We’ve put together a list of writing contests or places to publish short works. These channels are ideal for young adults (teens), especially those interested in writing sci-fi and fantasy. Scroll through, put it in your calendar and get writing. If you have any you’d like to add to the list, comment below.

Odyssey Con (January)

This contest is held annually for young writers interested in science fiction, fantasy or horror. There is no cost to enter, and you must be 18 years old or younger for the youth division. First place wins $50. View their page for more information.

Annual Parsec SF/Fantasy/Horror Short Story Contest (Jan – March)

Each year there is a theme for this contest, and they allow original, unpublished stories within the genres of science fiction, fantasy or horror. Visit their page for more information.

Beyond Time – Sci-Fi Writing Contest (June – July)

There is no word limit to your submission. There are three first-place, second-place and third-place winners. Visit their page for more information.

Hither&Thither TALES OF MAGIC – Fantasy Writing Contest (August)

There is no word limit for this contest, and they encourage writers of all ages to submit their stories. Multiple entries are welcome, but only once prize is given out. View their page for more information.

Rattle Young Poets Anthology (ends in June)

This contest is great for your past work. You must have been 15 years old or younger when you wrote your poem, and must be 18 years old or younger upon submission. Ends on June 15, 2017. View their page for more information.

Teen Ink Writing Submissions (Year-round)

Teen Ink offers writing contests in a variety of areas including fiction, nonfiction, poetry, cover art and more. The prize is publication in their magazine along with a free copy. Visit their page for more information.

Creative Minds Contests (dates vary)

They offer three contest for applicants 18 years or younger. The contests include poetry, nonfiction/essay and short fiction. The deadlines vary based on the competition type. The poetry competition is open from April – July. The nonfiction competition is open from August – November. And the short fiction competition is open from December – March. Visit their page for more information.

Canvas Literary Journal (published quarterly)

Get your work published in a teen literary magazine. Canvas Literary Journal is looking for writers between the ages of 13-18 to submit works of fiction, nonfiction, novel excerpts, plays, poetry and more. Look carefully at their submission rules because there are certain pieces they will not accept. Also consider their notice of Rights, because once your work is accepted, Canvas states that they “acquire first North American serial publication rights, after which, the copyright reverts to the author.” Visit their page for more information.

The Claremont Review (Sept – April)

The Claremont Review accepts submissions from students ages 13 – 19 in the following categories: poetry, short fiction, plays, visual art and photography. One thing they emphasize are pieces that explore real characters and real emotion. Visit their page for more information.

The New Voices One-Act Competition for Young Playwrights (Ends May 1)

Have you ever written a play? Send your best play to this contest and you will have a chance to win money and other gifts from sponsors. This contest is open until May 1. If you’ve missed the deadline, don’t worry. It means you have more time to polish your work. Visit their page for more information.

Scholastic Art & Writing Awards (Sept – Dec)

Are you a visionary? Are you an original thinker? The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards has been empowering young talent since 1923. This competition is open for grades 7^th –12^th and has a submission period from September – December. Visit their page for more information.

National Young Arts (October)

Are you an artist at heart? This contest goes beyond writing and identifies creative students in literary, performance and visual art. The contest is open to students ages 15-18. Winners of this contest are eligible for nomination as a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, which is one of the most prestigious awards for a high school student. Visit their page for more information.

Young Authors Writing Competition (Columbia College, Chicago) (Nov – Jan)

This contest began as a local competition and grew over time into an internationally recognized writing contest for high school students. This contest is open for students in 9^th grade – 12^th grade. First prize receives $300. Visit their page for more information.

University of Iowa – Hemingway Festival High School Writing Contest (January)

This contest is open to all 11^th and 12^th graders and offers entry into the following categories: fiction/creative nonfiction, academic essay and poetry. Submission deadline is in January and winners are announced in February. Visit their page for more information.

Aerie International Journal (February)

This unique journal was designed, edited and published by high school students. Submit your work to the Aerie Journal, and if your piece is selected, you will win $100 and a copy of the magazine. The competition is open to students in 9^th grade – 12^th grade. Visit their page for more information.

Hanging Loose Magazine (Year-round)

This magazine invites high school students to submit their poetry or short stories for publication as well as payment if selected. This is open to high school students ages 9-12. Visit their page for more information.

Hypernova Lit (Closed until June 2017)

Hypernova Lit is a magazine that publishes writing and art. This is not a contest, but is a chance to get your work published and circulated. You are invited to submit short stories, long stories and poetry. View their page for more information.

Chicago Tribune Nelson Algren Literary Contest (January)

This contest has some amazing cash prizes. Submit an original piece up to 8000 words for the chance of $3500. Visit their page for more information.

Fantasy Faction (Monthly)

This website offers a monthly sci-fi/fantasy writing contest. Submissions are published on their website. Details about the contest are not as easily found; however, you can visit their forum page for more information. Click here to view previous winners.