Writing contests are a fabulous way for students to further develop their writing skills, reach a broader audience, and potentially win a prize. They also provide a novel way to insert a little excitement into the daily curriculum. We are excited to announce that the IEW Writing Contest 2026 will soon be open for student writers!
The contest, open to all aspiring and accomplished writers ages eight to eighteen regardless of their experience with IEW’s Structure and Style® writing method, is a great way to showcase students’ writing efforts. IEW’s Magnum Opus Magazine will publish the top three participants in each category in the July e-newsletter. Subscribe today! Furthermore, prizes will be awarded in each category to the top three winners and their teachers!*
First Prize: $400.00 (for student) + $400.00 IEW gift certificate (for parent or teacher)
Second Prize: $200.00 (for student) + $200.00 IEW gift certificate (for parent or teacher)
Third Prize: $100.00 (for student) + $100.00 IEW gift certificate (for parent or teacher)
*Due to international regulations about contests, international participants who win will receive IEW gift certificates for the student in lieu of cash prizes.
Participating in a writing contest, students experience writing without the constraints of a checklist. A contest reminds students that they use their writing toolbox not because it is required but because it is how great writers compose their thoughts. You can find out more about the benefits of entering writing contests in this blog post.
Although an IEW® Checklist is not provided for the contest, a brief checklist is included. Students must be sure to adhere to the requirements for the contest. They may find it helpful to read through past contest winning entries. Although those prompts were different, students can glean what made those winning essays stand out for the judges.
Of course, students should write their own essays, yet you can encourage your students to follow the process for writing. You can guide them through this. An editor can check for mechanics and spelling.
The IEW Writing Contest prompts will be published on the contest page on March 2. Your student should use the prompt based on his or her age. The deadline is April 30, 2026 (11:59 PM Central Time).
We hope you will share this contest with your students! For more information, click the link below.
