Complete Guide to the Phyliss J. McCarthy Writing Scholarship
The Phyliss J. McCarthy Scholarship for Excellence in Writing is an annual contest that awards $1,000 to a high school junior or senior with the strongest original prose or poetry. Two runners-up also receive prizes and publication, giving winners international exposure at the start of their writing journeys. To qualify, applicants must be current high school juniors, seniors, or recent graduates. The competition is open to students worldwide and requires a 100% original submission in English, with a word count under 2,000. You must select one of three creative prompts: a personal narrative, an introspective letter to your future self, or an unconventional “wacky” exercise. Start drafting early, follow formatting rules, and stay within the word limit to maximize your chances. The application window closes on July 23, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST, and winners will be announced on August 6, 2026. Prepare your entry in advance and submit through the official portal before the deadline.
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