The University of North Texas Press: Vassar Miller Prize in Poetry
Overview
The Vassar Miller Prize in Poetry, hosted by the University of North Texas Press, is an annual competition that selects a full-length poetry manuscript for publication. The press has a longstanding commitment to literary excellence, and the prize is named after Vassar Miller, a distinguished poet and alumna of the University of North Texas. Winning the prize entails publication by UNT Press, a respected academic publisher with a national distribution network, ensuring the selected work reaches a broad readership. The competition is open to poets at any stage of their careers, though the press seeks manuscripts of exceptional craft and vision. The judge for each year's prize is a notable poet, and their selection reflects a curatorial eye for work that is both innovative and deeply resonant. The prize includes a standard royalty contract and publication in both print and digital formats, with a targeted release in April 2027. Submissions are accepted online, and the entry fee is $25. The press encourages poets to submit manuscripts that demonstrate a cohesive thematic or stylistic arc, as the prize aims to champion collections that contribute meaningfully to contemporary poetry. The deadline is fixed: October 31, 2026. This is a serious venue for poets seeking a reputable press and a committed readership.