Help & FAQs

If you experience problems with the online entry process, including payments, or if you have any questions about entering the Aesthetica Creative Writing Award that can not be answered by reading the Guidelines or by looking at the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), please contact the team.

Submission Queries

How do I send my submissions to you?

Please enter through our entry platform by clicking here. The form will allow you to upload your work as a text, image or PDF document. We prefer a word or text document.

I have sent my work but have not yet heard back from you, have you received it?

One you have submitted your work, you will receive an automatic confirmation email. If you have not received confirmation, please check your email junk folder. If you haven't heard back within 48 hours, please contact us at writing@aestheticamagazine.com  

Can I enter poetry and fiction?

Yes, but you will need to purchase an entry fee for each category that you submit to. If you wish to purchase multiple entries, you are welcome to do so, but each entry requires its own entry form.

Can I enter more than one work?

Yes. You will need to purchase an entry fee for each work you submit. If you wish to purchase multiple entries, please select "add entries to cart" at the checkout. You will need to enter a title for each entry (the name can be changed once the entry has been purchased). If you submit more than one piece for one entry, we will only read the first piece.

Can I enter images with my writing?

Due to layout restrictions in the Creative Writing Annual, we cannot consider short story entries that are accompanied by images. However, if you would like to submit a visual or concrete poem – where the visual layout is integral to the piece – please submit as a PDF or image file. We also have a separate award for artists: the Aesthetica Art Prize.

Can I enter a translation?

Yes, you can submit a translation if the original work is yours and is then translated into English (translator must be credited).

Can I submit work that has been previously published elsewhere?

Yes, we accept works that have been previously published. Please include information on previous publications with your submissions. This will not affect the judging process. In the event that you are successful, it is good-practice for competitions and magazines to credit previously published works.

Can I alter my entry once it has been submitted?

 Any changes can only be done by emailing us at: writing@aestheticamagazine.com. All changes are at the judge's discretion.

What is the word limit for short fiction entries?

Short fiction entries must be no more than 2,000 words in length. Stories that exceed this limit will not be considered for publication.

What is the line limit for poetry entries?

Poetry entries should be no more than 40 lines in length.

I'm having difficulty with the online form, what should I do?

If you are having difficulty accessing the online form, or require a different version for accessibility purposes, please contact us directly at writing@aestheticamagazine.com

Can I submit screenplays, scripts or non-fiction?

No. We do not have a category for screenplays or scripts and cannot accept non-fiction entries.

General Queries

What is the time-scale?

December 2022: Open for Entries
31 August 2023: Entries Close
September - November 2023: Judging
November 2023: Shortlist announced and contacted
December 2023: Winners announced and contacted
December 2023: Aesthetica Creative Writing Annual 2024 published

Is there a theme to the award?

No, there is no theme to the Aesthetica Creative Writing Award. It is an open call for entries and you are welcome to submit work on any subject.

Who can enter the award?

Anyone can enter the Aesthetica Creative Writing Award. This is an international competition and there is no age limit; we welcome work from entrants of all ages and nationalities.

Do I retain the rights to my work?

Yes, all entrants retain the copyright to all work submitted.

Can I get feedback on my work?

Due to the number of entries received, the judges unfortunately cannot offer any feedback on unsuccessful entries.

I've missed the deadline. Can I still submit?

We will accept entries up to 5 September after the 31 August deadline, but there will be a late fee applied (£16 poetry and £22 Short Fiction).

Payment Queries

How much is it to enter?

£12 (GBP – pounds sterling) for one Poetry entry and £18 (GBP – pounds sterling) for one Short Fiction entry. We will accept entries up to 5 September after the 31 August deadline, but there will be a late fee applied (£16 poetry and £22 Short Fiction).

How can I pay my Entry Fee?

You can pay online when you submit the entry form. This can be through debit / credit card or Paypal.

What is your refund policy for competition entries?

If at any time you wish to withdraw from the Creative Writing Award, we will offer you a full refund within 28 days of the purchase date. Refunds will be made by the same method of payment. Please email us at writing@aestheticamagazine.com and explain that you would like to withdraw.

If it is after the 28 days of the purchase date, a refund cannot be processed.

A pleasant shopping experience with Aesthetica Magazine Ltd is very important to us. Our customer service is exemplary.  If you have any questions or queries regarding the award or your entry, please contact us at writing@aestheticamagazine.com .