Overview

Writers across the Commonwealth are invited to prepare for the 2027 edition of the prestigious Commonwealth Foundation Commonwealth Short Story Prize, an annual literary award that celebrates outstanding unpublished short fiction. With a top cash award of £5,000, publication opportunities, and worldwide recognition, the 2027 Commonwealth Short Story Prize presents a valuable opportunity for writers seeking to expand their literary careers.

Key Responsibilities

The Commonwealth Short Story Prize is designed to spotlight exceptional storytelling from across the Commonwealth’s diverse member states. The competition is structured around five regional categories: Africa, Asia, Canada & Europe, The Caribbean, and The Pacific. Each year, one winner is selected from each region, and from these regional winners, one overall winner is chosen to receive the grand prize.

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be citizens of a Commonwealth country
Submit unpublished short fiction
Present stories between 2,000 and 5,000 words
Write in English (translations may be considered under specific guidelines)

Both emerging and experienced writers are welcome to apply. The prize actively supports diverse literary expression and encourages stories that reflect unique cultural experiences and perspectives from across the Commonwealth.

Benefits

£5,000 cash prize for the overall winner
International publication
Global recognition and credibility
Increased exposure to literary agents and publishers
Access to a broad network of writers and literary professionals

Location

Global

How to Apply

Writers interested in participating in the 2027 edition should monitor the official platform of the Commonwealth Foundation for updates and application guidelines ahead of the September 2026 opening date. Applicants are advised to carefully review submission requirements and formatting instructions before submitting their entries. Early preparation is strongly recommended to ensure compliance with word count, eligibility, and submission standards.