FAQ
Eligibility and submissions
Do I need to meet the age requirement on the day I submit my entry?
Yes. You must be between 18 and 30 years old on the day you submit your entry.
Can I enter if I have previously published work?
Yes! Publications in literary journals, online platforms, and anthologies do not affect your eligibility. However, if you have previously published a book, whether through a traditional publisher or through self-publishing, you are not eligible.
How many entries can I submit?
Each applicant may submit one entry only. If more than one entry is received from the same applicant, only the first one received will be considered.
Can I submit a previously published piece if I have revised it?
No. Your entry must be an original, previously unpublished work. It must never have appeared online or in print, including on blogs, social media, or personal websites. It must not be awaiting publication, and it must not be published before the results are announced.
Can I change my entry after submitting it?
No. Once submitted, your entry cannot be changed or replaced. Please make sure your file and text are final before submitting.
Preparing your entry
How long can my entry be?
Your entry must be between 7,000 and 9,000 characters, including spaces and the title. Your pseudonym is not counted. This is approximately 4–5 typed A4 pages, depending on formatting. Entries outside this range will not be considered.
Can I use artificial intelligence (AI) to help with my entry?
Your entry must be your own original work, and its text must not have been written by AI. You make a declaration to this effect by ticking the box next to the Declaration of Originality on the entry form. You may use grammar-checking, spell-checking, and editing-assistance tools. The Organiser may ask finalists or the winner to provide evidence of their creative process, such as earlier drafts or notes. If you cannot demonstrate the authentic creative process behind your work, your entry may be disqualified or an awarded prize may be withdrawn.
Deadline and notifications
Do I have to pay to enter?
No. Entry is free.
What is the submission deadline?
Entries must be submitted by 1 January 2027 at 23:59 Central European Time (CET). Entries received after the deadline will not be accepted.
Will I receive confirmation that my entry has been received?
Yes. You will receive an automatic email confirming receipt of your entry. If you do not see it, please check your spam or junk folder. If it is still missing, email us before the deadline.
When will I hear about the results?
The winner and the honourable mention will be notified at the same time in April 2027. Both will be acknowledged at the awards ceremony, which will be held in Budapest in May 2027. The honourable mention will also be mentioned in the press coverage published after the event. All applicants will receive an email informing them of the outcome of the competition.
What does the honourable mention receive?
The honourable mention will be recognised at the awards ceremony and mentioned in the post-event press coverage. It does not include a monetary prize or publication of the entry.
Further questions
Who can I contact if I still have a question?
If you have read the Call for Entries and this FAQ but still need clarification, please email us at yuhu@yuhudij.com.