The UIL Online News Contest offers students a unique opportunity to showcase their skills in digital journalism and multimedia storytelling. With 27 distinct categories, ranging from news writing and photo slideshows to podcasts and multimedia packages, this contest emphasizes creativity and technical expertise in the evolving landscape of online media. Students are encouraged to submit original work that has been published during the competition period, highlighting their ability to engage audiences through compelling content. This contest not only recognizes individual achievement but also helps prepare students for the growing demands of digital journalism.

Explore the categories and submission guidelines to see how you can turn your passion for online storytelling into an award-winning entry!

Judging Criteria and Awards

Entries in the UIL Online News Contest are evaluated based on their creativity, technical skill, and adherence to journalistic standards. Judges look for excellence in storytelling, the effective use of multimedia elements, and the ability to engage an online audience. Each category has specific criteria that entries must meet to be considered for awards.

Judging Criteria:

• Originality: All submissions must be original student work and demonstrate creativity in both content and presentation.
• Quality of Writing: Clear, concise, and compelling writing that adheres to journalistic standards is critical across all writing categories.
• Technical Skill: In multimedia categories, judges assess the seamless integration of video, audio, and graphics, as well as the overall production quality.
• Engagement: Submissions should demonstrate an ability to engage readers or viewers, holding their attention through well-constructed stories or visual presentations.
• Relevance: Entries must present timely, accurate information, with a focus on journalistic integrity and news value.

Awards:

The contest recognizes outstanding individual achievement in each category with gold, silver, and bronze medals. Results are announced at the annual ILPC (Interscholastic League Press Conference) convention, held in Austin, Texas. This prestigious event brings together top journalism students from across the state to celebrate their achievements and network with industry professionals.

Participation in the UIL Online News Contest not only builds a strong portfolio but also provides valuable experience in the growing field of digital journalism. Winning entries can set students apart as they pursue further education and careers in media.

Students are encouraged to strive for excellence, with the possibility of receiving statewide recognition for their work.

How to Get Started

Participating in the UIL Online News Contest is simple and straightforward. To begin, students need to review the categories, decide which one aligns with their interests and strengths, and prepare their entries based on the rules outlined in the contest guidelines. Follow these steps to get started:

Steps to Enter:

1. Select a Category: Choose from one of the 27 available categories, including news writing, podcasts, multimedia packages, and more. Each category has specific requirements, so be sure to review the details carefully.

2. Prepare Your Entry: Whether you’re submitting a written piece, a multimedia package, or a photo slideshow, ensure your work is original, polished, and adheres to the contest guidelines. Remember, only work published between February 15, 2024, and February 15, 2025, is eligible for submission.

3. Submit Your Entry: Upload your entry in the required format (PDF, JPEG, or through a link) via the UIL submission portal before the deadline. Be sure to double-check that all aspects of your entry meet the contest rules.

4. Follow Up: Once your entry is submitted, keep an eye out for updates and announcements related to judging and awards. Results will be announced at the ILPC convention in Austin, Texas, where the top entries will be awarded medals.

Why Participate?

The UIL Online News Contest is an excellent opportunity for students to develop their journalism and digital media skills. It provides a platform to showcase your creativity, receive valuable feedback, and gain recognition at the state level. Additionally, students who participate in these contests build strong portfolios that can help them in future educational or career pursuits in journalism and media.

Take the first step towards competing, and who knows — your work might just be the next award-winning entry!

Ready to Compete?

The UIL Online News Contest provides a valuable platform for students to engage in digital journalism and multimedia storytelling across 27 diverse categories. From news writing to podcasts and multimedia packages, students can submit original work and develop critical skills in content creation. With a clear submission process, specific judging criteria, and opportunities for statewide recognition through the UIL’s awards system, the contest allows participants to showcase their talents while preparing for future careers in journalism and media. Students are encouraged to explore the various contest categories, adhere to the submission guidelines, and take part in this enriching competition.