Penguin Cover Design Award

All aspiring designers and illustrators in the UK and Ireland are invited to enter the Penguin Cover Design Award, regardless of higher education status.

Penguin is looking for UK and Ireland-based designers and illustrators who haven’t yet had significant experience in a paid creative role – that includes anyone aged 18 or over who is yet to break into the creative industry, students from all subjects, and recent graduates.

All entries must be submitted digitally via their submissions form, which will be open for entries from Wednesday, 1 December 2021 until Tuesday, 1 March 2022 at 14.00 (GMT).

The three winners will be offered a six-month mentorship with a designer at Penguin Random House, plus a design kit package and inspiration tools worth £1,000.

The runners-up will receive design kit packages worth £500, and £350.

Important dates

Opening date for entries – Wednesday, 1 December 2021

Closing date for entries – 14.00 (GMT) on Tuesday, 1 March 2022

Shortlist announcement – Thursday, 28 April 2022

Closing date for shortlisted student’s final submissions – Thursday, 12 May 2022

Winners announced – June 2022

Find out more about the contest here.