Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award
Mentorship & Publication
6,600 participants
A prestigious international poetry competition for young writers aged 11-17, offering mentorship, publication in an anthology, and significant recognition in the literary world. Free to enter.
Mode
Online
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Annual competition, submissions typically open in March and close end of July.
Time needed
Depends on individual research and writing time
Eligibility
Open to young people aged 11-17 globally. Participants can be from any country or school. No academic or financial requirements. Parental permission is required for those aged 11-12.
- Grade level
- Grade 6 to 12
- Age range
- 11 to 17 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- None specified, open to all students with a passion for poetry.
- Prerequisites
- A passion for poetry and creative writing.
- Ability to write original poems in English.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Mentorship, Publication & More
The top 15 winners receive a mentoring package or a residential writing course and are published in a prestigious print anthology. 85 commended poets are published in an online anthology. All 100 winners receive a year's Youth Membership of The Poetry Society and a goody bag with books and other treats.
Certificate
Certificate from The Poetry Society
All participants receive an e-certificate of participation from The Poetry Society, recognizing their effort and engagement in this prestigious international competition.
Opens doors to
Winning or being commended in this prestigious international competition is a significant achievement that can enhance applications to top universities worldwide, particularly for literature, creative writing, and humanities programs.
Career pathways
The award has a strong track record of launching the careers of successful poets, editors, and literary professionals. The Poetry Society continues to support winners throughout their careers, providing publication, performance, and development opportunities.
Recognition
Prestigious International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 9 Apr 2026
- Registration closed
- 31 Jul 2026
- Competition
- 9 Apr 2026 to 31 Jul 2026
How to apply
- 1Submit poems online through the official competition website.
- 2Teachers can submit class sets of poems via a dedicated portal.
- 3Poems can also be submitted by post.
Rules and guidelines
- Poems must be the original work of the sole author; collaboration is prohibited.
- Poems must be unpublished and not have won any other competition.
- Poems must be written in English, with short phrases in other languages allowed.
- Poems must be 40 lines or shorter.
- Participants may submit multiple poems, but quality over quantity is advised.
- Winners must provide a biography, photograph, permission form, and proof of age.
Technology requirements
- Internet access for online submission.
About this opportunity
The Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award is one of the largest and most prestigious poetry competitions globally for young writers aged 11 to 17. Organized by The Poetry Society, this annual award aims to discover and celebrate new poetic voices from around the world. It provides a significant platform for young poets to showcase their talent and accelerate their writing careers.
This competition is open to individuals aged 11-17 on the closing date, with entries accepted from anywhere in the world. Participants can submit poems on any theme and in any style, provided they are original, unpublished, and written in English. There is no entry fee, making it accessible to a wide range of aspiring poets.
Winners receive a range of valuable prizes, including publication in a prestigious anthology, a mentoring package, and a year's youth membership to The Poetry Society. The award offers ongoing support, development opportunities, and significant recognition that can greatly benefit future academic and literary pursuits. It has a proven track record of launching the careers of many successful poets. All participants receive an e-certificate of participation.
Rounds and format
Participants submit their poems for judging. A panel of high-profile poets selects 100 winners (15 top winners and 85 commended poets).
How entries are judged
Originality, creativity, poetic craft, and overall impact of the poem.
Selection process
Poems are judged based on their artistic merit, originality, and adherence to competition rules. The judges look for exciting new voices and compelling poetic expression.
How to prepare
- Review past winning poems and anthologies.
- Explore writing tips and resources on the Young Poets Network.
- Attend webinars or workshops offered by The Poetry Society.
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
Focuses on developing original poetry, exploring various themes and styles, and refining poetic craft.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key elements judges look for in a winning poem?
Judges seek originality, creativity, strong poetic craft, and a distinctive voice. Poems that demonstrate imaginative use of language and a compelling theme often stand out, showcasing a unique perspective and skillful execution.
How can young poets overcome writer's block or creative challenges during the submission period?
Experiment with different writing prompts, read widely to find inspiration, and allow for breaks to refresh perspective. Focusing on themes that genuinely resonate with the poet can also help spark creativity and maintain momentum.
What kind of support and opportunities are available to winners beyond the initial award?
Winners receive mentorship, publication in anthologies, and a year's youth membership to The Poetry Society, offering ongoing development and networking within the literary community. These opportunities foster continued growth and recognition.
How does participation in this competition benefit a student's academic and future career prospects?
Recognition in this prestigious competition significantly enhances university applications, particularly for humanities and creative writing programs. It also provides a strong foundation and network for a future literary career, opening doors to publishing and related fields.
Is it beneficial for participants to submit multiple poems, or should they focus on a single strong entry?
While multiple entries are allowed for UK entrants, and one for international, the emphasis should be on quality over quantity. Submitting a few polished, impactful poems is generally more effective than many rushed ones, as judges prioritize depth and craft.
What resources are recommended for young poets looking to improve their craft before entering?
Exploring the Young Poets Network for writing tips, reading past winning poems, and engaging with poetry workshops can significantly help in refining poetic skills. These resources provide valuable insights and practical guidance for aspiring poets.
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