Update 04/11/2026
We are delighted to announce the winners of the 2026 Roehampton Creative Writing Prize for Microfiction.
There were 114 submissions for the prize, and the judges were exceptionally impressed by the quality of the work submitted, which came in from all over the world, showing the vitality and potential of microfiction – pieces of 300 words or less.
Two pieces were joint winners of the prize: “Stiletto Boots” by Daniel Seifert, and “Those Were Our Grandparents” by Noah Barrera.
The third prize for runner-up goes to “On Edge On Eigg” by Sophie Lau.
Dr Tim Atkins, Programme Leader for the MA Creative Writing at Roehampton, says: "We’ve been blown away by the variety and quality of entries for this, our inaugural microfiction prize. We didn’t want to have to decide between our two winners—and so we haven’t. It is a pleasure to congratulate Noah Barrera, and Daniel Seifert on such marvellous pieces. It has been a joy to read every entry."
The Fincham Press New Writers’ Series, in association with the MA Creative Writing programme at Roehampton, are delighted to announce the 2026 Roehampton Creative Writing Prize for Microfiction.
We’re looking for submissions of original microfiction, of 300 words or less (the title doesn’t count), for the most small, but perfectly formed story of 300 words – or any number of shorter stories that add up in total to 300 words. What can you tell us in 300 words? Can you surprise, thrill, and move us? Experimental and innovative approaches are welcome, as are all forms of genre fiction – including crime, fantasy and science fiction – as well as autofiction, life-writing, and writing for young readers. Writing that takes risks (of any kind) will be particularly rewarded.
Entries are open from 15 June to 1st September 2026 (14:00 BST), and we have £350 in prizes to give away. We will announce the winners on 30 October 2026. There is no entry fee.
Tim Atkins, Programme Leader for the MA Creative Writing at Roehampton, says: “No filler, all killer: The 2026 Roehampton Creative Writing Prize for Microfiction is your chance to win big in under 300 words. We are looking for pieces of up to 300 words in any genre. What do you have to say? The competition closes on 1st September 2026. With the 2026 Roehampton Creative Writing Prize for Microfiction, there's no time to waste.”
Please read the eligibility and entry rules before submitting. Entries should be sent by email to microfictionprize@roehampton.ac.uk
Email tim.atkins@roehampton.ac.uk if you have any questions.