Best Arts Opportunities for High Schoolers
Top arts competitions, scholarships, and programs for high school students.
200 opportunities found
FOX Entertainment Writers Incubator (2026)
FOX EntertainmentHighly selective 3-month workshop for 4 writers to develop scripts, hone writing skills, and learn entertainment business with established industry pr...
YCA Susan Wadsworth International Auditions
Young Concert Artists (YCA)International classical music competition for emerging solo artists and ensembles seeking professional artist management and career development.
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards - National Student Poets Program
Alliance for Young Artists & WritersThe nation's highest honor for young poets creating original work. Five National Student Poets selected annually to develop their authorial voices.
National YoungArts
National YoungArts FoundationPremier arts competition recognizing exceptional young artists in multiple disciplines including visual arts, music, dance, theater, and writing with ...
Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and SciencesIdentifies and nurtures talented emerging screenwriters through fellowships. Scripts reviewed by Academy members.
Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award
From the Top and Jack Kent Cooke FoundationAnnual $10,000 scholarship for 20 outstanding young classical musicians demonstrating financial need to support advanced musical training.
Photo Essay Contest
The New York Times Learning NetworkTeen photographers submit photo essays on topics of their choice. Winning essays published in The Times.
YoungArts Creative Opportunities
YoungArtsPrograms for award winners to create, develop and present work through residencies, exhibitions, and performances.
Idyllwild Arts Academy
Idyllwild Arts AcademyInternationally acclaimed residential arts high school for grades 9-12 and postgraduate students with 8 art majors and professional instruction.
From the Top - Young Musicians Opportunities
From the TopPlatform celebrating young musicians' stories and artistry with fellowships, awards, and learning programs for high school musicians across the countr...
New York Times Teen Photo Essay Contest
The New York Times Learning NetworkHigh school students create photo essays exploring topics in their communities. Winning entries are published in The New York Times.
National YoungArts Foundation
National YoungArts FoundationPremier arts competition for high school students recognizing and supporting young artists across multiple disciplines including visual arts, music, d...
CineStory Fellowship Contests
CineStoryScreenwriting and TV writing contests with fellowships including cash prizes, retreat tuition, housing, and 12-month mentorship with Hollywood profess...
Disruptors Fellowship
The Center for Cultural PowerTV writers fellowship with mentorship in mock writers' rooms, free monthly public workshops, and podcast opportunities for emerging writers from margi...
YoungArts Programs
YoungArtsAward programs providing critical support for artists at every stage of their career development.
From the Top - Teacher Sign-Up for Student Opportunities
From the TopSign up to receive updates about From the Top opportunities for young musicians, including fellowships, awards, and auditions.
Brave New Voices
Brave New VoicesInternational youth poetry competition held at different US locations annually where student poets compete and participate in workshops with renowned ...
Best-in-Grade Award
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers (Scholastic Art & Writing Awards)Scholarship recognizing juror-favorite art or writing works from each grade level in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards; winners receive $500.
YoungArts Awards Competition
YoungArtsAnnual arts competition for high school students offering cash prizes between $250-$10,000 in 10 disciplines including music, dance, visual arts, thea...
National YoungArts Foundation Competition
National YoungArts FoundationAnnual competition for visual, literary, and performing artists ages 15-18 to gain recognition, mentorship, and lifetime artistic support across 10 di...
YoungArts
YoungArtsNational competition and awards program for emerging artists ages 15-18 across all art forms, offering recognition, validation, and career support.
From the Top's Learning and Media Lab Fellowship
From the TopSix-week online fellowship for young musicians to explore artistic life, content creation, and community engagement with national radio opportunities.
From the Top Fellowship Application
From the TopApplication guide for From the Top Fellowship for young musicians including soloists, small ensembles, and large ensemble directors.
Congressional Art Competition
Congressional Institute and U.S. House of RepresentativesHigh school students compete to have their artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for approximately 11 months, viewed by millions of visitors annually.
Portfolio Scholarships
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers (Scholastic Art & Writing Awards)Scholarships up to $12,500 for high school seniors who submit a portfolio of six works to the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge
National Endowment for the ArtsA national competition where high school students write original musical theater songs, with winners performing at a concert hosted by the NEA.
International Child Art Foundation Arts Olympiad
International Child Art Foundation (ICAF)International competitive opportunity for young artists to showcase their artistic talent and creativity on a global stage.
Sundance Institute Episodic Program
Sundance InstituteTraining program for TV writers and creators to develop original series and pilot scripts through in-person labs and virtual intensives with accomplis...
The Herblock Award for Editorial Cartoon
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers (Scholastic Art & Writing Awards)Scholarship for high school students who submit editorial cartoon artworks addressing current events as part of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
National Arts Competition - YoungArts
YoungArtsNational arts competition supporting young artists ages 15-18 across 10 disciplines with lifetime mentorship and networking.
Educator Awards
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers (Scholastic Art & Writing Awards)Cash awards given to educators whose students receive National Winner recognition in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
New York Life Award
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers (Scholastic Art & Writing Awards)Scholarship and travel stipend for high school students who submit art or writing works about personal grief, loss, and bereavement to the Scholastic ...
Princeton University Ten-Minute Play Contest
Princeton University Lewis Center for the ArtsAnnual playwriting contest for high school students to submit original ten-minute plays, judged by a guest playwright.
NFMC Competitions & Awards
National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC)Music competitions and awards across voice, instrumental, composition, dance, conducting, and more. Students compete at local, state, and national lev...
American Voices & Visions Award
Alliance for Young Artists & Writers (Scholastic Art & Writing Awards)Regional award recognizing outstanding art or writing submissions to the Scholastic Awards; selected works representing each region receive $500.
National High School Design Competition
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design MuseumA national competition for high school students centered on design, hosted by Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.
Sundance Institute Episodic Lab and Intensive
Sundance InstituteTraining program for TV writers to develop original series and pilot scripts through in-person Lab or virtual Intensive with accomplished showrunners ...
Big Break Screenwriting Contest
Final DraftScreenwriting competition for feature and TV pilot scripts. Winners receive industry recognition and potential representation from top managers and pr...
YoungArts Professional Development Programs
YoungArtsProfessional development programs, workshops, artist residencies, and cultural partnerships to advance artists' careers and networks.
2026 Yearbook Excellence Contest (YEC)
Quill and ScrollDigital yearbook competition for high school and middle school students with categories in photography, writing, design, and social media journalism.
BMI Foundation Awards
BMI FoundationApplication-based awards for music and songwriting. No affiliation with BMI required to apply.
Architecture Student Competitions - Category Page
Aggregated listing of multiple international architecture competitions for students
U.S. House of Representatives High School Art Competition
U.S. House of RepresentativesAnnual spring art competition for high school students where the winner's artwork is displayed in the U.S. Capitol building.
REALM (Recognition of Excellence in Arts and Literary Magazines)
National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE)Student magazine competition where high school publications compete for national recognition and awards in literary and arts categories.
National Art Honor Societies (NAHS)
National Art Education Association (NAEA)Recognition program for outstanding middle and high school visual arts students, offering expanded opportunities and benefits for students and teacher...
CineStory Feature Retreat & Fellowship Contest
CineStoryAnnual 5-day screenwriting retreat in Idyllwild, California with mentorship from entertainment industry professionals and networking opportunities.
Poetry Out Loud
National Endowment for the ArtsDynamic poetry recitation competition for high school students that builds public speaking skills and confidence.
Destination Imagination Team Film Challenge
Destination ImaginationA global filmmaking competition where students collaborate to create films solving unique challenges in 8 weeks, exploring cinematography, storytellin...
Poetry in Voice
Poetry in VoiceNational poetry recitation competition for Canadian students with cash prizes and travel awards exceeding $75,000.
TV Retreat Fellowship Contest
CineStoryFellowship competition for TV writers offering $9,000 in prizes, mentorship, and educational retreat access with industry professionals.
Disruptors TV Writers Room Mentorship Program
The Center for Cultural PowerMock TV writer's room mentorship program for aspiring television writers to develop scripts and hone creative skills while connecting with underrepres...
Young Writers Project Challenges
Young Writers ProjectHub of writing and visual art challenges for young creatives, including weekly prompts, workshops, and themed competitions.
Screenwriting Lab
Film IndependentTwo-week intensive workshop for emerging screenwriters to develop a feature screenplay with creative advisors, industry mentors, and culminating pitch...
Youth Curators Program
Film IndependentHigh school students receive behind-the-scenes training from film programmers to view and curate short films for the Future Filmmakers Showcase, learn...
The Word - Citizen Album & Poetry Program
The WordStudents create poems and raps inspired by 'Citizen: An American Lyric' through weekly workshops and residencies at New Haven high schools, with selec...
Cooper Hewitt Teen Programs
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design MuseumHigh school design programs including workshops, career fair, and national competition with opportunities to meet working designers.
Poetry in Voice National Recitation Contest
Poetry in VoiceOnline poetry recitation competition where students memorize and perform poems for cash prizes and a chance to compete at National Finals.
Arts/Photography Student Competitions
Collection of arts and photography competitions offering students platforms to develop creative voice, gain recognition, and win awards.
CT Youth Slam
The WordYouth poetry competition where poets compete for cash prizes and opportunity to represent Connecticut at Brave New Voices national competition.
Final Draft Big Break Contest
Final DraftScreenwriting competition for feature and TV pilots. Submit your screenplay to compete against other writers and potentially catch the attention of in...
Native American Arts Center - Summer Workshops and Festival
Idyllwild Arts5th annual celebration of Native American arts and culture featuring workshops, performances, and a week-long festival with Indigenous artists and sch...
Future Filmmakers Showcase
Film IndependentCurated showcase of short films directed by middle and high school students from across the country, selected by professional filmmakers and youth cur...
Learning and Media Lab Curriculum
From the Top6-week online curriculum for Fellows exploring storytelling, media creation, artist careers, and community engagement through music.
The Auvert Magazine
The Auvert MagazineSubmit writing, art, and photography to a global magazine raising awareness about social and environmental issues.
NSLC Film Production & Screenwriting Summer Program
National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC)Immersive summer program exploring cinematic storytelling, film production techniques, screenwriting, and industry insights through hands-on learning ...
National Student Arts Leadership Conference: Empowering Future Creative Leaders
National Art Education Association (NAEA)High school students gather to develop leadership skills, celebrate creativity, and build commitment to supporting the arts in schools and communities...
California Poetry Out Loud
National Endowment for the Arts, administered by California Arts CouncilHigh school students compete by memorizing and performing poetry, advancing from classroom to state to national levels.
Little Miss Heard But Not Seen Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge
Concord TheatricalsHigh school students write original songs for a musical theater songwriting competition sponsored by Concord Theatricals.
2026 National Student Arts Leadership Conference
National Art Education Association (NAEA)High school students gather in Washington, DC for interactive workshops, museum visits, and networking to develop arts leadership skills and advocacy.
Alaska Poetry Out Loud
Alaska State Council on the ArtsHigh school students compete in poetry recitation at state and national levels, with the Alaska State Champion advancing to nationals.
CineStory Retreat & Contest
CineStoryScreenwriting contests and retreats for emerging writers with mentorship from Hollywood professionals.
Poetry Out Loud National Competition
Poetry Out LoudNational poetry recitation competition for high school students with state and regional competitions leading to national finals.
Idyllwild Arts Summer Program
Idyllwild ArtsSummer arts camp for teens and children featuring intensive workshops in visual arts, music, dance, film, creative writing, and more.
National Art Honor Society (NAHS)
National Art Education Association (NAEA)Recognition program for outstanding middle and high school visual arts students that expands opportunities for students and teachers through chapter m...
Design Hive
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design MuseumA teen design program at Cooper Hewitt where high school students engage in design activities, meet designers, and explore design careers.
JSU Writers Camp (Young Adult Writing Program)
Jacksonville State UniversityCreative writing camp fostering craft in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction through workshops, lectures, and readings by published writers.
BlueCat Screenplay Competition
BlueCatScreenwriting competition that reads feature films and short scripts, providing personalized written feedback to all entrants and introducing winners ...
National Geographic Photo Camp
National Geographic SocietyPhoto Camp gives young people a platform to share their stories and communities through photography, amplifying youth voices and teaching storytelling...
William R. Durham Drama/Theater Scholarship
Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL)Scholarship supporting high school seniors and older students pursuing careers in theater, with emphasis on academic performance.
Interpretation of Literature
ISD (Institute for Student Development)2-week residential or commuter program teaching students to bring literature to life through performance across multiple interpretation events.
Perry Brown Performing Arts Scholarship
Bold.orgScholarship for actors and dancers in Texas pursuing performing arts education, honoring Perry Brown's legacy in dance and theater.
Podcast Creation Contest
The New York Times Learning NetworkCreate an original five-minute podcast about almost any topic. Selected from 1,400 submissions.
Interpretation of Literature Summer Camp
ISD (Institute for Speech and Debate)Two-week residential or commuter summer camp teaching students to perform literature through dramatic, humorous, prose, poetry, and duo interpretation...
2026 GMBS Music Scholarship Competition
Glenn Miller Birthplace SocietyHigh school seniors and college freshmen compete in vocal or instrumental categories for scholarship awards. Top finalists perform in-person at the an...
Father John Oetgen, O.S.B. Scholarship for Excellence in Theatre and Performing Arts
Belmont Abbey CollegeScholarship providing up to $5,500 annually for theatre and dance students who minor in theatre or dance and participate in Abbey Players performances...
Student Podcast Contest
The New York Times Learning NetworkContest inviting teenagers to create original five-minute podcasts on any topic. 1,400 submissions received.
elementia Literary Magazine
Johnson County LibraryAward-winning literary arts magazine featuring original poetry, fiction, nonfiction, graphic stories, photography, and illustrations created by teens.
Exploring Civil Liberties Documentary Program
Film IndependentHigh school students learn film production skills and create documentary and oral history projects on civil liberties topics relevant to their communi...
Gutenberg Award
Graphic Communications Education Association (GCEA)Recognizes exceptional achievement in graphic communications across printed products, websites, and photographs for students from middle school throug...
Idyllwild Arts Academy Open House
Idyllwild Arts AcademyOpen House event to discover the community and creativity of Idyllwild Arts Academy, a top-ranked international boarding arts high school.
Virginia G. Piper Center for Creative Writing
Arizona State UniversityA creative writing center at ASU offering classes, workshops, conferences, and literary programming for writers at all levels in Arizona.
Scoring the Screen: Exploring Music's Role in Film
Carleton CollegeA 1-week non-credit pre-college program at Carleton College exploring how music functions in film. Open to current 9th-11th graders.
Bennington Summer Landscape Painting Workshop
Bennington CollegeWeek-long immersive summer workshop in landscape painting designed for curious learners ready to deepen their artistic practice.
NAHS Student Leadership Conference
National Art Honor Society (NAHS)National conference for high school art students featuring interactive workshops with artists and educators to develop leadership skills and arts advo...
NAHS Student Conference: Empowering Future Creative Leaders
National Art Education Association (NAEA)National Art Honor Society students participate in interactive presentations, hands-on workshops, and leadership training led by artists and educators...
Student Art Contest
Holocaust Center SeattleCreate visual art inspired by Holocaust survivor stories from Washington State, illustrating themes of courage and resistance in their survival journe...
Teen Summer Program Visual Art
Idyllwild Arts AcademySummer visual arts program for teens culminating in a celebration event showcasing student work and artistic progress.
CineStory Retreat & Fellowship Contest Scholarships
CineStoryMultiple scholarships for screenwriters competing in CineStory Feature and TV contests, ranging from $500-$1,500 tuition reductions.
Fund for the Advancement of Musical Arts (FAMA) Grants
National Federation of Music Clubs (NFMC)Non-renewable grants supporting specific music education and outreach projects that strengthen music appreciation in the US community.
Phillip Morales Memorial Art Scholarship
Phillip Morales Memorial FundScholarship for Texas high school seniors and undergraduates pursuing physical or digital arts, honoring artist and game producer Phillip Morales.
NYT Learning Network Teen Photo Essay Contest
The New York Times Learning NetworkTeens submit original photo essays on topics of their choosing. Winning photo essays are published on The New York Times Learning Network website.
Disruptors Fellowship - TV Writers Rooms Mentorship Program
The Center for Cultural PowerMentorship fellowship for aspiring TV writers to develop scripts in mock writers' rooms led by industry professionals, with focus on underrepresented ...
VOICES/VOIX Monthly Prize - Poetry in Voice
Poetry in VoiceCanadian student poetry competition with monthly $100 prizes and publication opportunities in VOICES/VOIX journal.
Gary S. Wilmer / RAMI Music Scholarship
Community Foundation of Northern Illinois (CFNIL)Scholarship for college-bound music students in Boone, Ogle, or Winnebago County who demonstrate commitment to musical education and active involvemen...
Betty Harlan Memorial Art Scholarship
Community Foundation of North Illinois (CFNIL)Scholarship supporting high school seniors and older pursuing careers in visual arts (painting, sculpture, film). Academic performance moderately weig...
Writer's Digest Poetry Awards
Writer's DigestAnnual poetry competition by Writer's Digest recognizing outstanding poems across categories, open to poets of various skill levels.
Overthinking (2024 Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge)
Concord TheatricalsMusical theater songwriting competition where students write original songs for musical theater. Participants create songs that demonstrate storytelli...
Bennington College Young Creator Awards
Bennington CollegeAwards program for young creative students. Students can register to receive updates about this opportunity.
Scholastic Journalism Week Student Poster Contest
Journalism Education Association (JEA)Design an original 17×22 inch poster for Scholastic Journalism Week 2027. Grand prize winner's design featured on official poster.
Youth Free Expression Film Contest
National Coalition Against Censorship (NCAC) and New York Film Academy (NYFA)Create a short documentary film exploring 'Documenting our Democracy' for a chance to win scholarships, cash prizes, and recognition. Free to enter.
BCAF-Eastern Heritage Art Fund & Rams Foundation Challenge
Beijing Contemporary Art Foundation (BCAF), Eastern Heritage Art Fund, Pechoin, Rams Foundation (Germany)International challenge jointly presented by BCAF, Pechoin, and the Rams Foundation supporting creative and cultural innovation; details on theme not ...
CapCut AI Festival
CapCutGlobal creative competition celebrating original AI-assisted work and imagination; participants submit AI-generated or AI-enhanced creative entries.
120 Hours Architecture Competition
Architecture and art competition open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students.
Live Before Life's Gone 2024 Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge
Concord TheatricalsSongwriting competition for high school students to create original musical theater songs, with winners featured in professional productions.
Scholastic Journalism Week 2027 Poster Design Contest
Journalism Education Association (JEA)Design a 17×22 inch commemorative poster for Scholastic Journalism Week 2027 with theme 'Start Here, Change Everything'. Winning design featured on of...
DisLit Youth Literary Magazine - Poetry Submissions
DisLit Youth Literary MagazineYouth literary magazine publishing poetry and creative writing from high school students. Open to submissions.
Introduction to Game Studies and Game Design
University of Chicago (Partner Program)In-person pre-college summer program in Hong Kong introducing high school students to game studies and game design concepts.
After-School Residences
The WordAfter-school workshops where Teaching Artists help self-selected students hone writing and performance skills in poetry and spoken word.
#recitepoetry School Contests
Poetry in VoiceMulti-level poetry recitation competition where students memorize and recite poems in English, French, or both languages.
Ada Long Creative Writing Workshop
University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of EnglishCreative writing workshop offered by UAB's Department of English with optional college credit.
Screenwriting Contests Calendar
Script MagazineComprehensive calendar and guide to screenwriting contests with various prizes, deadlines, and industry exposure opportunities.
Poetry in Voice School Contest
Poetry in VoiceRecitation competition for high school students to memorize and recite poems, with classroom and school-level contests leading to national finals.
National PTA Reflections Program
National PTACelebrates creative talents of student artists through arts-based interpretation of annual themes, recognizing artistic skills and creative vision.
30th Busan International Textile Design Competition
International textile design competition open to high school students and older, with an open theme. Application period June 1 – October 6, 2026. Cash...
Poetry in Voice - School Recitation Contests
Poetry in VoiceSchool-based poetry recitation competition where students memorize and perform poems, competing at classroom and school levels before advancing to nat...
Poetry In Voice - Poem Roulette
Poetry In VoicePoetry competition for Canadian high school students in junior and senior divisions to showcase spoken word performances.
Alabama Poetry Out Loud
National Endowment for the Arts / Alabama Arts CommissionPoetry recitation competition for high school students with classroom, school, regional, and state levels. Students can compete in national poetry or ...
Landscape Painting Workshop
Bennington CollegeWeek-long immersive summer workshop in landscape painting for students ready to deepen their artistic practice and skills.
National PTA Reflections Awards
National PTAAnnual arts program celebrating student creative talents through theme-based artistic interpretation across multiple mediums.
Design Career Fair
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design MuseumA career fair for high school students focused on design careers, offering networking opportunities with working designers at Cooper Hewitt.
Dancing Poetry Festival
Artists Embassy InternationalAnnual festival celebrating the integration of poetry and dance through performances and competitions.
Princeton Lewis Center Ten-Minute Play Contest
Princeton University Lewis Center for the ArtsAnnual playwriting competition for 11th grade students to submit original 10-page maximum plays. Winners receive cash prizes and recognition.
Young Poets
Acumen PoetryPoetry submission opportunity for young writers aged 16-25 to publish unpublished work in Acumen Poetry magazine.
33rd Annual Robert J. DeMott Short Prose Contest
Quarter After Eight, Ohio UniversitySubmit up to 3 unpublished prose pieces (500 words or fewer) including prose poems, short stories, or micro-essays. Prize $1,008.15 plus publication.
Self-Published E-Book Awards
Writer's DigestAnnual competition by Writer's Digest recognizing outstanding self-published e-books across various genres and categories.
Arts Educator Fellowship
Alabama State Council on the ArtsProfessional development fellowship for arts educators in Alabama schools.
Teen Summer Program Visual Art Culmination
Idyllwild ArtsCelebration event showcasing summer visual arts students' work and creative results from the Teen Summer Program
Juneau Arts and Humanities Council Scholarships and Grants
Juneau Arts and Humanities Council (JAHC)Financial support for students, individual artists, and arts organizations through scholarships and grants in the Juneau area.
Spacetime (2024 Musical Theater Songwriting Challenge)
Concord TheatricalsStudents write original songs for a musical theater challenge inspired by the theme of spacetime, competing for recognition and prizes.
Poetry Out Loud Idaho State Semifinal
Idaho Commission on the ArtsDynamic recitation competition where high school students memorize and perform great poetry. Winners advance from school/library competitions to state...
Poetry in Voice Team Regionals
Poetry in VoiceTeam-based poetry recitation competition where schools send trios of students to compete regionally across Canada.
Glenn Miller Festival Music Scholarship Program
Glenn Miller Birthplace SocietyMusic scholarship competition for student musicians at the 2026 Glenn Miller Festival in Clarinda, Iowa, featuring enhanced prizes and performance opp...
Gutenberg Awards - Photography Contest
GCEA (Graphic Communications Education Association)Photography competition for high school and college students across multiple classifications including film, digital B&W, color digital, and digitally...
Grid Photo Gallery presents Animals 2026
Grid Photo GalleryInternational open call for photographic works exploring the presence, meaning, and visual power of animals within the image. Wide range of interpreta...
The Light at the End of the Tunnel
Young Writers ProjectCreate visual art depicting your own version of a tunnel and its opening, or express your understanding of hope through any medium.
Earth Chronicles Illustrator Opportunity
Earth ChroniclesStudent-run environmental newspaper seeking illustrators passionate about art and the environment to create illustrations for publication.
Future Problem Solving International Conference Variety Show
Future Problem Solving Program InternationalAnnual talent showcase at IC where students perform acts with peers from multiple affiliates, featuring music, skits, and diverse performances.
Arizona Arts Opportunities Directory
Arizona Commission on the ArtsCurated directory of local, national, and international arts opportunities including calls for artists, competitions, grants, residencies, youth progr...
Teen Workshops
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design MuseumHands-on design workshops for high school students at Cooper Hewitt, offering opportunities to meet working designers and engage with design practice.
The Word Poetry Album - Citizen Project
The Word, in partnership with International Festival of Arts & Ideas and The Future ProjectStudents from New Haven high schools create poems and raps inspired by 'Citizen: An American Lyric' by Claudia Rankine, with selected pieces recorded ...
Hidden Letters Photography Challenge
Young Writers Project (YWP)Find and photograph hidden letters in everyday objects and environments. Submit visual art responses to this creative challenge.
Artist Strong Artist-In-Residence Program
Artist StrongOpportunity for artists of all levels to dedicate time to their craft through a residency program featuring artist spotlights and community engagement...
Earth Science Week Visual Arts Contest
American Geosciences Institute (AGI)Submit visual art inspired by earth science topics for ESW 2026. U.S. students in grades K-5 eligible.
Advanced Arts Achievement Award
JAHC (Juneau Arts and Humanities Council)Award to assist exceptional young artists continue their artistic studies in visual and performing arts.
SFPA Annual Poetry Contest
Science Fiction & Fantasy Poetry Association (SFPA)Annual speculative poetry competition with three divisions (dwarf, short, long). Submit unpublished poems for judging; top 3 winners per category rece...
Waters Online Art Competition
studentcompetitions.comOnline art competition themed around 'Waters', accepting depictions of rivers, lakes, oceans, waterfalls, seascapes, streams, ponds, and similar water...
Graphic Communications Week Poster Design Contest
Graphic Communications Education Association (GCEA)Poster design competition sponsored by GCEA during Graphic Communications Week. Contest criteria being updated.
Portrait Online Art Competition (August 2026)
Student CompetitionsMonthly online art competition focused on the Portrait theme, open to artists worldwide who submit their best portrait-themed works.
Disruptors Public TV Writing Workshops
The Center for Cultural PowerFive FREE monthly virtual TV writing workshops open to writers nationwide, with focus on developing television writing skills and underrepresented nar...
WD Short Short Story Competition
Writer's DigestAnnual short short story (flash fiction) competition by Writer's Digest, currently in its 19th year, recognizing outstanding very short fiction.
Young Poets Network Challenges
Poetry Society UK (Young Poets Network)UK-based poetry competition platform for young writers featuring themed challenges (e.g. Colour, Sonnet, Ecotones). Students submit original poems for...
Animals 2026 - Grid Photo Gallery International Open Call
Grid Photo GalleryInternational photography open call exploring the presence, meaning, and visual power of animals in photographic works. Open to high school students a...
Teen Drop-In Workshops
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design MuseumFree monthly workshops for teens exploring design techniques, strategies, and careers. Participants learn skills like weaving and printmaking while me...
Carl Sandburg Student Poetry Contest
National Park Service - Carl Sandburg Home National Historic SiteAnnual poetry writing contest for students grades 3-12. Students write original poems based on a yearly theme and compete within grade categories (3-5...
Grid Photo Gallery – Animals 2026
Grid Photo GalleryInternational open call for photographic works exploring the presence, meaning, and visual power of animals. Open to all including high school student...
Romance Writing Virtual Conference
Writers Digest UniversityVirtual conference on romance writing featuring sessions on world-building, character development, tropes, and heat levels with bestselling authors.
2025 Gloria Shields Workshop Awards
Gloria Shields WorkshopAwards ceremony recognizing top students in photo, design, digital, newspaper and yearbook courses, with scholarships and class recognition.
Intro to The Word Pop Up Events
The WordOne-time spoken word introduction led by Teaching Artists during or after school, featuring performance, writing prompts, and discussion.
Her Colorado: Stories Across 8 Regions
Colorado Women's Hall of Fame (CWHF)Colorado students create a 2–5-minute original video honoring a CWHF inductee from one of Colorado's 8 regions. Open to 6th grade through undergraduat...
Color in Photography Online Workshop
Young Writers Project (YWP)Learn how color conveys emotion and enhances visual impact in photography. Participate in an online workshop led by photographer and YWP alumni Kevin ...
Lighting in Photography Online Workshop
Young Writers Project (YWP)Learn about lighting techniques in photography from YWP alumni photographer Kevin Huang. Explore how lighting defines appearance, mood, and texture in...
Live Arts Learning
Alabama State Council on the ArtsGrant program offering artist performances and residencies for schools, combining previous Collaborating Artists Program, Alabama Touring Artists Prog...
Lit Cyphers
The WordQuarterly open mic event where poets, musicians, and creators perform original works at Neighborhood Music School with featured performers.
Lit Cypher
The WordFree public open mic and poetry event celebrating youth and community performers with spoken word performances.
Writory Monthly Poetry Competition
WritoryInternational online poetry competition held monthly where poets submit poems in any language on any theme. Winners receive cash prizes up to $25 and ...
Wenlock Olympian Society Live Arts Music Competition
Wenlock Olympian SocietyAnnual music competition featuring solo, duet, and group categories across vocal and instrumental disciplines for primary and secondary students.
Get Inspired TikTok Scholarship
Scholarships360Social media scholarship requiring TikTok engagement. Students comment on pinned post about what inspires them to create and connect.
4th Annual Summer Poetry Chapbook Contest
Quarter After Eight, Ohio UniversitySubmit poetry chapbooks (up to 25 poems) for chance to win $1000 and 25 published copies. Open to new, emerging, and established writers.
Dwarf Stars Award
Science Fiction & Fantasy Poetry Association (SFPA)Juried award recognizing the best speculative poem of 1–10 lines published in the previous year.
National Endowment for the Arts
National Endowment for the Arts (NEA)Federal agency funding grants for arts projects and promoting creative capacity across communities in all 50 states.
Spoken Word: Erin Jane Nelson
University of Alabama at Birmingham, Department of EnglishA free spoken word event featuring Erin Jane Nelson, hosted at UAB's Abroms-Engel Institute for the Visual Arts.
National Baseball Poetry Festival - Youth Contest
National Baseball Poetry FestivalSubmit one-page poems about baseball/softball themes for blind judging. Open year-round with annual deadline.
Green Monster Poetry Challenge
National Baseball Poetry Festival and NESN TVSubmit poems under 1 minute celebrating the spirit of the Green Monster at Fenway Park and its meaning to baseball, fans, and Boston.
Writory Free Poetry Contest
WritoryMonthly poetry competition where students submit poems to compete for prizes. Winners gain free entry to the next month's contest.
Arts in Education Grants
Alabama State Council on the ArtsGrants for schools to incorporate arts into curriculum through classes, workshops, guest artists, performances, residencies, and professional developm...
2026 Student Poetry Contest
National Park Service (Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site)Annual poetry contest for elementary and middle school students on the theme of unity. Students submit original poems judged for creativity, writing q...
8th "Nature" Online Art Competition
Contemporary Art Room GalleryInternational online art competition themed 'Nature' for August 2026. Artists worldwide submit artwork for judging and recognition.
NCPS Monthly Virtual Open Mic Night
North Carolina Poetry Society (NCPS)Monthly virtual open mic poetry reading via Zoom. 20 slots available; poets selected by lottery may read one poem (3 min max). Includes a 30-min socia...
Waterscapes Online Art Exhibition
Megalopolitan Art GalleryOnline art exhibition open to artists worldwide. Students submit artwork featuring water-themed subjects including oceans, seas, coastlines, beaches, ...
Grand Masters Award
Science Fiction & Fantasy Poetry Association (SFPA)Status granted to poets whose body of work reflects the highest artistic goals of SFPA in speculative poetry.
We Art Scholarship
A $1,000 award for creative individuals passionate about careers in beauty, fashion, or modeling.
AADL Slapdash Remake Film Festival
Ann Arbor District Library (AADL)Film festival where participants create homemade remakes of popular movies or TV shows using friends, minimal budget, and simple effects. All ages imp...
AADL Halloween Costume Contest
Ann Arbor District Library (AADL)Annual all-ages Halloween costume contest hosted by AADL each October, encouraging participants to show off creative, cool, cute, or spooky costumes.
AADL Tiny Film Festival
Ann Arbor District Library (AADL)Annual summer film festival where participants create and submit movies one minute or less to win prizes. Open to all ages.
Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Alliance for Young Artists & WritersRecognition and scholarships for creative teens in art and writing since 1923.
Young Writers Project
Young Writers ProjectA platform for young writers and visual artists to share work, participate in challenges, and develop their creative skills.
Gloria Shields NSPA Media Workshop
National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA)4-day summer workshop for student journalists and advisers featuring 35 nationally recognized faculty, 6 sequences with 16 specialized courses in jour...
elementia Literary Arts Magazine - Issue XXIV: Entropy
Johnson County LibraryLiterary arts magazine seeking teen submissions and design committee members for Issue XXIV themed around Entropy.
Teen Photo Essay Contest
The New York Times Learning NetworkContest inviting teens to submit original photo essays on topics of their choice. Winning photo essays are published on The New York Times Learning Ne...
In-School Residences
The WordTeaching Artists work with existing classes to teach poetry, spoken word, or hip-hop critique, writing, and performance while connecting to curriculum...