# NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing The NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing, organized by the National Council of Teachers of English, is a prestigious national program that recognizes high school students in grades 11-12 for their exceptional writing skills. This program celebrates excellence in the art of writing and provides a platform for young writers to gain recognition for their talent. Each year, 830 students across the country are honored with certificates of accomplishment, and their schools receive plaques in recognition of their students' achievements. This program is free to participate in and is conducted entirely online, making it accessible to eligible students nationwide. ## Program Structure The NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing is a virtual program that evaluates students' writing submissions through a structured and comprehensive process. While specific timelines may vary, the program typically involves a nomination phase, submission of student work, and a detailed evaluation by experts in writing and English education. Students are required to submit original written work, which may include creative pieces such as poetry, essays, or other forms of written expression. Submissions are judged based on originality, technical skill, and the ability to engage and move readers. The program culminates in the announcement of recipients, with students and their schools receiving recognition for their achievements. ## What Students Experience Students participating in the NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing gain valuable experience in honing their writing skills and showcasing their unique voice. The program challenges students to craft meaningful and impactful pieces of writing, encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression. While the focus is on writing excellence, the program also provides participants with the opportunity to develop discipline and resilience by meeting submission requirements and adhering to guidelines. Although there is no direct mentorship component, students receive invaluable feedback through the selection process, which helps them refine their craft and prepares them for future academic and creative endeavors. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Earning recognition through the NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing is a significant accolade that can strengthen a student's college applications. As a national program organized by the reputable National Council of Teachers of English, this achievement highlights a student's dedication to the arts, particularly in writing and English. Colleges and universities value evidence of creativity, communication skills, and academic excellence, all of which this award exemplifies. Additionally, being one of only 830 students nationwide to receive this recognition demonstrates a student's ability to excel among peers on a national level, making their application stand out. ## Eligibility The NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing is open to high school juniors and seniors (grades 11-12) who attend schools in the United States. Students must be nominated by an English teacher at their school, and nominations are limited to one student per school. Each nominated student must submit original work according to the program's guidelines, which typically include a themed writing prompt and a sample of their best writing. ## How to Participate To participate in the NCTE Achievement Awards in Writing, students must first be nominated by their school’s English teacher. Once nominated, students will receive specific instructions on how to prepare and submit their writing samples. Deadlines for nominations and submissions vary each year, so it is essential for interested students to coordinate with their teacher and check the program's website for up-to-date information. For more details and to access the official guidelines, visit the [NCTE website](http://www.ncte.org/awards/achievement-awards-in-writing).