Writers of the Future Contest

Guidelines summary

Pays

Each quarter: $1,000 first, $750 second, $500 third. Annual grand prize adds $5,000.

Length

Short stories under 10,000 words or novelettes under 17,000

Wants

All types of science fiction, fantasy and dark fantasy; not horror or mystery without a speculative element

Simultaneous submissions

Not stated

Multiple submissions

One manuscript per quarter

Reprints

No (not previously published in professional media)

Response time

Winners notified after each quarter is judged

Submissions

Always open. Quarters end March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31 (midnight Pacific).

Submission or entry fee

No entry fee

Rights

All rights stay with the author

Also note

Only for writers who haven't professionally published a novel, more than one novelette or more than three short stories (professional = 8¢/word and 5,000 copies or hits).

Last checked

October 31, 2026