Elizabeth Alexander Creative Writing Award 2026/2027: $500 Prize, Publication and Residency Opportunity

The Elizabeth Alexander Creative Writing Award recognises outstanding creative writing through cash prizes, publication and a residency opportunity at Smith College in the United States.

The award is administered by Meridians: feminism, race, transnationalism, a journal based at Smith College.

Benefits

Each of the two annual winners receives:

$500 cash prize

Publication in Meridians

An opportunity to spend one week in residence at Smith College during the following fall or spring semester.

Eligible Categories

Applicants may submit work in the following categories:

Poetry

Fiction

Nonfiction

Play scripts

The award prioritises works engaging with feminism, race and transnationalism. Translations and manuscripts written in languages other than English are also encouraged.

Submission Requirements

All entries must be previously unpublished.

Only one submission per applicant is permitted.

Simultaneous submissions are not accepted.

Manuscripts must be submitted in PDF format.

The manuscript must not contain the applicant's name or contact information.

Manuscript length:

Poetry: 3–5 poems in one document.

Fiction and nonfiction: Maximum of 7,000 words.

Play scripts: Maximum of 5,000 words.

Manuscripts must include a title and follow the award's formatting guidelines.

How to Apply

Prepare your manuscript according to the requirements for your chosen category.

Save your submission as a PDF.

Remove identifying and contact information from the manuscript.

Complete the online application form and upload your work.

Application Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeT9EHr6YBEmDtrSm0hLEeIczkdNfOdesLGDDaphbJGXWTH0A/viewform

Official Website: https://sites.smith.edu/meridians/awards/elizabeth-alexander-creative-writing-award/

Application Deadline Not confirmed.