SUBMISSIONS OPEN FEB 1–FEB 28

The Berkeley Fiction Review is pleased to open submissions to the 2026 Sudden Fiction Contest!

In order to be considered, your submission must meet all listed criteria.

Eligibility

1. Only original and previously unpublished work
2. Each submission must be accompanied with a $5 ticket purchase through this link. If you’re unable to purchase this ticket, please email us about a fee waiver.
3. Multiple submissions are encouraged, but a ticket must be purchased for each story

Submission rules

1. 1,000 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 a pdf of your story to berkeleyfictionreview@gmail.com
2. Your email must include a proof of Eventbrite ticket purchase (screenshotted receipt)
3. Your email must include “Sudden Fiction Contest Submission: Name, Title” in your email’s subject line

Review Process 

1. Our selected panel will judge all submissions
2. Contest winners will be announced in March
3. Selected artwork will be featured in our upcoming issue in May

PRIZE

1. $100 for first place, $50 for second place, $25 for third place
2. All contest winners will have their work featured in Issue 46, and receive a complimentary copy of the issue

Past Judges