Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Everett Holle?
Everett Holle was the visionary and namesake of the Holle Awards for Excellence in Creativity and Communication. Click here to learn more about him.
Does it cost anything to apply?
No, the 2025 application fee has been waived so there is no cost to apply.
How will submissions be judged?
Materials should be excellent in their category area, impactful in their storytelling, and in alignment with the mission of the Holle Awards and the vision of Everett Holle. Submissions will be judged anonymously by a panel of professionals with expertise in the affiliated field. Judgment criteria are dictated by the award category and finalists will be evaluated based on the quality of the submission. Incomplete applications will not be considered. All decisions are final and non-negotiable.
I worked collaboratively on a project. Can the award be split between two people?
No, these awards will only be given to applicants who submit their original, individual work. Submissions created with artificial intelligence (AI) are also ineligible.
How do I anonymize my submission?
You will need to remove all identifying information, including your name and any affiliations throughout your project including document properties.
Can I submit work I created or co-created with AI?
The use of AI is not allowed for any writing award (screenwriting, media writing, sports writing) and applications will be disqualified if AI or plagiarism is suspected. AI is discouraged for film submissions, but films that use artificial intelligence will still be considered as long as the use of AI is disclosed and explained in the application. All advanced entries will be checked with AI-Detection tools to ensure compliance. The Holle Awards are intended to reward originality, creativity, and ingenuity.
Can I submit a “work in progress” to get feedback from reviewers?
No, incomplete work will be automatically disqualified.
Can I resubmit my entry from the previous year if I did not win?
No, you cannot resubmit an entry from a previous Holle Award competition, regardless of the outcome. Even if the project has been significantly edited or revised, it will not be eligible for re-entry. You can, however, submit a new and different project.
Can I apply for a Holle Award if I won in a previous year?
Yes. Everett Holle wanted the awards to encourage continuous excellence and to therefore be available to the most excellent entry in each category with no restriction of prior award winners. Former awardees may apply for the same award they won, or for a different award, if they still meet the eligibility requirements. You cannot, however, resubmit an entry from a previous Holle Awards competition.
When is the application deadline?
The award application window opens on May 1. Each award will accept the first 50 submissions, and will close after meeting that quota, or on May 31st, whichever is first.
When will I be notified if I win?
Award notifications will be sent in Fall 2025. If your application is not selected, you will not be notified.
I graduate this spring, and applications are due in May—am I still eligible?
Yes, you can apply for this year’s awards if you were enrolled full-time during the Fall and/or Spring semester of the 2024-2025 academic year.
Can I apply for more than one award?
No, individuals can only apply for one award per year with a single entry. Submitting multiple applications in the same award cycle will disqualify all entries. Previous award winners can apply again in a subsequent year with a different project, as long as they still meet the eligibility criteria. Unsuccessful applicants can reapply at a later date, with a different project, as long as they still meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I submit my project if I had help from a professor?
Yes, as long as the work and project ideas are your own. We expect students to have support and/or guidance from professors in the development process. It is acceptable for a professor to help troubleshoot or provide feedback. It would not necessarily be acceptable if a professor provided content or edited your project. If you are uncertain, you can discuss this with the professor and describe their role in the application.