Every year, the Religion Newswriters Association (RNA) based at the University of Missouri administers the Chandler Award for students, which honors excellence in student writing with an emphasis on reporting skills and a grasp of religion issues that is fair, balanced and in accordance with journalistic standards. Russ Chandler, a former L.A. Times religion reporter, sponsors the award.
Both undergraduate and graduate students can enter either news or features stories dealing with religion, spirituality or ethics that have been published in print format (or its online adjunct) in a student or general circulation newspaper. Stories published through internships are also eligible. The deadline is May 3, and first prize is $600.
You will find requirements and other details on the entry form.