Frequently asked questions

Hello Future Young Science Writer Award Winners 👋

Here is a list of handy frequently asked questions to help you with your submission. However, if you don't see your question below then please reach out to the young science writer award manager Maisie at [email protected].

Who will judge my essay?

A list of names will be published after the submission closing date. The judges will include science journalists and editors from the ABSW, media outlets and from academic institutions across the world.

How will my essay be judged?

It will be judged on:

Clarity of writing. As you have 800 words or fewer to write for a general audience you will need to make sure your essay is focused enough to be clear and concise.
Supporting evidence. Citing sources and including references to studies for example.
Language and style. Are you telling a captivating and engaging story. For example: Does your opening paragraph hook the reader?

Can I take part if I am home-schooled?

Yes, those teenagers who are home-schooled due to disability are most welcome to submit an essay - please let us know if this is the case in the school name and address section of the form.

Am I a student at an eligible school?

If your school is listed on a Council website and is a non-selective, state funded school, then it meets the eligibility criteria. If you are in doubt, then please get in touch.

Who is eligible to participate in this contest?

In 2025 the competition is open to students from non-selective state funded schools and who are home-schooled, aged 14-16 years, across the UK.

Can I submit a previously published essay (i.e. in my school newspaper)?

No. We ask that your essay be original for this competition. Please don’t submit anything you have already published at the time of submission, whether in a school newspaper, for another contest or anywhere else.

I have entered before, can I enter again?

If you have entered the competition before, then you are certainly welcome to apply again provided you still meet the eligibility criteria. We also ask that you do not submit the same essay twice and ensure that your entry in 2025 if different to any you have submitted in previous years.

Can I submit more than one entry?

No. We can accept only one entry per student. Additionally, we recommend that prior to submission, you ensure that you are uploading the correct entry as once submitted we will not accept additional changes. If you believe there has been an error with your submission, then please email to discuss.