Top Scholarships for Creative Writing
Creative writing as a major can open many career fields down the line. Those seeking a deeper understanding of literature, critical reading, journalism and other ways to fully use the English language are attracted to the same field. Scholarships for creative writing reward a good use of skills, a comprehension of language and - like all scholarships - timeliness and dedication.
1. YoungArts’ National Arts Competition for Writing
Description: 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.
Amount: up to $3,000
Eligibility: High School Sophomore to Senior, US Citizen, Attendance at National YoungArts Week
Deadline: October 13, 2024
2. The Richard G. Zimmerman Scholarship
Description: The Richard G. Zimmerman Scholarship is named for a long-time National Press Club member who died in 2008 and endowed a scholarship in aid of high school seniors who wish to pursue a career in journalism.
Amount: $5,000
Eligibility: High School Senior, GPA 3.0 or Higher, Pursuing Journalism Degree/Career
Deadline: March 1, 2024
3. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Description: The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is the United States’ longest-running program dedicated specifically to creative teenagers.
Amount: up to $10,000
Eligibility: High School Student, Graduating Seniors Preferred, Submission of Portfolio or Requested Work
Deadline: December - January; Varies by Region
4. Amy Lowell Poetry Travelling Scholarship
Description: The American poet Amy Lowell died in 1925. Her will established an annual scholarship to support travel abroad for gifted American-born poets.
Amount: $71,000
Eligibility: All Students, No Restrictions, Intended for Travel Expenses or Study Abroad
Deadline: October 15, 2024
5. The Horror Writers Association Scholarships
Description: The Horror Writers Association (HWA) is pleased to offer a variety of scholarships to assist writers looking to pursue a career as a writer of horror fiction, nonfiction, or poetry.
Amount: $2,500
Eligibility: Any Student, Intent to Further Career in Horror Writing with Awards
Deadline: August 2024
6. Ayn Rand Scholarships
Description: Ayn Rand is the author of three canonical novels, each of which has its accompanying scholarship award: Anthem, The Fountainhead, and Atlas Shrugged.
Amount: $10,000 - $2,500 - $50
Eligibility: High School Juniors and Seniors, Undergraduates and Graduates, Submission of Prompt Driven Essay
Deadline: November 6, 2023
7. Dissident Project National Essay Contest
Description: Have you ever stood tall in the face of injustice? When did you realize the value of your American freedoms? What caused this realization? What does it mean to be free?
Amount: $6,000
Eligibility: High School Student, US Citizen, Essay on Prompt,
Deadline: December 31, 2023
8. ACES Walsh Scholarship
Description: The ACES Walsh Scholarship is an exclusive offer of The Society for Editing. In an effort to improve the quality of the written word and the working lives of editor professionals today, this organization engages in a wide range of endeavors, one being its annual ACES Walsh Scholarship offer.
Amount: $3,500
Eligibility: Undergraduate or Graduate, Seeking Editing as a Career,
Deadline: November 15, 2023
9. Journalist of the Year Scholarships
Description: Sister Rita Jeanne Abicht Scholarships, named for JEA’s longtime treasurer, recognize the top high school journalists in the country.
Amount: up to $3,000
Eligibility: High School Senior, US Citizen, Interest in Journalism or Writing Field
Deadline: March 10, 2024
10. The Davidson Fellows Scholarship in Literature
Description: Both the U.S. News and World Report and Forbes Magazine have named the Davidson Fellows Scholarship one of the country’s most prestigious scholarships.
Amount: up to $50,000
Eligibility: High School Student, US Citizen, Submission of Portfolio According to Rules
Deadline: February 14, 2024
Scholarships for creative students offer not only financial support but also a profound validation of the importance of artistic expression and innovation in our society. These opportunities empower individuals to pursue their creative passions and make a lasting impact on the world. As we've explored the diverse range of scholarships available, it is clear that these programs can play a pivotal role in shaping the future of talented artists, writers, designers, and creators. By investing in the dreams and talents of creative students, we not only foster a more vibrant and dynamic cultural landscape but also encourage the next generation of visionaries who will drive positive change and innovation in countless fields.
