The University of Iowa is known across the country as the Writing University. Now you can be a part of that legacy by entering one of our online writing contests.
You don't need to be an Iowa Writers' Workshop graduate or an accomplished author to participate. You just need an imagination, a little free time, and preferably a quiet space to channel your creativity.
The UI Alumni and Friends Writing Contests have something for everyone. Consider this your official invite to our writing community.
Join us for these opportunities to spark your imagination:
January 16—18, 2026
Write a story in 48 hours and 1,000 words or less. We'll give you a genre, character (e.g., bus driver), and specific object to incorporate into your story.
July 13—24, 2026
Test your writing efficiency with a story of 100 words or less, incorporating a provided theme.
November 3—14, 2025
Try your hand at a haiku that uses a 5-7-5 syllable pattern and provided theme.
Want updates about upcoming writing opportunities? Select your preferences to receive what matters most to you.
Join the Write Now List
Keep Writing. Keep Connecting.
Join fellow Hawkeye writers in the Write Now Writers Club! This virtual writing community meets in small groups to discuss stories inspired by a shared writing prompt.
This is not a competition; it is a community-centered writing experience designed to support creativity, reflection, and connection.
About the Writers Club
Writers Club welcomes writers of all experience levels. Participation in Write Now contests is not required.
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Creative writing prompts
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Independent writing time
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Small-group discussion via Zoom
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Encouraging, thoughtful peer feedback
Participants write, share, and discuss short stories in a supportive environment focused on storytelling and connection.
How It Works
1. Register
Join an upcoming Writers Club session.
2. Write
Choose one of two prompts and write a story of 1,000 words or fewer.
3. Submit
Email your story by the session deadline.
4. Read
Receive stories from your small group and review them before your discussion.
5. Discuss
Join a small-group Zoom session to share reflections and discuss each other's work.
What to Expect
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Two creative prompts per session. Choose one.
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One to two weeks to write a story of up to 1,000 words
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Small groups (approximately 4—5 writers)
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Virtual discussion via Zoom
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Supportive, constructive conversation
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A welcoming community of Hawkeye writers
Upcoming Session
Deadline to register: Oct. 2
Writing Period: Sept. 25—Oct. 9
Submission Deadline: Oct. 9 at 4:00 p.m. CT
Stories Shared: Oct. 13
Discussion Sessions: Oct. 19—23
Stay Connected
Want updates on future writing opportunities? Sign up to receive information about upcoming contests and Writers Club sessions.
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