2026 YoungArts National Competition
Description
For many young people, applying to YoungArts may be the first step in affirming “I am an artist.” YoungArts is one of the only organizations in the U.S. that supports artists across 10 disciplines at all stages of development, beginning with the critical moment when they decide to pursue a life in the arts, and continuing throughout their careers.
Artists ages 15–18, or grades 10–12, are encouraged to apply in the discipline(s) of their choice. All applications are judged by esteemed discipline-specific panels of artists through a rigorous adjudication process, and award winners are offered a lifetime of artistic support and ongoing connection with an extraordinarily robust network of peers and mentors.
Apply for a chance to receive:
Cash awards of up to $10,000
Mentorship from guest artists
National recognition
Lifetime of support
Selection Process
Either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or can demonstrate that you're legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.
In grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year you are applying.
If selected as a winner with distinction, this would be your first time attending National YoungArts Week.
About
Established in 1981 by Lin and Ted Arison, YoungArts identifies exceptional young artists, amplifies their potential, and invests in their lifelong creative freedom. Entrance into this prestigious organization starts with a highly competitive application process for talented artists ages 15–18, or grades 10–12, in the United States. Applications are adjudicated through a rigorous anonymous process by esteemed discipline- specific panels of artists. All YoungArts award winners receive financial awards and the chance to learn from notable artists such as Debbie Allen, Mikhail Baryshnikov, Germane Barnes, Wynton Marsalis, Salman Rushdie and Mickalene Thomas.
YoungArts award winners are further eligible for exclusive opportunities, including: nomination as a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts, one of the nation’s highest honors for high school seniors; a wide range of creative development support including fellowships, residencies and awards; professional development programs offered in partnership with major institutions nationwide; additional financial support; and access to YoungArts Post, a private, online portal for YoungArts artists to connect, share their work and discover new opportunities.
Past YoungArts award winners include Daniel Arsham, Terence Blanchard, Camille A. Brown, Timothée Chalamet, Viola Davis, Amanda Gorman, Judith Hill, Jennifer Koh, Tarell Alvin McCraney, Andrew Rannells, Desmond Richardson and Hunter Schafer.