How to Find and Win Free Writing Contests

Writing contests are one of the best ways for new writers to get published, build a portfolio, and gain confidence. And many of the best contests are completely free to enter. Here's how to find them, what to look for, and how to give your submission the best chance.

Where to Find Free Contests

Several websites curate lists of writing contests and update them regularly. Some of the most reliable include Reedsy's contest directory, FundsforWriters, and Erica Verrillo's monthly contest roundups on Medium (published under "Curiosity Never Killed the Writer"). These sites filter out scams and highlight contests with no entry fees.

You can also search for contests through literary magazines, writing organizations, and community groups. Many local arts councils run annual competitions that don't charge fees.

How to Spot a Legitimate Contest

Not all contests are worth your time. Here's what to look for:

Transparency. A legitimate contest clearly states who the judges are, when winners will be announced, and what rights they acquire to your work. If this information is missing, be cautious.

Reasonable terms. Most reputable contests ask for first publication rights only, meaning you keep ownership of your work. Be wary of any contest that claims permanent or exclusive rights to your submission.

No excessive fees. While some excellent contests do charge entry fees (often $15–$25), many great ones are free. If you're just starting out, there's no reason to pay when free options exist.

A track record. Search for past winners. Are they real people with real publications? Can you find the winning stories online? If a contest has been running for years and you can verify past results, it's likely legitimate.

What Judges Look For

Every contest is different, but most judges evaluate some combination of these qualities:

Voice. Does the writing sound like a real person with a distinct perspective? A strong voice stands out immediately in a stack of submissions.

Originality. Not just in the plot, but in how the story is told. A familiar premise can win if the approach is fresh.

Emotional impact. The stories that win are usually the ones that make the judge feel something. That doesn't mean melodrama — it means authentic human emotion.

Craft. Clean prose, effective pacing, and a satisfying structure. This doesn't mean fancy writing. It means writing that serves the story.

Tips for a Stronger Submission

Follow the guidelines exactly. If the contest says 1,000 words maximum, don't submit 1,200. If they want a specific file format, use it. Judges often disqualify entries that don't follow the rules, regardless of quality.

Don't rush your submission. Give yourself enough time to write, revise, and polish. Submitting on the last day with a first draft is a missed opportunity.

Read past winners. Most contests publish their winning entries. Read them. Notice what they have in common. This doesn't mean you should imitate them, but understanding what a particular contest values can help you choose where to submit.

Submit to multiple contests. Unless a contest requires exclusive submissions (meaning you can't submit the same story elsewhere simultaneously), send your work to several places. Rejection is normal and expected. The more you submit, the better your chances.

Keep writing. The writers who win contests aren't necessarily more talented — they're the ones who keep writing and keep submitting. Every story you finish makes the next one better.