2026 HG Wells Short Story Competition: A Chance to Showcase Your Writing Skills
By: HG Wells Short Story CompetitionLast update:
Open NowRecurring Opportunity
Applications open annually from early January until July 7, noting that the story theme changes each year.
Opens: Jan 7, 2026Closes: Jul 8, 202679 days left
Applicant criteria
NationalityNo specific nationality required
Age
- No specific age required
Gender
- Both
Opportunity description
A great opportunity for writers to participate in the HG Wells Short Story Competition 2026, inspired by the works of H. G. Wells. The competition is open to all nationalities and targets writers interested in short story writing in English under this year’s theme, “The Cheat.”
Program Details
- The competition is open globally, inviting participants of all nationalities and residences.
- Submissions must be written in English and should not have been previously published.
- Word count for stories should range between 1,500 and 5,000 words.
Benefits
- £1,000 prize for the under 21 winner.
- £500 prize for the over 21 winner.
- Publication of shortlisted entries in a quality anthology.
Eligibility criteria
- Entries must be in English only.
- Open to writings from all ages and nationalities.
- Story must be unpublished prior to submission.
- No entry fee for participants under 21, nominal fees for those older.
If you are interested in writing stories, apply to the annual international writing competition for short stories and essays.