you choose, but do not change the poem’s format from the way the author wrote it (line breaks).

Use only the poetry provided on the prompt.

Only use the images provided with the Contest 19 material. No other images may be used, but you may manipulate or edit the images provided.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Clean layout and design relating to selected copy; impact, action or emotion in design; instructions followed; positioning of copy, title, art, photos and captions in relation to each other; use of current graphic trends.

20: LITERARY MAGAZINE: POETRY

You will write an original poem of 10-30 lines for a literary magazine using the theme provided. Title your poem and clearly indicate your lines through indentation and use of margins. You are to exhibit your understanding of poetry, its conventions, punctuation and potential to create a setting, convey a tone, connect to feelings and to delve beyond the surface.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Pen (erasable ink acceptable), 8.5-by-11-inch lined paper. Optional: correction fluid, eraser, electronic spell checkers, dictionary, thesaurus, Associated Press Stylebook. If you will be using a reference application on your cellphone (dictionary, thesaurus AP Stylebook only) you must ask for permission and set your phone on the table where the moderators can see it. Online sources may be used on a cellphone to access a dictionary, thesaurus or AP Stylebook, but contestants may ONLY access specific apps designated for those purposes, not general search engines like Google or Safari.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Originality and creativity in developing theme, concise writing and word choice. Judges will consider use of concrete language, figurative language and imagery; use of literary devices (simile, metaphor, repetition); cadence, verb tense, and development of tone and mood to create an emotional impact. Few convention errors.

21: LITERARY MAGAZINE: ILLUSTRATION

You will prepare a piece of art to accompany a poem provided on the prompt for a literary magazine. You will have two hours to sketch and hand draw your final entry, which must be submitted on your own blank 8.5-by-11-inch paper. It may be vertical or horizontal. Contestants must supply their own drawing supplies and may use any medium they choose, including, but not limited to, pencil, pen, charcoal, markers, pastels, etc.

You may use color and/or black and white. Size of art and place in relation to the copy should be considered. You may not use professional materials like art tape, screens, letters or construction paper. Entries that do not follow contest directions will not be eligible for awards.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Plain 8.5-by-11-inch paper, scratch paper, eraser, correction fluid, any art supplies including, but not limited to, pens, charcoal, markers or pencils. Color and/or black and white is fine.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Adaptation of the art to the copy; originality in interpretation that captures the spirit of the poem prompt. Students will exhibit their control of the medium, design and artistic techniques. The work is a simple, accurate design to illustrate the context of the copy.

22: LITERARY MAGAZINE: PHOTOGRAPHY

You will shoot a photograph to accompany the poem provided on the prompt for a literary magazine. You will have approximately an hour and a half to shoot and submit one image for the contest. The photo can be either vertical or horizontal. Entries will be downloaded for judging in the contest room from your camera’s SD card. If you have a different type of storage media, bring an appropriate card reader etc. No editing of the image will be allowed, so capture a proper exposure and the crop you need when you take the picture. The entry should be a single file, JPEG (no RAW files).

Due to the nature of this contest, students are not required to stay within the convention hotel; however, students need to adhere to policies and directives from their advisers or chaperones regarding leaving the property.

Because this contest focuses on the photographic ability of the student, please use standard lenses and filters. Creative filters or specialty lenses are discouraged.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Camera with SD card or another size card with a card reader/cables to transfer the image to a laptop. Photos MUST be taken with a standard camera, not a cellphone. Contestants must set their camera to the proper local time and date. Images that do not show a timestamp within the time of the contests will not be considered for an award.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Photos that demonstrate original interpretation; photograph is framed in an interesting and visually striking way; photograph demonstrates good use of composition techniques and lighting to effectively communicate the interpretation of the poem; photograph offers effective contrast, depth-of-field and tone; the subject is not cliche. The work is a simple, accurate design to illustrate the context of the copy. Photograph will be judged based on the subject composition and technical quality.

23: GRAPHIC DESIGN: LOGO (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload ONE PDF to the National Student Media Contest site. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt will be available. Be careful that you do not download the prompt for the prior convention. All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

Using any available software, design a square logo in both full color and black-and-white (grayscale). Include both logos on the same 8 1/2-by-11-inch page.

Do not design a full advertisement, just a logo. You may come up with a slogan if you want. A logo traditionally combines art with text.

Only use the information provided on the prompt to create the logo, but you do not need to include all of the information. You may use any styles, fonts and sizes that you deem appropriate.

Only use the images provided for Contest 23 to create the logo. No other images may be used, but you may manipulate or edit the images. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides will be disqualified.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Professional typographic details; fonts, art and/or photos in the logo work well together; shows originality, creativity and innovation; work is clean and well executed; follows current design trends.

24: GRAPHIC DESIGN: INFOGRAPHICS (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Prepare materials before the convention and upload one PDF to the National Student Media Contest site. The day NSMC registration opens, the contest prompt will be available. Be careful that you do not download the prompt for the prior convention.

All contestants must attend the mandatory critique session at the convention or the entry will be disqualified.

You will be designing one infographic to accompany a news story for a publication utilizing typography and/or art and graphics. An infographic provides additional information to the reader rather than just being a visual — a diagram, chart or map that conveys information pictorially (i.e. favorite music, survey).

Using any available software, design one full-color infographic about the topic provided on the prompt. The infographic should fit on one 8 1/2-by-11-inch page.

If using software specifically designed for infographic creation (like Canva), you are encouraged to use blank templates rather than pulling pre-designed templates. Though it is not specifically banned, judges can easily spot “canned” templates and give greater award consideration to more original designs. During the critique session, contestants may be asked to discuss their process for creating the infographic.

Use only the information provided for Contest 24 to create the infographic. No other outside facts/statistics may be used. You do not need to use all of the information.

Use only the images provided for Contest 24 to create the infographic. No other images may be used, but you may manipulate or edit the images. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides will be disqualified.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Contains proper attribution for information; visually makes a point; uses appropriate format/design; typography fits topic or content; artistic details fit topic or content; design is original and follows current design trends. Includes credit lines to indicate source of information; text follows proper spelling/grammar conventions and follows AP style.

25: GRAPHIC DESIGN: ADVERTISING (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

This is a general overview of the contest. Read all instructions/rules on the prompt carefully.

Using any available software, design a 5-by-7-inch advertisement in black-and-white or color.

Use only the information provided for Contest 25 to create the advertisement. You do not need to use all of the information.

Use only the images provided for Contest 25 to create the advertisement. No other images may be used, but you may manipulate the images provided. Entries that use images or material other than what JEA provides will be disqualified.

If you use software made for graphic design creation (like Canva), you are encouraged to use blank templates rather than pre-designed templates. Though it is not specifically banned, judges can easily spot “canned” templates and give greater award consideration to more original designs. During the critique session, contestants may be asked to discuss the process they used for creating their advertisement.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Typography and artistic details fit topic or content; follows current design trends; creative and imaginative concept; considers what motivates audience. Includes appropriate pitch, business, event or organizational identification; design moves reader’s eye through the ad.

26: GRAPHIC DESIGN: PHOTO ILLUSTRATION (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Design a photo illustration, not an infographic. A photo illustration is a type of digital art that begins with a digital photograph. Using image enhancement software, the artist can then apply a variety of special effects to transform the photo into art.

For the entry, shoot a photograph and then manipulate it using whatever software (Photoshop or a similar program/app) you choose so that it can accompany a story package for publication in a high school newspaper or newsmagazine on the subject that is presented in the article appearing on the contest prompt.

The photo illustration may be black-and-white and/or color. It must fit in an 8 1/2-by-11-inch space.

Be sure to only use images you created. No stock photos/copyrighted material may be incorporated into the photo illustration that you submit.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Follows current design trends; visually communicates an idea; shows originality and innovation; shows creativity and artistic details. Clean and well-executed work; sophisticated use of software.

All photography contests are for individuals only.

General Requirements

All images must have been published in the scholastic media during this academic year (in print or online) or planned for publication during this academic year — except those in Themed Photo and Portfolio.
No image may have been entered in a previous JEA NSMC — except those in Portfolio.
Entrants are responsible for attending a two-hour group critique session. Entrants who do not attend the entire critique will be disqualified.
Images submitted into the contest may be cropped from how they appeared or will appear in the publication.
Photos may be color (RGB) or black-and-white (grayscale) or a combination of color and black-and-white.
Note the number of photos required for each contest entry. If a contest requires three photos and the student does not upload three photos by the deadline, the entry will be disqualified.
Do not bring physical or digital images to the convention or mail them in. All critiques will be completed online.
Do not submit images in which the content has been significantly digitally altered. Do not submit images created using artificial intelligence tools. Such images should be entered in Contest 26: Graphic Design – Photo Illustration. Photo illustrations are acceptable as part of a portfolio in Contest 33: Portfolio.

Technical Requirements

Entrants should visit Preparing Photo Entries for complete and detailed instructions.
Photos must be no more than 5000 pixels in the long direction and saved as RGB (or grayscale), JPEG files. (For example: In Adobe Photoshop, adjust the photo’s size under Image > Image Size.) The system will reject any images that do not fit these requirements.
Captions must be included in the Description field. Photographer’s name must be included in the Author field. (For example: In Adobe Photoshop, go to File > File Info.)
Photographers should use the Save As … function, not Export. Exported images exported do not contain the required metadata and will be rejected by the contest system.
For contests with multiple photo submissions, entrants should upload images one at a time in the exact order judges should view them.

27: THEMED PHOTO (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Photos for this category do not need to have been published in scholastic media nor considered for publication.

Submit ONE image related to a theme that will be released via social media, email distribution lists and online at jea.org when the NSMC contest registration opens. Photos taken before the theme is released may not be used in this contest, and the metadata embedded in the image will be used should a question arise regarding when an image was taken.

The photograph must be taken by the entrant. A full caption should be included with a brief discussion about how the photo relates to the theme.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter; technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. Quality of the caption may also be considered.

28: SPORTS ACTION PHOTOGRAPHY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

You will submit THREE sports action photos.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter; technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; story told in each photograph; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. Judges also will look for a variety of sports-related images, not three similar images. Quality of the caption may also be considered.

29: SPORTS FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Submit THREE images related to sports. The images should not be sports action photos.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter; technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; story told in each photograph; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. Judges will also look for a variety of images, not three similar images. Quality of the caption may also be considered.

30: FEATURE PHOTOGRAPHY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Submit THREE feature images, typically found moments or slices of life — not sports. Pictorial images — images that show graphic and aesthetic qualities of a person or group with strong emphasis on composition — may also be entered here.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter, technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; story told in each photograph; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. Judges also will look for a variety of images, not three similar images. This can include any aspect of student life. Quality of caption may also be considered.

31: GENERAL OR SPOT NEWS PHOTOGRAPHY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Submit ONE news image — not sports. Includes coverage of events for which no planning was possible. Examples include, but are not limited to, accidents, fires and natural disasters. Also includes coverage of planned events when advanced notice was possible. Examples include, but are not limited to, speakers on campus, news conferences, mock exercises and campaigns.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter, technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; story told in photograph; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. Quality of caption may also be considered.

32: PHOTO STORY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Submit THREE, FOUR OR FIVE photographs related to a common theme and visually tell a story. Upload the photos one at a time in the exact order the judges should view them. Include the order number of each image in the Description field with the caption: “Photo 1 — <caption>,” for example.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter; technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; story told in each photograph as well as in the package of images; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. Upload each image separately. Quality of caption for each individual image also may be considered.

33: PORTFOLIO (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Photos for this category do not need to have been published in scholastic media nor considered for publication. **A student may enter the portfolio contest only once during their high school career.

This is a contest for expert high school photographers. It is designed to help photographers, generally graduating seniors, prepare for scholarship applications, internship applications or job interviews by giving them the opportunity to prepare a portfolio and to have it critiqued by a professional. Students should submit a MINIMUM OF FIVE images and a MAXIMUM OF EIGHT images that reflect their abilities as a photojournalist. Upload photos one at a time in the exact order the judges should view them. Include the order number of each image in the Description field with the caption: “Photo 1 — <caption>,” for example. Captions for images in this competition may be a simple title but may also be full journalistic captions.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Strong, clear voice within a variety of assignments; creativity; technical quality; photo composition; visual impact; simplicity; effective cropping; and lighting. Quality of the caption may also be considered as will presentation of the entire portfolio.

34: PORTRAIT PHOTO (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

Submit ONE portrait, either a formal portrait or an environmental portrait.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Imaginative subject matter; technical quality and excellence; photo composition; visual impact; simplicity; cropping; and lighting. The caption, although required, should include the name of the individual in the photograph with some identifying characteristics such as grade, major, sport or activity as well as some additional information about the person, perhaps a quote from the person. Students should not enter mugshots, sometimes called head shots, but may enter portraits taken in a studio.

35: FIRST-YEAR PHOTO (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Only students in their first year of any journalism, photojournalism or media class (or in their first year on a media staff if the campus does not offer such classes) are eligible for this competition.

Submit ONE photo of any subject matter. A full caption should be included.

Preparing photo entries

Check each contest to see if it is for an individual or if a team entry is allowed. If team entry is allowed, you will need to scroll down on the NSMC registration page to see the list “Team Contests” to register students for the event.

Online Submission Requirements

Publication Requirement for Contests 36-39: The entry must have been broadcast sometime between April of this calendar year and the submission date for the fall convention and during the current school year for the spring convention.
Use of Outside Material for Contests 36-39: Students must provide documentation that all audio, video and photographic material included in an entry belongs to the school submitting the work. This can be done by including evidence of subscription, purchase, license agreement or contract in the YouTube or Vimeo video description of your entry or by emailing it to Broadcast Coordinator A.J. Chambers , MJE. Failure to do so will result in no award and disqualification. (Example: Big Horns Intro by Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license https://www.youtube.com/audiolibrary/music) For ALL ONLINE SUBMISSION CONTESTS:
Use this link for specific submission instructions for preparing broadcast contest entries. For questions contact [email protected] or A.J. Chambers ,
Entrants must attend a two-hour group critique. Entrants who do not attend the entire critique will be disqualified.
No entry may have been submitted for a previous JEA contest.
If an online submission entry is by a team of two students, each student must be entered in the contest and pay, but only one team member is required to be in attendance at the convention at the critique session.

36: BROADCAST NEWS STORY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Students enter as individuals or in pairs. Total Running Time (TRT) 1:30 to 5:00 minutes. A news story shows a clear reliance on the news values of timeliness, proximity, conflict, impact and prominence.

A package is a prerecorded story containing (usually) a reporter’s voice-over, videotaped shots and sound bites.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Adherence to broadcast style (short sentences, present tense, conversational, clear). Contains all the necessary information and exhibits news judgment. Video sound bites are well-shot close-ups, relevant and interesting. A variety of shots are used and are steady and in focus. Editing is free of glitches and jump cuts, and natural sound is used effectively. Overall, the script and video complement each other, telling the story in an interesting and informative manner. The voice-over is effective and delivered with clarity. Time limit is met + or – 3 seconds.

37: BROADCAST SPORTS STORY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Students enter as individuals or in pairs. Total Running Time (TRT) 1:30 to 4:00 minutes. Broadcast sports stories may be focused on a news event and be timely stories that address serious topics related to athletics. For example, these may include investigative reports about facilities, drug use, injuries, budgets, scholarships, rules and regulations, etc. Or, the story may be a feature that covers sports-related people, art or culture. This may include profiles, reviews or other sports stories related to community events, figures or places.

A package is a prerecorded story containing a reporter’s voice-over, videotaped shots and sound bites.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Adherence to broadcast style (short sentences, present tense, conversational, clear). Contains all the necessary information and provides a new perspective. Video sound bites are well shot close-ups, relevant and interesting. A variety of shots are used, steady and in focus. Editing is free of glitches and jump cuts, and natural sound is used effectively. Overall, the script and video complement each other, telling the story in an interesting and informative manner. The voice-over is effective and delivered with liveliness and clarity. Time limit is met + or – 3 seconds.

38: BROADCAST FEATURE STORY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Students enter as individuals or in pairs. Total Running Time (TRT) 1:30 to 4:00 minutes. A broadcast feature story is one that covers people, art or culture. This may include profiles, reviews or other stories related to community events, figures or places.

39: BROADCAST COMMERCIAL/PSA (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Students enter as individuals or in pairs. Total Running Time (TRT) must be exactly 30 seconds or 1 minute. The piece entered must be produced for school announcements or TV programs. Commercials should publicize school events, activities and social functions. PSAs should attempt to shed light on an issue or situation of importance to teens.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: A strong overall impact is critical. Judges will watch for solid videography; editing, audio, graphics/effects and pacing will all be considered. Content material should be accurate and appropriate to the message being delivered. Entries must not exceed either the 30- or 60-second maximum length.

40: VIDEOGRAPHY (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Individual entries only. Total Running Time (TRT) 1:30-2:00 minutes. When NSMC registration opens, a theme will be released via social media, email distribution lists and online at jea.org. Contestants must shoot a video essay addressing some aspect of the topic. It is up to each entrant individually to decide the way in which they present the broad topic provided.

No interviews may be included. This is a story told by video and natural sounds ONLY. NO MUSIC TRACKS SHOULD BE USED — including recording someone singing as anything more than a short clip of NAT sound. Use of any stock footage or earlier recorded footage is not permitted.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: The judges will evaluate overall videography skills displayed including, but not limited to, creative angles, sequences, use of proper technique, ability to utilize natural sound, development of a story line addressing the general topic and the overall impact of the piece. Time limit is met + or – 3 seconds.

41: PODCAST (ONLINE SUBMISSION)

*Students enter as individuals or in pairs. Total Running Time (TRT) 5:00-10:00 minutes. When NSMC registration opens, a theme will be released via social media, email distribution lists and online at jea.org. Students will produce a scripted podcast following the contest theme provided. Upload the podcast to a preferred hosting platform (e.g., SoundCloud, Podomatic, Anchor, Podbean, etc.) and provide a link. Be sure the podcast is set to public.

Reminder: Do not use copyrighted sound effects or music in the podcast, unless they fall under limited fair use exceptions. So, either do not use any sound effects or music in the podcast, create your own using instruments or audio editing software, use copyright-free, royalty free or items in the public domain.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: The judges will evaluate originality, creativity, clarity, journalistic value, technical value and adherence to the time limit.

42: VIDEO PACKAGE EDITING

*Individual entries only. Students entering this contest will be evaluated on their ability to edit video and audio in their creation of a news package. JEA will provide a collection of video/audio clips for contestants to choose from. Clips will include interviews and b-roll. Contestants will download all of the clips, choose what elements to use in the final product, edit using their own equipment and submit the exported final package to the judges. The total time allowed for the contest including giving the instructions and downloading materials is three hours.

The final TRT is to be 1:30. Entries outside +/- 3 seconds of the required time will be disqualified.

Students may not receive help from anyone and must work in the contest room. Do not add any additional video or sound. Name keys or lower thirds may be added using their school’s standard graphics.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: All video editing equipment (laptop with video editing software, extension cord, headphones, etc.) Be sure the laptop has enough memory to download a number of video clips, edit the material and export the video. Bring an external hard drive if necessary.

SUBMISSION NOTE: When the entry is complete, it must be exported as an .MPEG4, MP4 or .MOV file and named with the Contestant ID ONLY. Contestants should remain in the room until the judge has the entry saved, and is sure it opens and can be viewed by the judges.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Attention-grabbing introduction; effective use of interviews; transitions that move the story along; storyline is effectively developed; structure is well thought out; b-roll that supports interviews; effective use of natural sound; editing free of glitches; time limit is met + or – 3 seconds.

43: ONLINE NEWS PACKAGE

* Students enter as individuals or in a team of no more than three students. Students will create a multimedia news package and post it to their own school’s news website. Only students may post the material, so they should come prepared for the contest with the knowledge and appropriate passwords to do so. No tech support will be available in the contest room.

The comprehensive online news package should include a main story with photo(s) that are captioned and credited, and two or more of these or similar elements: audio, infographics, interactive reader feature, links to related information, pull quotes, sidebar, slideshow, social media coverage, video (b-roll/nat sound), video story package (no more than 3:00 TRT).

Note: This is an all-day event. See the convention program or app for the specific time and place for the morning orientation meeting. At the orientation, teams will receive the specific topic and then have between three-four hours to gather information for the online package and then about three hours to edit, post and submit the assignment.

This contest may require students to leave the convention hotel to compete. They will be accompanied by JEA contest chaperones, but not directly supervised the entire time.

Deadlines will be enforced so plan accordingly. Problems with technology will NOT be an excuse for missing the deadline. Do not wait until the last second to post material. The entry must be posted to the school’s website by the deadline, and a Google Form must be completed. A link to the form will be provided by the lead judge. Only students entered in the contest can produce the video/photo/copy etc. for the entry.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: All hardware/software needed for producing an online multimedia package (laptop computer, power cords, cameras, memory cards, memory card readers, video cameras, digital recorders, power strip, microphones, tripods, headphones, editing software, etc.)

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Overall Content: Overall package includes the required content and provides comprehensive look at assigned topic; goes beyond the text to enhance reader’s experience; video/audio is used for impact and enhances story content; each element is captioned and credited as needed; package includes multiple layers of coverage beyond just text and photos; use of elements beyond the main story (photos, videos, pull-quotes, polls, etc.) that promote/enhance story content and prevent long blocks of text.

Broadcast Conventions: Steady camera work; editing free of glitches, jump cuts; interesting, focused and varied shots; sequencing is logical; video/audio is good quality following appropriate broadcast conventions (b-roll, interviews, sound quality, lighting, framing); general broadcast style evident (short sentences, present tense, conversational tone).

General Conventions: Written material follows AP style; contains few convention errors (spelling/grammar); copy focuses on a clear, interesting, central, specific angle; copy illustrates overall mastery of journalistic writing (accuracy, balance, clarity/conciseness, objectivity and timeliness); copy effectively considers audience interest; answers all important five W’s and H.

Package Presentation: Content is accessible and easy to navigate; text formatted with no large blank spaces, missing paragraph breaks, strange fonts, odd symbols, etc.; photos display at a proper resolution & proportion, are not oddly cropped and do not show up in the story more than once.

44: BROADCAST ANCHOR

*Individual entries only. All contestants will attend a brief, orientation meeting in the morning to get assigned times for receiving the contest prompt, reporting to finalize/practice their script and competing live for the judges. Each contestant will have the same amount of time to compete.

Contestants will write and read a script that must include an introduction, three stories and a sign-off. Contestants will be evaluated on the ability to develop that script from the information provided as well as the ability to “report” on a convention-related story based on a topic they are given.

The anchor report will include three total stories. Every contestant will be given three sets of notes. From those, they will choose two to use in the report. For the third item, they will only get a convention-related topic, and will have to go and get information (facts/quotes) to write a story to include in the final script.

Contestants will receive the contest prompt with the story notes and topic at the time they are assigned in the orientation meeting.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: Note-taking materials (pencil/pen, notebook), timing device. Students may use a watch with a second hand, a stopwatch or a mobile phone switched to airplane mode. The final script may be written on paper or on a device such as a laptop or tablet.

Note: A countdown clock will be provided in the contest room, but there will NOT be a teleprompter. Students may use their own teleprompter app or website on their own device.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: *This is an anchor contest. Judges always lean toward performance and ability to deliver the news. Professional dress is expected.

Script: Evidence of good news judgment; relevant 5 W & H information selected; strong angles presented; strong reporting of additional story; catchy, attention-grabbing lead; strong introduction; creative angles featured; details, word choice convey story with clarity; relevant quotes/paraphrased information used and attributed correctly; does not include reporter opinion; stories are balanced and avoid bias; correct broadcast style used (short, present-tense sentences are conversational and written for the ear); strong closing; overall a well-developed script.

Performance: 1:30 time limit met (+ / – 3 seconds); smooth transitions between stories; maintains eye contact; appropriate voice tone and inflection; professional delivery; strong on-camera presence and poise.

45: BROADCAST NEWSWRITING

Students will be given five recent articles from national and/or local sources that a news anchor would read without video or as a voice-over while viewers would see the shots of the event in progress. The news story must be based only on the materials provided. Total Running Time (TRT) 1:30. Follow additional directions given on the prompt sheet and by the lead judge.

Contestants must use a MINIMUM OF THREE stories in the final script; they do not need to use all of the provided stories, but may use all of them if you choose. Prioritize stories according to news value. Begin with an introduction, such as, “I’m AJ Chambers, and this is your morning news update.” Finish with some sort of closing, such as, “That’s a brief look at news. I’m AJ Chambers reporting.”

SUPPLIES NEEDED: 8 1/2-by-11-inch lined paper, pen, timing device. Contestants may use a watch with a second hand, a stopwatch or a mobile phone switched to airplane mode.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: News content is accurately conveyed; script exhibits good news judgment; relevant, important information selected; catchy, attention-grabbing lead; strong introduction; creative/strong angles featured for each piece presented; relevant quotes/paraphrased information used and attributed correctly; details and word choice convey each story with clarity; stories include all important 5 W’s and H; does not include reporter opinion; stories are balanced and avoid bias; includes clear, logical transitions between stories; correct broadcast writing style used (short, present-tense sentences are conversational and written for the ear); broadcast includes a strong closing; overall a well-developed script; sequenced appropriately; uses proper grammar; when judges read script, it meets the time limit (1:30 + / – 3 seconds)

46: BROADCAST PACKAGE

* Students enter in teams of two students

Note: This is an all-day event. All contestants must attend a brief, orientation meeting in the morning where they will be given the story package topic. Then they will have about four hours to gather information for a story package and then three hours to edit the material and submit the assignment. See the convention program or app for the specific time and place for the orientation meeting.

Total Running Time (TRT) for the entry is 1:30.

Deadlines will be enforced so plan accordingly. Rendering and copying is part of the process and will not be allowed after time has expired. All editing must be done in the contest room with no outside help from the adviser or other students. An additional room will be available to record voice-over.

SUPPLIES NEEDED: All hardware/software needed for producing a broadcast package (laptop computer with USB port, power cords, video cameras, memory cards, memory card readers, power strip, microphones, tripods, headphones, editing software, etc.)

SUBMISSION NOTE: Entries will be collected by the judges on a flash drive. When your entry is complete, export it and save as an .MPEG4, MP4 or .MOV file and name it with your Contestant ID ONLY. Teams should remain in the room until the judge has the entry saved, and is sure the submission opens and can be viewed by the judges.

WHAT THE JUDGES WILL LOOK FOR: Demonstrates effective broadcast style: short sentences, present tense, conversational; necessary and interesting information selected; includes facts that support assertions made; includes an effectively developed storyline; script and video combine to tell the story; all segments are on topic; includes strong organization including an attention-grabbing introduction; includes relevant and interesting sound bites; ambiance of event/location captured effectively with b-roll, natural sound; includes interesting and informative voice-over; includes correctly framed and focused close-ups; evidence of good editing, free of glitches and jump cuts; demonstrates effective use of pacing and transitional elements; meets the time limit (1:30 + / – 3 seconds)

Instructions for Online Submission of Videos

The JEA National Student Media Contests (NSMC) will be opened for registration and online entry uploading approximately eight weeks before each convention and will close about three weeks prior to the convention.

The Junior High/Middle School National Media Contest is a spring contest.

Can a student enter more than one contest?

For NSMC: No. Each student may enter just one contest.

For Junior High/Middle School National Media Contest a student may enter more than one contest category, but they may only have one entry per contest category (unless they are part of a team).

I have more newspaper students coming registered for the convention than there are newspaper categories but I want all my students to have the NSMC experience. What should I do?

As long as other staffs from your school won’t be filling the slots, your staff members may enter any literary magazine, yearbook, photography, graphic design, law, online news or broadcast category.

What happens if my student doesn’t get his/her entry uploaded by the deadline?

Unfortunately, the student will be disqualified.

I can’t get the payment processed before the contest deadline. Can I still register my students?

Yes, as long as your students are registered by the contest deadline, payment may come later, either online through the contest system or by mail. Payment must be received by the convention start date.

Make checks payable to Journalism Education Association 014 Kedzie Hall 828 Mid-Campus Dr. S. Manhattan, KS 66506

Purchase orders may be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to the above address.

Do I need to have working emails, usernames and passwords for all my registered students?

Yes. This is particularly crucial for students doing online submissions. You might want to write them down as you register them since this is how they will login to get their photography, broadcast, graphic design and layout critiques.

I can log in to jea.org but can’t seem to get into the NSMC system. What do I do?

You will have the same username as the JEA members area but a different password for the NSMC system. You may set it up as the same as your member password but the membership and NSMC systems will not automatically work on the same username and password.

Committee & Judges

The awards committee meets at each convention to plan and coordinate all of JEA’s award programs.

Teacher awards

Learn more ›

Student awards

Grades 6-12
School Leaders

Don’t Miss Our List of the Top 2024-25 Competitions for Students in Grades K-12! 🏆

Every product is independently selected by our team of teacher-reviewers and editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

The Best Student Writing Contests for 2024-2025

Help your students take their writing to the next level.

When students write for teachers, it can feel like an assignment. When they write for a real purpose, they are empowered! Student writing contests are a challenging and inspiring way to try writing for an authentic audience— a real panel of judges —and the possibility of prize money or other incentives. We’ve gathered a list of the best student writing contests, and there’s something here for everyone. Prepare highly motivated kids in need of an authentic writing mentor, and watch the words flow.

2024-2025 Student Writing Contests

1. the scholastic art & writing awards.

With a wide range of categories—from critical essays to science fiction and fantasy—the Scholastic Awards are a mainstay of student contests. Each category has its own rules and word counts, so be sure to check out the options before you decide which one is best for your students.

How To Enter

Students in grades 7 to 12, ages 13 and up, may begin submitting work in September by uploading to an online account at Scholastic and connecting to their local region. Entry fees are waived for students in need.

2. YoungArts National Arts Competition

YoungArts offers an annual national competition in the categories of creative nonfiction, novel, play or script, poetry, short story, and spoken word. Student winners may receive awards of up to $10,000 as well as the chance to participate in artistic development with leaders in their fields.

Check out the site for guidelines on writing modes, such as short stories and spoken word poetry, and sign up for updates so you’re ready when the applications open.

Promo image of a high school girl for The Edit, a digital storytelling challenge.

FEATURED PICK

3. The Edit

The Edit is a digital storytelling challenge from NBCU Academy and Adobe. Your middle or high school students will build critical communication and collaboration skills as they plan, script, and produce their own 90-second video news reports on wellness topics. Winning classrooms will be rewarded with prizes like GoPros, Fandango gift cards, and more!

It’s free to enter. All submissions must be received by March 3, 2025.

4. Write the World Competitions

Not only is Write the World one of my favorite places to find writing resources, but it also hosts free monthly contests with cash prizes. There are also opportunities for feedback, and lots of ideas to help students get started.

With a student account, young writers draft and submit their work on the website. ADVERTISEMENT

5. National Youth Foundation Programs

Each year, awards are given for Student Book Scholars, Amazing Women, and the “I Matter” Poetry & Art competition. This is a great chance for kids to express themselves with joy and strength.

The rules, prizes, and deadlines vary, so check out the website for more info.

6. American Foreign Service National High School Essay Contest

If you’re looking to help students take a deep dive into international relations, history, and writing, look no further than this essay contest. Winners receive a voyage with the Semester at Sea program and a trip to Washington, D.C.

Students fill out a registration form online, and a teacher or sponsor is required. The deadline to enter is March 1, 2025.

7. Poets.org’s Annual Dear Poet Contest

Each year during National Poetry Month in April, students can write letters to famous poets in response to their work. In this interactive contest, all submissions receive a general letter and certificate, and winners receive a personalized response from the poet they wrote to. It’s a great way to #TeachLivingPoets, and kids get to ask questions about the creative process.

Return to the site in April to find the forms for submitting letters. A guardian or teacher must also provide a letter so the submissions can be published.

8. John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest

This annual contest invites students to write about an elected official’s act of political courage that occurred anytime after 1917, the year Kennedy was born. The winner receives $10,000, and 16 runners-up also receive a variety of cash prizes.

Students may submit a 700- to 1,000-word essay through January 12. The essay must feature more than five sources and a full bibliography.

9. WriteCause Competitions

These free quarterly contests accept a variety of written submissions, each based on a different quarterly theme. WriteCause also provides research links so students can learn about the topics before writing. Open to kids ages 13 to 18.

Check out the Compete link for contest information each quarter, and use the online submission form.

10. The Princeton Ten-Minute Play Contest

Looking for student writing contests for budding playwrights? This exclusive competition, which is open only to high school juniors, is judged by the theater faculty of Princeton University. Students submit short plays in an effort to win recognition and cash prizes of up to $500. (Note: Only open to 11th graders.)

Students submit one 10-page play script online or by mail. The deadline will be announced later this year.

11. Princeton University Poetry Contest for High School Students

The Leonard L. Milberg ’53 High School Poetry Prize recognizes outstanding work by student writers in 11th grade. Prizes range from $100 to $500.

Students in 11th grade can submit their poetry. Contest details will be published this fall.

12. The New York Times Tiny Memoir Contest

This contest is also a wonderful writing challenge, and the New York Times includes lots of resources and models for students to be able to do their best work. They’ve even made a classroom poster !

Submissions need to be made electronically by November 1.

13. The New York Times Contest Calendar

For students who want to extend beyond 100-word memoirs, the New York Times also provides competitive opportunities in areas including photography, opinion pieces, and podcasting.

Find an area that students are interested in and check out the rules and deadlines.

14. The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers

The Patricia Grodd Poetry Prize for Young Writers is open to high school sophomores and juniors, and the winner receives a full scholarship to a Kenyon Review Young Writers Workshop .

Submissions for the prize are accepted electronically from November 1 through November 30.

15. Jane Austen Society Essay Contest

High school students can win up to $1,000 and publication by entering an essay on a topic specified by the Jane Austen Society related to a Jane Austen novel.

Details for the 2024 contest will be announced in November. Essay length is from six to eight pages, not including works cited.

16. Rattle Young Poets Anthology

Open to students from 15 to 18 years old who are interested in publication and exposure over monetary awards.

Teachers may choose up to five students to submit up to four poems each on their behalf. The deadline is November 15.

17. The Black River Chapbook Competition

This is a chance for new and emerging writers to gain publication in their own professionally published chapbook, as well as $500 and free copies of the book.

There is an $18 entry fee, and submissions are made online.

18. YouthPlays New Voices

Young writers under 18 create new one-act plays for the stage. Winners receive cash awards and publication.

Scroll all the way down their web page for information on the contest, which accepts non-musical plays between 10 and 40 minutes long, submitted electronically. The entry period opens each year in January.

19. The Ocean Awareness Contest

The theme for the 2025 Ocean Awareness Contest is “Connections to Nature: Looking Inside, Going Outside.” Students are eligible for a wide range of monetary prizes up to $1,000.

Students from 11 to 18 years old may submit work in the categories of art, creative writing, poetry and spoken word, film, interactive media and multimedia, or music and dance, accompanied by a reflection. The deadline is June 13.

20. EngineerGirl Annual Writing Contest

Each year, EngineerGirl sponsors an essay contest with topics centered on the impact of engineering on the world, and students can win up to $500 in prize money. This contest is a nice bridge between ELA and STEM and great for teachers interested in incorporating an interdisciplinary project into their curriculum. The new contest asks for pieces describing the life cycle of an everyday object. Check out these tips for integrating the content into your classroom .

Students submit their work electronically by February 1. Check out the full list of rules and requirements here .

21. NCTE Student Writing Awards

The National Council of Teachers of English offers several student writing awards, including Achievement Awards in Writing (for 10th- and 11th-grade students), Promising Young Writers (for 8th-grade students), and an award to recognize Excellence in Art and Literary Magazines.

Deadlines range from October 28 to February 15. Check out NCTE.org for more details.

22. Narrative High School Writing Contest

The prompt for Narrative’s 10th Annual Writing Contest is “What I Cannot Say, I’ll Say Here.” Stories are limited to 600 words, and kids can also enter poems of no more than 50 lines. The website also provides different ideas and insights to help students approach the prompt.

Students in grades 9 through 12 submit their work through their teacher, who may submit up to 10 pieces.

23. US vs HATE Contests

Engage social media-savvy students with this creative contest that seeks messages of kindness, inclusivity, and bridge-building.

Check the website for an informational poster as well as guidelines and ideas about how students can submit their work.

24. National PTA Reflections Awards

The National PTA offers a variety of awards, including one for literature, in their annual Reflections Contest. Students of all ages can submit entries on the specified topic to their local PTA Reflections program. From there, winners move to the local area, state, and national levels. National-level awards include an $800 prize and a trip to the National PTA Convention.

This program requires submitting to PTAs who participate in the program. Check your school’s PTA for their deadlines.

25. World Historian Student Essay Competition

The World Historian Student Essay Competition is an international contest open to students enrolled in grades K through 12 in public, private, and parochial schools, as well as those in home-study programs. The $500 prize is based on an essay that addresses one of this year’s two prompts.

Students can submit entries via email or regular mail before May 1.