Apply to the National Arts Competition

Are you a 15- to 18-year old visual, literary or performing artist?

The 2024 YoungArts application opens June 6, 2023.

2024 National Competition

Jun 6

Application Opens

Oct 13

Application Closes

Accepting applications in 10 disciplines

Competition Eligibility

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 a Finalist, 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

Once you have created and logged into your account, you may begin a new application by clicking “Start a New Application”. Pay the $35 application fee or request a fee waiver.

3. Submit your application

The 2024 YoungArts application closes October 13, 2023.

Why Apply?

Cash awards

Receive cash prizes between $100 and $10,000.

 

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 longterm, 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  at the Finalist level 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.

Learn More

Have questions about the application?