Entry Requirements for the Caine Prize Online Editing Programme

The Online Editing Programme is a tailored, 12-week initiative focusing on fiction writing. It provides structured support to selected emerging African writers through one-to-one guidance, group workshops and written feedback enabling writers to develop new short stories from draft to publishable standard. 

In addition to developmental editing support, participants gain valuable industry insight and have the opportunity to build a strong network of fellow African writers through interactive Q&A sessions and masterclasses led by some of the most influential voices in contemporary literature.

Please review the following submission guidelines carefully:

  1. The programme is open to emerging African writers residing either on the continent or in the diaspora. To be eligible, applicants must meet all the following criteria: 

    • Be 18 years or older at the time of submission.

    • Be an African writer - this is taken to mean someone who was born in Africa, or who is a national of an African country, or who has a parent who is African by birth or nationality.

    • Have not published a full-length book (fiction or non-fiction) or short story collection.

    • Have not won or been shortlisted for any national, regional, or international literary award. 

    • Have at least two short stories published in established print or online outlets. Self-published work does not qualify. 

  2. This opportunity is specifically for African writers working on short stories. The following genres are not eligible:

    • Novels

    • Children’s literature

    • Non-fiction (including journalism, essays, memoirs, biographies, etc.)

    • Academic writing

    • Drama or plays

    • Poetry
      Only fictional short stories will be considered.

  3. To apply, writers must submit:

    • A story summary (no more than 300 words) outlining the short story they wish to develop; and

    • A brief bio (no more than 150 words) that highlights relevant writing experience.

    • At least two proofs of publication.

  4. Each applicant may submit only one entry. Multiple entries from the same writer will lead to disqualification.

  5. All submissions must clearly state: 

    • The writer’s African country of origin; and 

    • The title or working title of the proposed short story. 

  6. Selected participants must agree to have their completed stories published in the Caine Prize anthology. By participating, writers grant the Caine Prize exclusive global print and digital rights, effective from the date of contract signing.

Please note that submissions that do not meet these criteria will not be considered. The Caine Prize reserves the right to request proof of nationality.

If you have any questions regarding eligibility or the submission process, feel free to contact us at info@caineprize.com  — we are happy to assist.