Contest Rules

Contest is open to anyone attending school in New Jersey in the 7th through 12th grade.
Entrants under 18 must have their parent or legal guardian’s permission to enter the contest.
Submissions must be original and unpublished.
All entries must follow the rules in this document.

Each contestant can submit ONLY one entry. Duplicate entries are not accepted
There is no registration fee for submitting an entry.
Entries must be typed (or pasted) onto the online form (link will be posted here on Feb 1st 2025)
Entries must be no more than 600 words.
Entries must not include illustrations or pictures.
Essay submissions will be accepted beginning on Feb 1st
The deadline for essay submissions is midnight Feb 20th
Any deviation from these rules could be the basis for disqualification.

Contest winners will be announced on Thr Feb 27th via a press release, ICNA NJ website and social media post. All entrants will be notified of the winners via email.
The best entry from each grade category will be awarded a $300 Visa gift card.
The entire text of the overall best entry will be included in a press release announcement.
Separate second and third prizes will be awarded for each level
- Second prize for each level will be a $200 Visa gift card
- Third prize for each level will be a $100 Visa gift card.
Honorable mentions will receive a certificate.