National Student Playwriting Competition

# National Student Playwriting Competition The National Student Playwriting Competition is a prestigious program hosted by the Kennedy Center that invites high school students across the United States to showcase their talent in writing original plays. This unique opportunity allows young playwrights to bring their creative visions to life and gain national recognition for their work. Selected plays may even be produced and performed at the renowned Kennedy Center, making this an extraordinary experience for aspiring theater artists. ## Program Structure This program is entirely virtual, allowing students from anywhere in the USA to participate. The competition follows a structured timeline, beginning with the submission of original play scripts. The Kennedy Center reviews submissions and selects finalists based on creativity, originality, and writing skill. Finalists receive mentorship from professional playwrights and theater artists to refine their scripts. The program culminates in a celebration of student work, during which selected plays may be produced and showcased at the Kennedy Center. While specific dates for submissions and events vary annually, students are encouraged to check the program’s official website for the most up-to-date deadlines and guidelines. ## What Students Experience Participants in the National Student Playwriting Competition gain hands-on experience in the art of playwriting. Students receive constructive feedback on their scripts, providing them with valuable insights into the craft of storytelling and dramatic structure. Finalists also have the chance to work with experienced mentors, learning how to refine their scripts and bring their creative ideas to life. For those whose plays are selected for production, the experience expands to include collaboration with actors, directors, and stage designers. This exposure to the professional theater world is a rare and invaluable opportunity for high school students passionate about the arts. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in the National Student Playwriting Competition demonstrates creativity, initiative, and dedication to the arts—qualities highly regarded by college admissions committees. Finalists and winners receive national recognition for their achievements, which can significantly boost the strength of their applications, especially if they plan to pursue majors in theater, literature, or other creative fields. Moreover, the mentorship and hands-on learning experiences provide impressive material for personal essays and interviews. ## Eligibility The competition is open to high school students in grades 9-12 residing in the United States. No prior experience in playwriting or theater is required—students simply need a passion for storytelling and the arts. Submissions must be original works written entirely by the student. ## How to Participate To participate, students must submit their original play scripts through the Kennedy Center’s official competition platform. Specific deadlines and submission guidelines vary each year, so it’s important to check the program’s website regularly for updates. The program is free to enter, making it accessible to all eligible students. Visit the Kennedy Center’s official page for the National Student Playwriting Competition to learn more about submission requirements and deadlines: [Kennedy Center Playwriting Competition](https://www.kennedy-center.org).