Writing
Writing is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline encompasses creative nonfiction, novel, play or script, poetry, short story and spoken word.
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.
The strongest submissions demonstrate a sense of inventiveness, show attention to the complexities and technical aspects of language, and have a clear, original, and distinct point of view.
Application requirements vary by category. Select your category and review the detailed requirements before applying.
Ready to apply? The 2023 application closes October 14, 2022 at 11:59 PM ET.
See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application.
Want to know more about the YoungArts community and what it’s like to pursue a life in the arts? Ask an Artist.
Application tips | Vanessa Garcia & Grace Talusan, National Selection Panelists
Application tips | Vanessa Garcia & Grace Talusan, National Selection Panelists
Application tips | Christopher Castellani (1990, 1992 Writing), National Selection Panelist
Application tips | Christopher Castellani (1990, 1992 Writing), National Selection Panelist
Application tips | Sarah Braunstein, Guest Artist
Application tips | Sarah Braunstein, Guest Artist
Application tips | John Murillo, Guest Artist
Application tips | John Murillo, Guest Artist
2023 Application Writing Info Session
2023 Application Writing Info Session
What it's like to be a YoungArts Winner | Nicole Cooley (1984 Writing), National Selection Panelist
What it's like to be a YoungArts Winner | Nicole Cooley (1984 Writing), National Selection Panelist
View select works from winners here.
For the first time, I felt confident and so centered in my art—for the first time, I had the opportunity to talk to talented and powerful artists my age and learn from them.”