The Mary Shelley Scholarship for Women Horror Writers
The Mary Shelley Scholarship: An Opportunity for Women Horror Writers
The Mary Shelley Scholarship, named after the literary pioneer who gave the world Frankenstein, is open for submissions—and it’s one of the most significant recognitions of women horror writers working today.
The Horror Writers Association (HWA) awards this $2,500 scholarship to support the professional development of women horror writers. The same application process also opens the door to the Horror Writers Association Scholarship, available to writers of any gender.
→ Click here to apply for the 2025 Shelley and HWA Scholarship
Why These Scholarships Matter
HWA President Rocky Wood once described the need for this scholarship in clear terms: “There are unseen, but real, barriers limiting the amount of horror fiction being published by women.” This award is a concrete step toward breaking those barriers—by equipping recipients with resources, training, and access to elevate their craft.
→ Learn how to shape your own narrative arc
Details of the Mary Shelley Scholarship
- Award Amount: $2,500
- Application Deadline: Varies by year — check horrorscholarships.com for updates
- Eligibility:
- Open to horror writers of any experience level
- Shelley Scholarship: Open to writers who identify as women
- HWA Scholarship: Open to writers of any gender
- They do not require HWA membership.
Application Requirements for the Mary Shelley Scholarship
Applicants must submit:
- An application form (available through Submittable)
- A writing sample (up to 3,000 words)
- A clearly outlined Education Plan showing how funds will be used
- A brief statement explaining financial need
- Optional résumé or publishing history
The selection committee will evaluate each application based on:
- The strength and clarity of the Education Plan
- The quality and promise of the writing sample
- Career stage and potential for growth
- Dedication to the horror genre
- Financial need
- Likelihood of contributing meaningfully to the horror community
Need help getting started? These free resources might help you sharpen your submission:
What the Scholarship Covers
Funds may be used over two calendar years for eligible expenses including:
- Course fees (online or physical) from recognized educators
- Writing guides, craft books, and educational subscriptions
- Registration fees for one horror convention and one writing festival per year
- Software required for course participation (up to $250)
- Membership in non-genre writers’ associations (up to $100)
Note: This does not cover expenses such as travel, accommodation, meals, hardware, or HWA membership.
You can find the complete guidelines and application process at horrorscholarships.com.
Apply today
