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General submissions are paused for summer
Litro has received more than 2,800 submissions this year. We’re pausing briefly to read the current queue properly before reopening in September.
General submissions reopen in September 2026.
Read submission guidelinesEditorial feedback
Want an editorial read before you submit?
FastTrack remains open for writers who want an outside read on short fiction, essays or poetry before their next submission.
For work up to 4,000 words, you’ll receive a focused editorial report within 10 business days covering what’s working, what may be holding the piece back, and what to revise next.
FastTrack is separate from Litro’s publication decisions.
View FastTrackSeptember reopening
Submission guidelines
Before submitting, spend some time with recent Litro work. We look for distinct voice, pressure, movement and writing that stays with the reader.
Categories & word counts
- Fiction: around 3,000 words. Exceptional work may be considered up to 5,000.
- Essays / non-fiction: up to 2,000 words.
- Flash: up to 1,000 words.
- Poetry: up to 3 poems, around 40 lines each.
Simultaneous submissions are welcome. If your work is accepted elsewhere, withdraw it from Litro promptly.
Art & photography
Submit photography, illustration or visual art as a focused mini-series or one strong standalone image.
- Up to 4 JPEGs.
- Maximum 5MB each.
- Include title, name, captions or credits, and a short artist statement where relevant.
Litro Lab / audio
Litro Lab considers short audio-led storytelling.
- Ideally 3–8 minutes, maximum 10.
- MP3 preferred.
- Include a written version of the piece.
Requirements
Work must be your own and not previously published in print or online. We consider original translations where the necessary rights are held.
- Submit one piece per theme.
- You may submit to different themes at the same time.
- Withdraw your piece if it is accepted elsewhere.
Formatting
Upload .doc, .docx or .pdf. Put the title and word count on page one. Use a clean filename such as
Surname_Title_Category.
Rights & contributor terms
If accepted, publication is subject to Litro’s contributor terms.
Response times
General submissions reopen in September 2026. Response times vary by category and volume. Updated estimates will be published when submissions reopen.
Frequently asked questions
Can I submit while general submissions are paused?
No. General submissions reopen in September.
Can I use FastTrack during the pause?
Yes. FastTrack remains open for editorial feedback.
Does FastTrack improve my chance of publication?
No. FastTrack is separate from Litro’s publication decisions.
Writer development
Looking for structured writing support?
Litro also runs writing courses and masterclasses for writers developing work over a longer period. View Litro Masterclasses.
