2026 Chesapeake Writers’ Conference Youth Pen Scholarship (High school-age students only)
NOTE: THESE SCHOLARSHIPS ARE FOR HIGH SCHOOL-AGE STUDENTS ONLY. SEE COMPLETE GUIDELINES BELOW.
Scholarship Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 (midnight, EST)
This scholarship covers the tuition for the ‘Youth Workshop Only’ option and allows the recipient to attend for free, courtesy of the SMCM Arts Alliance.
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must complete the online application form and submit a writing sample with it.
Submit this completed form and your writing sample using the Google Form linked here.
- Completed Application Worksheet (linked here).
- Complete and save as a PDF so you can upload it to the Google Form.
- For your Writing Sample:
- Submit one original writing sample (fiction, poetry, essay).
- Maximum length: 1,000 words for fiction or essays or 3 poems. You may submit a combination of the three, not to exceed 1,000 words.
- Format: Double-spaced, 12-point font, standard margins.
- Submission Deadline:
- All applications and materials must be submitted by midnight on March 31, 2026.
- Submission Method:
- Please submit all materials via the online form.
- If you have any trouble with the form, please email cdoliver@smcm.edu.
- Please submit all materials via the online form.
Eligibility:
- Applicants must be high school-aged (registered in grades 9-12 or homeschool equivalent).
- Applicants must be residents of St. Mary’s County, MD.
- Applicants must be available to attend the full duration of the Chesapeake Writers' Conference youth workshop (daily, Monday, June 22-26, 1:15 - 4:15 p.m.)
Judging Criteria:
- Originality and creativity of writing sample.
- Passion for writing is demonstrated in the essay questions.
- Potential for growth and development as a writer.
- Recommendation letter strength, if submitted.
Award Details:
- Winners will be notified by April 30, 2026.
- The scholarship covers the Youth Workshop tuition only. Travel, optional meals, and optional lodging are the student's responsibility.
- The scholarship has no monetary value.
Tips for Applicants:
- Proofread your application materials carefully.
- Showcase your unique voice and writing style.
- Let your passion for writing and creativity shine through!
- If you have any questions, please contact Conference Director, Crystal Oliver, at cdoliver@smcm.edu.
This scholarship is funded by a generous grant from the SMCM Arts Alliance.
