Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Offered by Alliance for Young Artists & Writers
About This Scholarship
The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, presented by the nonprofit Alliance for Young Artists & Writers since 1923, are the nation's longest-running recognition program for creative teens — past winners include Andy Warhol, Sylvia Plath, and Stephen King. Students in grades 7-12 (age 13+) submit work in dozens of art and writing categories, from poetry and journalism to painting, photography, and video game design.
Work is first judged regionally, where Gold Key winners advance to national adjudication. At the national level, graduating seniors who submit portfolios compete for the top scholarships: Gold Medal Portfolio winners receive $12,500 and Silver Medal with Distinction portfolio recipients earn $2,000, with additional sponsored awards and direct scholarship consideration available.
Entries cost $10 per individual work or $30 per portfolio, but the Alliance waives fees for any student who selects the fee-waiver option in the entry portal, keeping the program accessible. Regional deadlines fall in December and January, varying by region.
Eligibility
- Students in grades 7-12, age 13 or older, in the U.S., Canada, or American schools abroad
- Submit original work in art, writing, or both across dozens of categories
- Graduating seniors may submit portfolios for the top scholarship awards
- Entry fees waived for any student who selects the fee-waiver option
How To Apply
- Create an account at portal.artandwriting.org and upload your work in the appropriate category
- Check your region's deadline on the My Region page (most fall December-January)
- Pay the $10 entry / $30 portfolio fee or select the fee-waiver option at checkout
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a fee to enter the Scholastic Awards?
Entry fees are $10 per individual entry and $30 per portfolio, but the Alliance states that if the fee is a barrier, students simply select the fee-waiver option in the online portal — no documentation hurdle.
What scholarships can winners earn?
Graduating seniors with Gold Medal Portfolios receive $12,500 and Silver Medal with Distinction portfolios earn $2,000. Other national medalists may receive sponsored awards and direct scholarship consideration.