Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you submit more than one poem?
Yes, multiple submissions are allowed, and encouraged. A single poem may not have much of a chance as multiple submissions. However, every submission is considered as an individual poem, so all submitted poems (be it from the same person or from different people) have equal chances of getting through the selection process.
Can you win more than one prize in The Stellar Prize?
You can only win one prize in the Stellar Prize. If a contestant happens to have more than one good poems that are selected by the judges, one poem is considered for the Stellar Prize whereas the others are considered for The Stellar Youth Award(SYA).
Can you compete again after winning the SYA Award?
Can you compete again after winning the SYA Award?
No, you may not compete again after winning the SYA Award; however, you may still compete for the SYA if you win any of the other categories of The Stellar Prize.
Can you nominate a poem to be considered for The Stellar Prize?
Can you nominate a poem to be considered for The Stellar Prize?
Yes, you can.
Are submission fees refundable?
No, submission fees are nonrefundable, unless for reasons that necessitate a refund. This would be decided only by The Stellar Prize Team, and all decisions are final.
Why are there submission fees?
Submission fees are used to pay the judges, other contractors, etc. They are also used to cover arrangements made in preparation for the award.
Do submission fees differ between The Junior Stellar Prize and other categories?
No, they do not. The same fees apply.
Can I withdraw my application or nomination for The Stellar Prize?
If you wish to withdraw your application or nomination, kindly email
stellarprize@iezef.org. However, submission fees may not be refunded.
Can I mail my submission fee?
No, all entries must be done online. Please visit
Submission for more information.
How do I know when I have been selected for The Stellar Prize?
You would be contacted by email or phone. In addition to this, names of Stellar Prize winners would be released on press.
When do you get the prize money if you win?
All prizes are presented at the award ceremony.
What if you are unable to make it to the award ceremony?
This is fine. However, IEZEF may require submission of particular documents to confirm identity before sending prizes.
Are there required qualifications for applying?
No, anyone can apply, insofar you adhere to the age criteria.
How frequent is this award?
We aim to present The Stellar Prize yearly.
Do award winners get compensation to attend the award ceremony?
Yes, prize winners from all across Africa will have their all flight expenses, hotel lodging, and feeding catered for by IEZEF. International prize winners from outside Africa would have all hotel lodging and feeding catered for, but would as well receive vouchers or significant discounts for flight expenses.
What kinds of prizes are awarded?
Winners are awarded certificates, and the prize money. Winners of the SYA and The Stellar Teacher Award are awarded trophies and plaques respectively.
How can I make a donation?
To make a donation, please visit the official website of The Stellar Community at
www.thestellarcommunity.iezef.org.
Can you appeal a decision?
The Stellar Prize Team reserves the right to render any decision final.
Can you apply for The Stellar International Award if you are African?
Only if you currently reside outside Africa, and hold a citizenship in another nonAfrican country. In that case however, you would be ineligible for The Junior Stellar Prize and The Stellar African Prize but may apply for The Stellar International Award. If you own an African passport, and would be in Africa during the period of the award ceremony. You may apply for the African category of The Stellar Prize, but would be ineligible for The Stellar International Award.
Who can apply for The Stellar African Prize and The Junior Stellar Prize?
Only Africans who currently reside in Africa and own a passport from an African country, or would reside in Africa during the period of the award ceremony. But you have to be 18 by February 18, 2019
Would I be disqualified if I am over the age range by February 18, 2019?
Yes, only people who would be between the age ranges for the different categories, by the third bid deadline, are qualified to compete.
Can applicants submit via email?
No, all applications are done through the official website. However, if you experience troubles submitting your entry through our official website, you may contact stellarprize@iezef.org.
No, all applications are done through the official website. However, if you experience troubles submitting your entry through our official website, you may contact stellarprize@iezef.org.
Are incomplete applications considered?
No, incomplete applications are automatically disqualified.