Critique & Contest is the national communications and journalism competition for ACT members. This contest allows students the opportunity to have their work analyzed by professionals and judged against members across the nation. Categories include writing, publication, electronic media, photography, design & layout, and public relations. 

The entry fee is $3 per individual entry. Magazine entries are $10 USD per entry. The National ACT organization will invoice each chapter for the number of judged entries.  If you are not a dues-paid member at the time of submission, we will invoice your chapter an additional $25 to cover the cost of your membership.

All entry fees and/or dues must be received by the National ACT Executive Treasurer by June 30, 2027, for an entry to remain eligible. If payment is not received, the entry will be disqualified.

View the 2026-2027 Critique and Contest rules here.

The 2026-2027 contest will open for entries on November 1, 2026 and close May 15, 2027 at 11:59 p.m., C.S.T.  Please follow us on social media for updates.