Bennington Young Writers Awards 2026–27 — Poetry

Bennington College

Open · Deadline Nov 1, 2026 · Remote

Free international poetry competition for students in grades 9–12. Submit 1–3 original poems in English, totaling no more than 1,500 words including titles and other text. Choose only one writing category. A teacher must review and sponsor your entry; homeschooled students may use a mentor. AI assistance at any stage is prohibited. Awards: $2,000 first, $1,000 second, $500 third; distinguished entries may receive $250. Separate college scholarships require enrollment at Bennington. Apply by November 1, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Eastern. Grades 9–11 register through the Young Creators portal. IMPORTANT: grade 12 entrants must first submit a nonbinding Bennington Common or Coalition Application and indicate award interest; there is no application fee or supplemental essay. Winners are announced in spring.