Cancer Pathways Teen Writing Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Cancer Unwrapped
Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2026, our national Teen Writing Contest welcomes high school students to tell their stories about living with cancer—whether it’s their own diagnosis or that of someone close to them.
The 2026 Teen Writing Contest is now accepting entries.
Eligibility & entry requirements
- Who may enter: Students in grades 9–12 who live in the United States and have been impacted by cancer.
- Length: Submissions must be no longer than 1,500 words.
- Format limits: Poems, works of fiction, and essays about pets are not eligible.
- Originality: Entries must be the contestant’s own original work and written in their own voice.
- Deadline: All essays must be received by Friday, February 27, 2026.
Prizes and winner information
- Cash awards: Winners receive $1,000.
- Tax paperwork: Winning entrants will be required to complete an IRS W-9 form.
- Celebration: Awardees will be invited to a virtual ceremony and asked to read their essays at that event.
About the contest
Finding out about a cancer diagnosis—your own or someone else’s—can bring a wide range of emotions. We’re looking for honest, personal essays that describe what you experienced, how it affected your life, and what you took away from it. Over the years we’ve collected stories of resilience, grief, growth, and quiet reflection—each one unique and heartfelt.
Since the contest began in 2006, more than 11,000 teens in grades 9–12 have submitted entries and we’ve awarded upward of $370,000 in prizes. We invite you to enter a short essay for the chance to win $1,000 and share your story with others.