How do you become a candidate for the Pulitzer?

There's no application process to become a *candidate* for a Pulitzer Prize. Pulitzer Prizes are awarded to works already published or produced. You don't apply; your work is considered based on nominations and the committee's own research.

Here's how a work becomes eligible:

* Publication or Production: The work must be published or produced during the eligibility year (typically January 1st to December 31st). This means it's out in the public domain.

* Nomination: While not required for all categories, many categories accept nominations from various sources. These often include editors, publishers, authors themselves (in some categories), and other relevant individuals or organizations. The specific nomination process varies by category. Check the Pulitzer website for detailed rules.

* Committee Review: The Pulitzer Prize Board appoints juries of experts in each category. These juries review the nominated works and may also consider other works they deem worthy. They then forward their recommendations to the Pulitzer Prize Board.

* Board Selection: The Pulitzer Prize Board makes the final decision on the winners.

In short, you become a "candidate" (though the term isn't officially used) by having your eligible work receive attention from those who can nominate it, and ultimately through the thorough review process of the Pulitzer Prize Board and its juries. It's not something you actively *apply* for.