THE COMPETITION

  The Scholastic Writing Awards, first conducted in 1923, are the most prestigious and widely recognized high school writing competition in the nation.  

   Past winners include best-selling author of It, Stephen King; Pulitzer Prize winner Sylvia Plath; and Dwight alumnus Truman Capote, author of Breakfast at Tiffany's as well as In Cold Blood, one of the biggest-selling true crime novels in the history of publishing.  The numerous past Dwight student winners are listed here.  

    All high school students are eligible to submit works in ten (10) different writing categories, for the chance to win regional and national awards, to earn scholarships, and to have their writing published.

    Judges seek writing that best exhibits originality, technical skill, and a compelling personal voice.

DEADLINES & DATES

    All writing work must be submitted by Tuesday, December 9, 2025.  

   The New York City Regional Award Winners are typically announced in January and the National Winners in March.

WRITING CATEGORIES

    The ten (10) writing categories, including descriptions, word limits, and examples of past winning works are here.

HOW TO ENTER

    Instructions on how to officially enter your work in the competition can be found here.

    If you would like to learn more about the competition, to ask any questions about the categories or submission procedures, or to get advice on topic selection, writing, or editing, speak with any high school English teacher, or you can email the Head of the English Department, Mr. Wiesenfeld, at mwiesenfeld@dwight.edu.  Note that submission to this competition does involve fees.  However, if necessary, those fees can be waived or covered by Dwight; speak with Mr. Wiesenfeld for assistance.