Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition 2026

The Seán Ó Faoláin International Short Story Competition is organised by the Munster Literature Centre, a not-for-profit organisation based in Cork, Ireland. Named after one of Ireland’s most celebrated short story writers and theorists, the competition is judged in 2026 by Louise Hegarty, whose fiction has appeared in Banshee, The Stinging Fly, and The Dublin Review, and whose debut novel Fair Play and short story collection Getting the Electric are published by Picador.

Entrants must submit an original, previously unpublished and unbroadcast short story in English of up to 3,000 words. Any subject and any style is welcome; translated work is not eligible. Multiple entries are permitted, each requiring a separate fee. Simultaneous submissions are accepted, but entrants must notify the organisers immediately if a story is accepted elsewhere.

The competition is open to writers of any nationality living anywhere in the world. Entries may be submitted by email or post. Previous first-prize winners are not eligible to enter again.

The first-place winner receives €2,000, a featured reading at the Cork International Short Story Festival (with four nights’ hotel accommodation and full board for those based outside Cork), and publication in Southword. The second-place winner receives €800 and publication; four runners-up each receive €400 and publication.

Is this competition legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any event, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work.

FAQ
If you are curious how writing competitions work, or it’s your first time entering one, we recommend reading our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page first.