The Foyle Young Poets

The Foyle Young Poets competition is a highly regarded global contest for young writers between the ages of 11 and 17. Since its launch in 1998, the competition has become one of the most significant literary events worldwide, attracting thousands of entries annually from aspiring poets around the globe.

Interested in the competition?

Competition Overview

11-17 years old around the world

Eligibility

Free

Entry Fee

July 31, 2026 at Midnight BST

Submission Deadline

📌 Note: Aralia is not the organizer of this competition. For official rules, deadlines, and updates, please refer directly to the competition organizer. Aralia provides listings and information about competitions for student reference. Aralia is an online education platform offering competition preparation classes to students worldwide.

Competition Details

1. Eligibility

This competition is open to students ages 11-17 as of the competition deadline. Ages 11–12 need parent/guardian consent when entering.

2. Submission

UK entrants: up to 3 poems

International entrants: 1 poem

Poems must be 40 lines or shorter; participants can submit as many poems as they wish, and poems can be on any theme.

3. Originality

Poems must be the original work of the author and must not have been created using AI.

4. Results

Contest winners will be announced in the autumn. All winners will be required to provide a biography, photograph, permission form, and proof of age.

5. Prizes

Top 15 winners: Published in a print anthology (also available online) and receive a mentoring package from The Poetry Society (e.g., workshops, feedback, or a writing residency).
85 commended poets: Published in an online anthology and listed in the print anthology.
All 100 winners: Receive a one-year Youth Membership and ongoing support, including opportunities for publication, performance, and networking.

Prizes: