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How to Increase Your Chances of a USA Today Op Ed Submission Acceptance

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usa today op ed submission
usa today op ed submission

In the media landscape, few platforms carry the reach and prestige of USA Today. As one of the nation’s most widely read newspapers, USA Today provides a unique opportunity for individuals, experts, advocates, and organizations to share their views on the most pressing issues of our time. Crafting and successfully placing an op-ed in such a competitive publication, however, requires a strategic, informed approach. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the USA Today op ed submission process—from crafting a compelling pitch to understanding editorial expectations.

Why Choose USA Today for Your Op-Ed?

Before we delve into the details, it’s important to understand why submitting to USA Today matters. With a nationwide readership that spans political, economic, and social boundaries, USA Today reaches millions of readers daily. This includes decision-makers, influencers, and everyday citizens. A published op-ed can boost your visibility, enhance your credibility, and amplify your voice on national issues.

Whether you’re a corporate executive, nonprofit leader, professor, or public policy advocate, the USA Today op ed submission process offers a platform to engage in meaningful public discourse. The publication accepts a range of perspectives and encourages fresh, insightful commentary on current events.

Understanding the Basics of the USA Today Op Ed Submission

The op-ed (opposite the editorial page) is a written piece that presents a clear argument supported by facts, evidence, and expert insight. USA Today looks for opinion articles that are:

  • Timely and relevant to current news
  • Concise and engaging
  • Unique in perspective
  • Backed by credible sources

The typical word count for a USA Today op-ed is between 550 and 750 words. Longer pieces are rarely accepted unless they’re considered highly newsworthy or written by prominent figures.

Key Elements of a Successful USA Today Op Ed Submission

To improve your chances of getting published, your submission should include the following components:

1. A Clear and Compelling Thesis

Editors are looking for articles with a strong point of view. Avoid being vague or merely descriptive. Take a clear stance and argue your case with conviction.

2. Supporting Evidence

Use data, anecdotes, and expert sources to reinforce your argument. USA Today values fact-driven writing that demonstrates careful research and thoughtful reasoning.

3. Relevance and Timeliness

Your op-ed must address a current issue or trending topic. Timing plays a critical role in whether or not your submission will be accepted. If it’s not pegged to the news cycle, your chances of publication diminish significantly.

4. Author Credentials

USA Today prefers submissions from individuals with relevant experience or expertise. Always include a short author bio (1–2 sentences) at the end of your submission to establish credibility.

5. Engaging Tone

Even though you’re writing a professional piece, your tone should be conversational and accessible. Avoid heavy jargon or overly academic language.

How to Submit an Op-Ed to USA Today

The USA Today op ed submission process is relatively straightforward, but you need to follow their editorial guidelines precisely.

Submission Email

Send your op-ed in the body of an email—not as an attachment—to the following address:

[email protected]

Your subject line should clearly state the topic of your op-ed and that it’s a submission. For example:

Subject: Op-Ed Submission: The Economic Risks of Ignoring Climate Change

Include a Short Cover Note

In your email, write a brief cover note that introduces your piece and why it’s timely. Mention any relevant credentials or affiliations that reinforce your authority on the subject.

Author Bio and Contact Info

At the end of the article, include a one- to two-sentence bio and your preferred contact information. If your op-ed is accepted, the editors will follow up with any required edits or publication details.

Tips for Getting Your USA Today Op-Ed Accepted

Now that you know the mechanics of the USA Today op ed submission process, here are some insider tips to improve your chances of success.

1. Study Previously Published Op-Eds

Before writing your piece, take time to read op-eds that have been published recently in USA Today. This will help you get a sense of tone, structure, and preferred topics. Note how authors start strong, keep paragraphs short, and build persuasive arguments.

2. Pitch Newsworthy Angles

Editors want content that sparks discussion or contributes something new to the public conversation. Frame your argument around something that’s making headlines or stirring debate.

3. Keep It Short and Powerful

Your op-ed needs to make an impact fast. Get to your main argument within the first few sentences. Avoid burying your thesis in flowery language or a long-winded introduction.

4. Avoid Self-Promotion

An op-ed is not a press release. Editors are quick to reject submissions that feel like marketing pieces or brand promotions. Focus on delivering value to the reader, not promoting your business or services.

5. Be Open to Edits

If your op-ed is accepted, be prepared for the editing process. USA Today editors may trim or revise your piece to better fit their style and format. Collaborate respectfully to ensure your message remains intact while meeting editorial standards.

What Happens After You Submit?

USA Today receives hundreds of submissions each week, and not every one will receive a response. If your piece is selected, an editor will reach out within a few days. If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, it’s safe to assume your piece was not selected, and you’re free to pitch it elsewhere.

When and How to Follow Up

While it’s understandable to want feedback, refrain from sending multiple follow-ups. A polite nudge after seven to ten business days is acceptable. Keep your follow-up brief and professional, and avoid expressing frustration or demanding explanations.

Example:
Subject: Follow-Up on Op-Ed Submission: [Title]
Dear Editor,
I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to follow up on an op-ed I submitted last week titled “[Title]”. I understand you receive a high volume of submissions, but I’d appreciate any update you may have. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Best,
[Your Name]*

Alternatives if You’re Not Accepted

If your piece isn’t accepted by USA Today, don’t get discouraged. Many top-tier publications have similar guidelines and audiences. Consider adapting your article and submitting to:

  • The New York Times Opinion section
  • The Washington Post Op-Ed section
  • The Wall Street Journal Commentary page
  • CNN Opinion
  • Local or regional newspapers

You can also explore publishing on platforms like Medium, Substack, or your company blog to reach an engaged audience.

Why Partnering with a PR Platform Like IMCWire Helps

Navigating the USA Today op ed submission process is not easy. That’s where professional distribution and PR services like IMCWire come in. Our platform is designed to help experts and businesses craft and place thought leadership content in top-tier media outlets.

At IMCWire, we understand what editors are looking for. From message development and editing to outreach and submission, we guide you through every step. We also help amplify your published op-ed through targeted digital campaigns, ensuring your message reaches the right audience.

Final Thoughts

A successful USA Today op ed submission is about more than just writing well—it’s about timing, strategy, and knowing how to position your argument in a crowded field of voices. With a strong narrative, solid evidence, and a compelling message, your op-ed has the potential to drive meaningful change and reach millions of readers.

For professionals and organizations looking to elevate their public voice, getting published in USA Today can be a powerful tool. If you’re ready to share your message with the world, begin crafting your op-ed today—or partner with a team like IMCWire to take the guesswork out of the process.

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