First 500: Key Dates and Final

First 500: Key Dates and Final

When are the key dates for the First 500 competition? 

The competition closes at midnight GMT on Sunday 30th November.

The finalists will be contacted on Tuesday 9th December and the live final will be held at 19:00 GMT on Thursday 18th December.

Will agents be in attendance?

Yes, two agents and two publishers will join the panel at the live final. Although they don't choose the winner (that's up to the audience) they will give feedback on each finalist's entry. It's a great chance to get your work heard by industry experts and hear their feedback. 

I am terrified of speaking on camera, help!

We'll invite you to a practise session before the live event so you can get familiar with the tech. However, if this still sounds scary, you can submit a pre-recorded video or a member of the Jericho Writers’ team can read your work on your behalf. 



    • Related Articles

    • First 500: Accessibility, Eligibility and Entry Requirements

      How do I enter the First 500 Novel Competition? The competition is free for Premium Members and otherwise has a £10 entry fee. Who is eligible to enter the First 500 Novel Competition? We encourage everyone to enter the competition, no matter your ...
    • First 500: My Entry and Judging

      How do I make my entry stand out? Premium Members can access our Opening Pages Resource Pack via the Jericho Writers Vault and we also have plenty of free articles available in our Blog. Also, watch the replay of last years final on the First 500 ...