Writers of the Future, science fiction contest

This is a perpetual free contest for aspiring science fiction writers with a top prize each year of $5,000.  Established in 1983 by L. Ron Hubbard (science fiction author and founder of Scientology), the contest claims, with considerable credibility, to be "the most respected and significant forum for new talent in all aspects of speculative fiction."

No entry fee is required, and all rights in the story remain the property of the author. All types of science fiction, fantasy and dark fantasy are welcome.  No poetry or stories for children.

Entries may not have been previously published in professional media.

To be eligible, entries must be works of prose, up to 17,000 words in length.

The Contest is open only to those who have not had professionally published a novel or short novel, or more than one novelette, or more than three short stories, in any medium. Professional publication is deemed to be payment, and at least 5,000 copies, or 5,000 hits.

There shall be three cash prizes in each quarter: a First Prize of $1,000, a Second Prize of $750, and a Third Prize of $500, in U.S. dollars or the recipient's locally equivalent amount. In addition, at the end of the year the four First Place winners will have their entries rejudged, and a Grand Prize winner shall be determined and receive an additional $5,000. All winners will also receive trophies or certificates.

Four deadlines a year: December 31, March 31, June 30, and September 30.

Winners and finalists may be included in the annual Writers of the Future Anthology.

Complete rules here: http://www.writersofthefuture.com/rules.htm

There's also an Illustrators of the Future contest for new and amateur science fiction and fantasy artists.

Note: For information about all the annual writing contests in Canada, order The Canadian Writers' Contest Calendar. Details here.

For information about Brian Henry's writing workshops and creative writing courses, see here.