Browse "Poets and Writers" magazine poetry contest list (see "Resources"). Each contest is outlined in a paragraph in the index, which also provides a hyperlink to the contest homepage.
Find competitions with length requirements that match your poems on hand. Try entering a book contest if you have around 50 or more pages of poetry, or a chapbook contest if you have around 25 to 30 pages. There are also contests available for single poems or small groups of poems.
Decide if you want to enter a contest that charges an entry fee. Contests are highly competitive and entry fees are nonrefundable if you don't win.
Research the poet's work who is judging the competition. Poets with similar styles, methods and interests to yours will be more familiar with your work and thus better able to judge it.
Arrange your manuscript as the contest requests. Some competitions ask that you mail up to three copies of your manuscript with cover sheets. Many contests require that your name only appear on the cover sheet and nowhere else.
Review each contest's website individually to ensure you meet every guideline set forth. One missed guideline could disqualify you from the competition.
Include a brief biography, around 75 to 125 words, only if the contest asks for it. Bios should give background on your life, education and previous publications.
Submit entries by the contest deadline. The "Poets and Writers" contest page lists all deadlines.