Scholastic Art and Writing Awards

A prestigious U.S.-based competition for students in grades 7-12, organized by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, recognizing creative excellence in 29 art and writing categories with scholarship and national recognition opportunities.

The Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, managed by the Alliance for Young Artists & Writers, is the longest-running and most prestigious creative recognition program for teenagers in grades 7–12 in the United States and Canada. It honors excellence in 29 categories of visual and literary arts, providing extensive opportunities for scholarships, national recognition, exhibition, and publication. Since 1923, it has cultivated the creativity of millions of young artists and writers, including many notable alumni.

Competition Details

Judging Criteria

All entries are judged anonymously by distinguished luminaries in the visual and literary arts. Judges evaluate submissions based on originality, technical skill or craftsmanship, and the emergence of a personal voice or authentic vision. The process includes regional adjudication rounds, where works are evaluated for regional awards (Gold Key, Silver Key, Honorable Mention), followed by national adjudication for top regional winners competing for national medals and scholarships. Judges look for unique, boundary-pushing work that challenges assumptions and expresses creativity and perspective.