Please ensure you read the rules carefully before entering the competition.
Entry implies acceptance of all rules, and failure to comply may result in disqualification.
Disqualification
We disqualify submissions if they are published elsewhere, over the word limit, or do not meet the criteria specified in the ‘eligibility’ section.
General
Submissions can be on any subject in any style or form. Children, sci-fi, war, erotic: let your imagination free! You can enter any number of stories, but each will be subject to the full entry fee. If you submit in error and want to withdraw or exchange your story, please email submissions@new2thescene.co.uk with ‘exchange’ or ‘withdraw’ as the subject. This must be done before the deadline.
Entry fees will not be refunded.
Deadline
The deadline date for submissions is 23:59 (UK time) on the date stated in the details section on the website. Submissions after this time will not be accepted.
Length
Word count: 4000 words max. No minimum. Title not included in the word count.
Format
- Add the word count to the top right of the first page. The title is not included in the word count but if you include a glossary of terms, this is included.
- Do not add a front cover or title pages.
- Use any font in 12pt.
- Save the file as a Microsoft Word document (.doc or .docx).
- The file name should be the title of the story followed by the entrant’s name e.g. Northern Lights by Philip Pullman.
- Accompanying emails and/or extra information will not be read.
Cost
There is no limit to the number of submissions, however each submission requires full payment of £5.
Judging
The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence can be entered into. Judges are unable to comment on individual submissions. Judging is fair and unbiased. New2theScene reserves the right to change the panel of judges without notice.
Copyright
Worldwide copyright of each submission remains with the author, however New2theScene has unrestricted rights to publish the winning story and notable mentions of its competitions in an anthology, anywhere on its website, and on any relevant promotional material.
Results & Awards
Winners and notable mentions will be notified by email within two weeks of the competition closure. Awards and timelines for delivery will be emailed at the same time. If entrants have not had correspondence by this date, they have not been successful.
Receipts
Proof of entry will be displayed on the website once payment and submission has been received.
