The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is one of the most prestigious literary awards for emerging writers from Commonwealth countries. This annual competition celebrates new and diverse voices by offering a platform to writers who may not have previously published. The short story prize aims to inspire creativity and promote literary talent across the Commonwealth’s diverse cultural landscape.
Commonwealth citizens with age 18 and above can enter this competition. Writers submit an unpublished short story between 2,000 to 5,000 words, giving them a chance to showcase their storytelling abilities to a global audience. The stories can be in any genre, reflecting the rich diversity of voices and styles within the Commonwealth.
The Short Story Prize provides significant recognition and financial rewards. The overall winner receives a cash prize of £5,000, while each of the five regional winners receives £2,500. These winning stories are also published on Granta, offering writers further exposure and recognition.
In addition to the monetary prize, the Commonwealth Prize offers winners the opportunity to be mentored by established writers. The short story competition encourages submissions in multiple languages, including English, French, Bengali, Chinese, Greek, Kiswahili, Malay, Portuguese, Samoan, Tamil, and Turkish, further enhancing its inclusivity and global reach.
Quick Overview of Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2025
- Host Country: Open to Commonwealth countries
- Host Organization: Commonwealth Foundation
- Deadline: 2 November 2024, 12 pm GMT
- Programs: Unpublished short fiction (2,000–5,000 words)
- Value: £5,000 for the overall winner; £2,500 for each regional winner
- Age Limit: 18 and over
- Eligibility: Open to Commonwealth citizens only
Perks of Short Story Competition for Commonwealth Countries
- £5,000 for the overall winner and £2,500 for each regional winner.
- Winning stories published in Granta, a prestigious literary magazine.
- An opportunity to be recognized and celebrated by an international audience.
- Potential to receive guidance from established writers, aiding in career development.
Benefits of Short Story Award by Commonwealth
- Winning can significantly enhance a writer’s profile, opening doors to further opportunities.
- Provides a platform for writers to reach a global audience.
- Offers a prestigious accolade, affirming the writer’s skill and potential.
- Connect with other talented writers and industry professionals.
Exclusions of Prize for Short Essay
- Only unpublished stories are eligible.
- The competition is open only to citizens of Commonwealth countries.
- Stories must be between 2,000 and 5,000 words.
Eligibility Criteria of Competition by the Commonwealth Organization
- Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country.
- Must be 18 years or older by the deadline.
- Submissions must be original, unpublished short stories.
- Stories must be between 2,000 to 5,000 words.
Important Dates of Short Story Award for Inspiring Writers
- Submission Deadline: 2 November 2024, 12 pm GMT
How to Apply to the Short Story Prize
- Write and edit your short story (2,000–5,000 words).
- Ensure your story meets the eligibility criteria.
- Fill out the submission form via the Commonwealth Short Story Prize entry page.
- After submission, you will receive a reference number confirming your entry.
Required Documents for Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2025
- Short Story: A story between 2,000 to 5,000 words, unpublished.
- Submission Form: Complete the online submission form.
For more information and to apply, visit the Commonwealth website.
