If you want to impress a college admissions committee, foregrounding your creativity is an effective strategy. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, especially if it leads to the award of the coveted  Scholastic Gold Key prize. This article explains the value of these awards, how they can boost your college applications, and how to enroll. Now, let’s find out why this coveted award is worth your time and energy.

What are  the Scholastic Art &Writing  Award and the Scholastic Gold Key ?

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is one of the longest running and most  prestigious competitions for creative teenagers in grades 7–12, age 13 and up. Established in 1923, this program honors the creativity, innovation, and talent of young artists and writers. Over the years, it has become an effective platform for students to express themselves creatively and excel academically.

Each year, about 110,000 teens submit pieces of art and literature  in 28  subject categories, from creative writing and painting to photography and sculpture. The submissions are reviewed by a committee of scholars and artists, who then decide the winners. All the entries are first entered regionally for Gold Key, Silver Key, and Honorable Mention awards. These are all outstanding achievements that demonstrate talent and commitment to creative arts and expression. However, the Gold Key can open greater opportunities since entries that win it are automatically considered for national awards, which include Gold Medal, Silver Medal, and scholarship awards. National medalists and their mentors are honored with media exposure, cash prizes, and a star-studded ceremony at the Carnegie Hall in New York. Recent special guests include Alec Baldwin, Kelly Clarkson and Oprah Winfrey. Such an achievement can have a significant impact on your applications when getting into colleges. 

 4 Reasons To Apply for The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards

Still wondering “Is a Scholastic Gold Worth the effort?” The answer is yes. Here are four  reasons why:

1. Put Your Work in the Spotlight

Entering your work into the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards gives you special exposure. Over 1100,000 teens enter  each year, so being recognized ranks your piece as one of the best in the country. Scholastic Art And Writing regional and national awards showcase your skills to the world beyond your school or neighborhood and make you famous as a budding artist or writer. Winning works are usually displayed in galleries or magazines and promoted through media. This level of exposure can catch the eye of college admissions officers, grant committees, and even industry experts. 

2. Improve Your Craft With Professional Feedback 

One of the  best parts of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards is hearing back from the expert judges. These professionals, who include  artists, authors, and high-profile academics,  evaluate your work in terms of creativity, technical skills , and whether it takes on a unique identity or a voice. The feedback that they provide can help  hone your craft. Constructive feedback is a great way to learn because it highlights areas of improvement.

3. Connect with a Vibrant Creative Community 

Participating in the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards means joining a community of like-minded people. From the local contests to the national competitions, the competition builds an inclusive network of other students like you who love art and writing. It is also typical of program alumni , who have gone on to be famous artists and writers to interact with participants, giving their insights and experiences. Being a part of this community can provide you with the chance for long-term friendships, mentorship, and relationships beyond your academic and professional career. 

4. Win Scholarships (up to $12,500)

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards can be financially rewarding as well. If you win a Scholastic Awards Gold Key, for example, you will be entitled to scholarships worth up to $12,500. This amount can help in making college much more manageable.  

How to Submit Your Entry

To apply to the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards you must be a student in grades 7–12. Students in the 12th grade can submit a portfolio as well as individual pieces. The entry process starts with creating an account on the Scholastic Awards website and uploading your art or text. You have to pay $10 per entry or $30 for portfolios. Submissions to the competition usually open in September and close in December. Specific deadlines may vary by region, so check your region’s Scholastic Awards deadline to make sure that your work is ready on time.

Prizes 

The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards offers regional and national prizes that give young artists more recognition and visibility. Regional entries are judged and given one of three prizes — Gold Key, Silver Key, or Honorable Mention. The Gold Key is the ultimate and most elite certificate that confirms your work is exceptional. 

Regional winners are honored in an awards ceremony and the Gold Key winning paintings are displayed in a public gallery for all to see. The Scholastic Gold Key winners then go on to compete in the national competition, where it is even more competitive. National medalists can win the National Gold Key or National Silver Key award, further cementing their status as top creative artists. High-school students who submit a portfolio can win up to $12,500 in scholarships. 

Using Research to Enhance Your Preparation For The Scholastic Art & Writing Competition

If you are preparing for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards and hoping to win  the Scholastic Gold Key Award, you may consider joining   a research program. Indigo Research can help provide the support you need. Our program offers students the opportunity to carry out extended independent projects in literature and the arts under the mentorship of expert academics. Contact us today to learn more about our program.