Submission Period
Submissions are open as of November 1, 2024. They will close when we reach our submissions cap. If you do not see the submissions opportunity on our Submittable page, it means that we have reached our cap.
Submission Guidelines
What kinds of stories is One Story looking for?
One Story is seeking literary fiction. Because of our format, we can only accept stories between 3,000 and 8,000 words. They can be any style and on any subject as long as they are good. We are looking for stories that leave readers feeling satisfied and are strong enough to stand alone.
Does One Story pay?
Yes. One Story pays $500 and 25 contributors copies for First Serial North American rights. All rights will revert to the author following publication.
Does One Story accept previously published material?
No. One Story is looking for previously unpublished material. However, if a story has been published in print outside of North America, it will be considered. Stories previously published online—on blogs, personal websites, online literary magazines, or forums—will not be accepted.
Does One Story accept simultaneous submissions?
Yes, but please withdraw your submission immediately if your submission is accepted for publication elsewhere.
What file types can I submit?
We accept DOC, DOCX, PDF, and RTF files. Please include the story title and all writer contact info on the first page of the submitted file.
Will you send me comments on my story?
No. One Story receives close to 5000 submissions each year. Please understand that we do not have time to comment on individual stories.
Can I change the story I submitted with an updated draft?
We strongly prefer that you only send us final drafts, but if you must upload a new version, please withdraw your submission through Submittable and resubmit.
Can I send a revision of a story that was previously rejected?
No. Please send us new work. Revisions of previously rejected stories will not be considered and will be automatically declined.
Do you consider translations?
Yes. Please include the name of the original author and language, as well as the name of the translator on the first page of your submission.
How do I submit to One Story?
As of Fall 2021, all submissions should be submitted via Submittable.
Do you accept emailed or paper submissions?
Emailed submissions will be deleted unread. We only consider paper submissions from incarcerated individuals. All other submitters must use Submittable to send us their work. Paper submissions will not be considered and will not be returned to the author.
Incarcerated individuals can mail their submissions to:
One Story
232 Third St., A108
Brooklyn, NY 11215
When can I submit to One Story?
One Story’s next submission period will open on November 1, 2024 and close when we reach our submissions cap. If you don’t see a magazine submission opportunity on our Submittable page, it means we have reached our cap and submissions are now closed.
How soon can I expect to hear about my submission?
We do our very best to respond to submissions within 3 months after they are received. If you don’t hear back from us within that time, please be patient! It is our goal to make sure that each submission gets a good read.
I don’t live in the United States. Can I still submit to One Story?
Yes, One Story considers international submissions.
Can I check the status of my submission?
Yes. To check the status of your submission, please log in to your Submittable account.
Can I submit the same story to One Story and One Teen Story?
No. One Teen Story only publishes work by writers age 13-19, and One Story and One Teen Story are looking for different kinds of stories. For more information on submitting to One Teen Story, go here.
Can I still access submissions sent in through your old system, Submission Manager?
Yes. You can access your Submission Manager submissions at any time.
More Questions?
If you have any other questions, please email us at submissions@one-story.com.
