20 Best Essay Writing Contests You Should Enter In 2025

Every writer starts somewhere, and for many, that 'somewhere' is a contest. Essay writing contests are one of the smartest ways to get noticed (and maybe even paid) for your writing. Beyond the obvious opportunities, such contests are also amazing for connecting with those whose voices actually matter in the industry.

We've put together a list of 20 essay writing contests you can enter in 2025 to sharpen your writing skills and move forward in your field. You won't have to keep track of submission dates and entry fees anymore - you'll find everything in one place. But here are five standout options to consider first:

• The To Hull and Back Humorous Short Story Competition
• The 2025 Book Prize
• Tom Howard/Margaret Reid Poetry Contest
• The Narrative Prize
• The Unleash WIP Award

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Essay Writing Contests in 2025

If you want to enroll in a writing contest but have no idea where or how to start, this list is for you. An essay writing contest by EssayHub doesn't exist yet, but here are 20 of the best options for the year. Some of these competitions are looking for nonfiction writers who can create essays that hit hard. Others want stories that make people laugh or cry. And yes, most of the winners receive cash prizes!

Why You Should Submit to Essay Competitions

Writers don't enter essay contests just so they can win cash prizes. Sure, it's a nice perk, but the benefits go so much further beyond! Here's why it's always a good idea to take part in writing competitions:

1. You put your work out there. Submitting a piece to a contest is already a step toward being read. Being read, in turn, is a step toward recognition. Enrolling in a contest pushes you to believe in your work and take the risk of sharing your voice.
2. You get used to judgment. You get exposed to real, professional evaluation here. Even if you don't end up winning, you learn why your writing didn't work as well as you thought. You get used to constructive criticism and get to grow from the experience.
3. You build a portfolio. Every submission - win or lose - is a part of your collection. These pieces can then be reused or adapted for future contests and publications. Plus, you've got a body of work to show off.
4. It adds weight to applications. If you're aiming for the most expensive colleges (or any college, for that matter), showing off that you've got an award or participated in a writing contest will help you stand out.
5. You reach the right people. It's important for any aspiring writer to get their work in front of people who have a say in the field. Contest judges are often editors, publishers, or even respected writers who can open doors to opportunities and connections.

What To Do After You Submit to Essay Writing Competitions?

So, you've proofread everything and already hit submit. What now? Don't just sit around and be anxious about whether you get picked or not; here's what you can do while you're waiting for results:

1. Don't send a revised version. Resist the urge to make edits and send an updated draft once you've submitted it. Most competitions don't allow replacements. Instead, take a little extra time to proofread your work before you submit it.
2. Set calendar reminders. You probably won't forget it, but it still helps to put the announcement date on your calendar so you remember to check back. Some contests don't notify you unless you've won.
3. Ask for feedback (just in case): Most competitions simply can't offer feedback because of so many submissions. But it never hurts to ask! Just make sure to wait until after the results are announced before reaching out.
4. Withdraw if your piece wins elsewhere. If you've submitted the same essay to more than one place, notify the others right away if it gets accepted or wins. It's professional and keeps things fair.

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The Bottom Line

Now, you've got all the tools and information you need to pick the writing contests that fit you best. But let's quickly go over what you need to keep in mind before you dive headfirst into your application:

• Essay competitions are not just prize hunts. Through them, you can sharpen your skills and build confidence.
• Winning isn't everything. Submitting itself is exposure and progress.
• Submission deadlines help you stay accountable. Themes push you to explore new angles.
• Every entry, winning or not, adds to your portfolio.
• The more you submit, the easier it gets. Rejection is part of the process.

If you're trying to build a solid portfolio, but the schoolwork keeps getting in the way, EssayHub is here to help. Our professional writers can help you write authentic academic papers so you can focus your attention on what actually matters to you.