Apply to the National Arts Competition
Are you a 15- to 18-year old visual, literary or performing artist?
The 2024 YoungArts application closes on October 13, 2023 at 11:59 PM ET.
To be eligible, you must be able to answer ”Yes“ to these statements:
- I am either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or I can demonstrate that I am legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.
- I am in grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year I am applying.
- If I’m selected as an award winner with distinction, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.
1. Review the requirements for your discipline
Simply choose your discipline and area of focus to learn the specific requirements for your program.
2. Start your application
The 2024 YoungArts application is hosted on Kaleidoscope. Once you have created or logged into your account, begin a new application by clicking “Begin”. Enter your contact and eligibility information, then you will be redirected to the discipline-specific application. Your application is incomplete until you have answered the discipline/category questions. Pay the $35 application fee or request a fee waiver.
3. Submit your application
The 2024 YoungArts application closes October 13, 2023.
Mentorship by accomplished artists
We provide mentorship opportunities with accomplished artists to help award winners prepare for and navigate a career in the arts.
A lifetime of creative and professional support
YoungArts is more than an award. Artists access resources and opportunities at every stage of their development to support a sustainable practice.
A robust network
YoungArts award winners join a community of distinguished artists that provides a long–term, robust network to help artists at all stages of their education and career.
Nomination for U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts
Each year, the White House Commission on Presidential Scholars selects 20 YoungArts award winners who attend National YoungArts Week as U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school students who exemplify academic and artistic excellence.
National recognition
The prestigious award gives emerging artists a headstart by demonstrating that they have received national recognition from highly respected artists in their field early on in their artistic journey.
Have questions about the application?