One Teen Story Teen Writing Contest 2027

About the Program

Verified 2027 cycle

The One Teen Story Teen Writing Contest opens October 20, 2026 and closes December 1, 2026. It is open internationally to writers ages 13–19 as of December 1, 2026. No entry fee is required.

Submit one original, previously unpublished short story of 2,000–4,500 words. The story should feature teen characters and explore the teen experience; literary, fantasy, science fiction, romance, horror, and other genres are welcome. Work self-published on a website, blog, or another platform is not eligible. AI-assisted work is also ineligible.

Winners receive $500 and publication on the One Teen Story website, with editorial work before publication. Honorable mentions are selected in age bands 13–15, 16–17, and 18–19. Stories are submitted through the online submission manager by age category. International submissions are explicitly accepted.

Source: One Teen Story Teen Writing Contest, checked September 27, 2026.

Eligibility

Open internationally to writers ages 13–19 as of December 1, 2026. Submit original, unpublished fiction in English; stories should feature teens and address the teen experience. Self-published work is ineligible. Entrants must be 13–19 on December 1, 2026. Teen writers worldwide; age eligibility controls.

Eligible Countries

International submissions accepted: All countries International submissions are accepted.

How to Apply

Submit one original, previously unpublished short story through One Story's online submission manager. Select the 13–15, 16–17, or 18–19 age category. Proof of age may be requested from finalists and winners; a parent or guardian must consent to publication for winners or honorable mentions under 18.