Apply to the National Arts Competition

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

The 2028 YoungArts application opens Summer 2027.

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2027 National Competition

Oct 6

Application Closes

Nov 24

Winners Announcement

Accepting applications in 10 disciplines

Competition Eligibility

Answer these four questions to determine your eligibility.

Are you either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident or legally able to receive taxable income in the U.S. (i.e., have a social security number, ITIN, etc.) at the time of applying?

As of December 1, 2026, will you be in grade 10, 11 or 12?

As of December 1, 2026, will you be age 15-18?

If you are selected as an award winner with distinction, would this be your first time attending National YoungArts Week?

Why Apply?

Cash awards

All YoungArts award winners receive cash prizes between $250 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 long–term, robust network to help artists at all stages of their education and career.

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.

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