You've finished your story, chosen its language, and pressed Submit. What happens next?
Our publishing checks are designed to welcome stories in their original languages while keeping SSL a thoughtful place for readers and authors. Here's what to expect when you submit a public story written in a language other than English.
Your story is submitted, not necessarily published
Once you submit, SSL checks the story before making it public. If your submission is still under review, readers cannot discover it as a published story on SSL. Being under review does not mean your story has been rejected.
Depending on the results, qualifying stories can publish automatically. Other submissions may need an additional check by the SSL team. This is separate from the optional Featured Story review process.
Submitted
Your work has reached SSL and may be undergoing checks.
Under review
More assessment is needed before public publication.
Published
Your story is public and eligible for discovery by readers.
What does SSL check?
We look for meaningful, original storytelling that follows our Publishing Guidelines. Language mismatches, unclear or incomplete writing, spam, duplicated content, and other concerns may lead to a closer review.
We also understand that real writing can mix languages, scripts or expressions. The system's language suggestions are not perfect; authors remain responsible for selecting the language that best describes their work.
There is no need to learn an internal score or game a checklist. Write thoughtfully, keep your language selection accurate, and review the content before submitting.
How will I know the outcome?
Check the submission confirmation and the email address connected to your account. SSL uses email to communicate important publication decisions and requests for changes; you do not need to rely on a separate in-app rejection notification.
If your story is published, you can open and share its public link. If we request changes, follow the instructions in the email and return to My Stories to continue. If a decision is unclear, contact [email protected].
Is there a guaranteed review time?
No. A story may qualify for automatic publication, or it may need more attention. We won't promise a fixed publication time because the right next step depends on the submission.
This public-language review is different from paid or free Featured Story placements, which have their own selection and scheduling process.
One final reassurance
We want readers to discover your story in the language that makes it yours, without compromising on care for the writing or the community.