# Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp)

An annual global competition for creating and playing new works of interactive fiction and text-based games.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Interactive Fiction Technology Foundation |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 2026-08-28 (verified 2026-07-04) |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Anywhere (online) |
| Apply | https://ifcomp.org/ |

## About this program

The **Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp)** is an annual, international contest for writers and game creators who develop new works of interactive fiction—primarily text-based games and narrative experiences. Since 1995, IFComp has invited authors from around the world to submit original, English-language interactive stories, which are then made available online for anyone to play and judge.

IFComp is open to creators of all ages and experience levels, including high school students, as long as they can legally agree to the competition’s rules and submit work in English. Participants get valuable experience in game writing, branching narratives, and digital storytelling, along with feedback from a broad community of players, writers, and developers. The event is held entirely online, and entry is free, making it an accessible way for aspiring writers and narrative designers to build a portfolio and engage with a long-running interactive fiction community.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp) cost?

Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp) is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### What is the application deadline for Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp)?

The application deadline is August 28, 2026 (deadline last verified July 4, 2026). Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp)?

Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp) is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp) online or in person?

Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp) is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to Interactive Fiction Competition (IFComp)?

Apply directly through Interactive Fiction Technology Foundation's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-04.
Canonical page: https://extracurricularhub.com/extracurriculars/interactive-fiction-competition
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