Submissions open 10/01-10/31
Our theme is transformation: the shift between seasons, the changes in life and the metamorphosis of bodies, or even transformation of a more monstrous type. (Or perhaps your transformation from slacker to academic weapon as midterms season closes in . . .)
Calling all UC Berkeley student writers (undergraduate and graduate)—come submit to our October Short Fiction and Art Contest! Only previously unpublished work, following the guidelines below and theme of transformation will be considered. We look forward to reviewing your work!
| Requirement | Art Submissions | Fiction Submissions |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | 1. UC Berkeley students only 2. Only one submission per author/artist 3. Only original and previously unpublished work of any genre or style (following our theme of transformation) 4. $35 cash prize for first place, and $25 for others | 1. UC Berkeley students only 2. Only one submission per author/artist 3. Only original and previously unpublished work of any genre or style (following our theme of transformation) 4. $35 cash prize for first place, and $25 for others |
| Submission rules | 1. Trim Size: 5.125 inches wide x 8 inches tall 2. Full Page art: 4.125 inches wide x 7 inches tall 3. Resolution: 300dpi / line drawings will need at least 1200dpi 4. Color: CMYK, full color available 5. Bleeds: No bleeds 6. File Format: JPEG / PNG / InDesign / Photoshop | 1. 2,000 words or under 2. Blind submissions only (no author name, address, etc. on the document please) 3. Format your story in Times New Roman 12pt font, double-spaced |
| How to submit | 1. Email your artwork (in one of the above file formats) to berkeleyfictionreview@gmail.com 2. Your email must include “2026 October Contest Art Submission: Name, Title” in your email’s subject line | 1. Email a pdf of your story to berkeleyfictionreview@gmail.com 2. Your email must include “2026 October Contest Fiction Submission: Name, Title” in your email’s subject line |
| Review Process | 1. Our editors will judge all submissions 2. Contest winners will be announced in November 3. Selected stories may be featured in our upcoming issue in May | 1. Our editors will judge all submissions 2. Contest winners will be announced in November 3. Selected stories may be featured in our upcoming issue in May |
BFR has a zero tolerance policy for AI. Submissions of any form that use AI will automatically be rejected.