The nation's longest-running (since 1923) recognition program for teen artists and writers, judged regionally then nationally across categories like poetry, personal essay, short story, painting, photography, and film. Gold Key regional winners advance to national judging for Gold/Silver Medals and scholarship consideration, including Gold Medal Portfolio scholarships ($12,500) for graduating seniors, Silver Medal Portfolio scholarships ($2,000), Best-in-Grade awards ($500), and the National Student Poets Program ($5,000 plus a one-year ambassador role). Entry fee is $15 per individual work or $40 per portfolio, with fee waivers available for students who cannot pay.
Eligibility
Fields of studyCreative Writing · Visual Arts · Film
DemographicsOpen to students in grades 7-12, age 13+, residing in the US, US territories, or military bases, or in Canada (excluding Quebec). An entry fee of $15 (individual) or $40 (portfolio) applies, but fee waivers are available for students who cannot afford it.
Applying
Gold Medal Portfolio scholarships are $12,500 each (16 awarded: 8 writing, 8 art), and Silver Medal Portfolio scholarships are $2,000. Best-in-Grade awards are $500 and National Student Poets receive $5,000. Most entrants receive no cash, only regional or national recognition.