The University of Waikato Sargeson Prize awards professional writers and secondary school students in New Zealand with up to $15,000 for submission of short stories. The award is sponsored by the university and opens calls for two sets of submissions for the secondary school division and the open division for experienced writers. Entries for the 2026 competition open on 1 April and close on 30 June 2026.
About The University of Waikato Sargeson Prize
The University of Waikato Sargeson Prize is sponsored by the University of Waikato’s Writing Studies programme, in recognition of Frank Sargeson, a prominent literary figure in New Zealand. The prize awards the excellence of writers and secondary school students in short fiction stories and supports them with funding of up to $15,0000 and publication opportunities.
The award is open only to New Zealand residents, and it helps to promote literary talent and enrich short stories in the country. The first prize winner of the secondary school division will be allowed to take up one week summer residency at the University of Waikato. The residency will also cover accommodation, meals and mentorship programs from postgraduate students and staff in the writing studies programme.
Funding Size
- Typical grant amount: $500 – $15,000
- Maximum award: $15,000
- Project duration supported: Not specified.
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Who Can Apply for the University of Waikato Sargeson Prize
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- Eligible organisation types: Writers and Secondary school students
- Registration requirements:
- Entries should be single stories between 3000 and 5000 words, depending on the applicant type.
- The open division is open to writers over 18, and the secondary school division is for ages 16-18.
- Geographic eligibility: New Zealand
- Sector or thematic focus: Short stories written in English.
Application Process
- Writers are to type their stories in a legible font with 1.5 line spacing.
- Fill and submit entries online or by post.
- The first prize winner of the secondary school division will be allowed to take up one week summer residency at the University of Waikato.
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Required Materials
- Completed official entry form.
- Manuscript of original short story (Word or PDF).
- Word count
Key Dates
- Application opens: April 1, 2026
- Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
- Notification timeline: Not specified
Selection Notes
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- The award is competitive due to significant prize amounts for literary fiction.
- Priority focus areas: story originality, craft, and adherence to entry criteria
- Exclusions:
- Secondary school students older than 18 years.
- Writers who are not New Zealand residents or citizens.
Official Source of the University of Waikato Sargeson Prize
- Official Application Page: https://www.waikato.ac.nz/about/faculties-schools/arts/writing-studies/sargeson-prize/