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Literary Journal

Harvard Review

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#240 Overall · 39.8 ptsTier 4
Journals & literary magazines2 open opportunities listed

About the magazine

Founded in 1986 and published by the Houghton Library at Harvard University, Harvard Review is a distinguished literary journal that publishes poetry, fiction, essays, and book reviews. From its inception, the journal has sought to bridge the academic and the contemporary, offering a platform for both emerging and established voices. Its core mission is to champion writing that is intellectually rigorous yet accessible, with a particular emphasis on work that engages with the literary tradition while pushing its boundaries. The journal appears twice yearly, with each issue featuring a curated selection of new writing alongside thoughtful criticism.

Editorial focus

Harvard Review publishes short fiction, poetry, essays, interviews, and book reviews. Writers at all stages of their careers are invited to apply, however, the magazine can only publish a very small fraction of the material received. Editors read poetry submissions during the month of August, and fiction and essay submissions are read on a rolling basis throughout the year (see social media accounts for periodic updates).

PoetryFictionCreative NonfictionTranslation

Submitting your work

Reading periodAug 1 to Aug 31
Reading feeYes
PaymentCash
Response timeGreater than 6 months
Simultaneous submissionsYes
Unsolicited submissionsYes

Writers should familiarize themselves with recent issues to understand the journal's aesthetic, which favors well-crafted, thoughtful work over trend-driven pieces. Submissions are accepted via Submittable during designated reading periods, typically from September to May. Simultaneous submissions are permitted, but notify promptly if accepted elsewhere. Include a brief cover letter and adhere strictly to genre guidelines: up to five poems, or prose under 5,000 words. Expect response times of three to six months. The editors appreciate concise, polished prose and poetry that demonstrates a command of language and a depth of insight.

We recommend that writers familiarize themselves with Harvard Review before submitting work.

Read official guidelines

Submission calls

2 listed
OpenDeadline · 2026-12-02

Harvard Review — Essays

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OpenDeadline · 2026-12-02

Harvard Review: Fiction Submissions

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