Since 1923, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards have provided opportunities for creative teens. Every year, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards partners with organizations as well as colleges and universities to offer artistically talented students awards and scholarships. While the awards and scholarships are of course welcome, the prestige of winning a Scholastic Award is incredibly impressive. According to their website, the Scholastic Awards look for work that demonstrates “originality, technical skill, and the emergence of a personal voice or vision.” Use your imagination and start creating!
Who is eligible to apply for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards?
Scholarships are open to students ages 13 and up in grades 7 through 12. Public/private school and homeschooled students in the U.S., Canada, or American schools worldwide are welcome to apply.
There are 29 categories to choose from, with everything from architecture to full writing portfolios. Graduating seniors may submit full art or writing portfolios For a full list of category descriptions, click HERE.
Scholastic clearly states that young artists and writers are free to explore any and all topics. They assure all who apply that no work is ever disqualified from the Scholastic Awards because of the nature of its content.
The judging criteria includes:
- Originality
- Technical Skill
- Emergence of a Personal Voice or Vision
Students receiving Gold Keys, Silver Keys, Honorable Mentions, or American Voices & Visions Nominations are celebrated within their communities through local exhibitions and ceremonies. Gold Key works are judged nationally by an impressive panel of creative–industry experts and are recognized in part at the National Ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
How much are the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards worth?
Scholarship awards are worth from $500 to $10,000!
When is the application deadline to apply?
The application deadlines vary, but are always in December and January depending on geographic region. See the application for details.
Best of luck, artistic students!
