Calls for Submissions April 2026

Each month we curate a list of contests, fellowships, and other writing opportunities with approaching deadlines. Opportunities will be posted in the month prior to their deadlines, so that you have ample time to submit your work or applications.

Fiction Contests

Orison Fiction Prize
Eligibility: All fiction writers except those already published by Orison Books
Prize: $1,500
Entry Fee: $25
Deadline: April 1, 2026

Poetry Contests

Orison Poetry Prize
Eligibility: All poets except those already published by Orison Books
Prize: $1,500
Entry Fee: $25
Deadline: April 1, 2026

Agnes Lynch Starrett Poetry Prize
Eligibility: Poets who have not had a full-length book of poetry published previously
Prize: $5,000 + publication
Entry fee: $25
Deadline: April 30, 2026

Writing Fellowships & Residencies

Marguerite and Lamar Fellowship for Writers
Eligibility: All writers
Prize: $5,000 + residency in Carson McCullers’s childhood home
Deadline: April 1, 2026

Pen Parentis Writing Fellowship for New Parents
Eligibility: Parents of at least one child under 10 years of age
Prize: $2,000
Entry fee: Free for sustaining members
Deadline: April 17, 2026