The NPR College Podcast Challenge is back with a $5,000 cash prize. And the opportunity to have your voice, your story, reach the NPR audience and beyond. The annual NPR College Podcast Challenge will accept entries by January 16, 2026 (Professor and school involvement is not required for the college challenge).
So, if you have a passion project or a story you want to get off your chest, here’s your chance to make it happen. Whether you’re a seasoned student journalist working on a thesis project, or a math or science major recording your first podcast in your dorm room — NPR wants to hear from you.
For the first time ever this year, the contest is accepting under12 minutes. So college students – here’s your chance to win $5,000 and have your story heard on NPR.
Getting started? Check out these resources:
Listen to past winning entries
• NPR 2023 10 Best Finalists of the College Podcast Challenge
• 2023 Grand Winner of NPR College Podcast Challenge: College student explores rare mental health condition in award-winning podcast
