About

The New York Times Tiny Memoir: 100-Word Personal Narrative Contest is an annual competition open to middle and high school students (ages 13-19) worldwide. It encourages participants to write a true, specific, and personal story in a narrative format, strictly limited to 100 words (not including the title). The submission window typically opens from October 22 to December 3, 2025, with winners announced in early February 2026. This contest is free to enter, but students may submit only once per year. The entries are judged by a panel on their ability to move readers with a unique and engaging portrayal of a specific life experience. Winning the contest can strengthen an application profile, and winning articles may be published by The New York Times.