40 best screenwriting contests and fellowships to enter in 2024.
Screenwriting contests and fellowships can be something of a confusing minefield for writers. Practically all of them claim to offer “industry access,” “life-changing careers,” etc. but do they really? Are they worth the money? Are they even legit?
But let’s say you want to enter one, how do you know which are the very best screenwriting competitions and fellowships to spend your cash on? Should you go for the big players like the Nicholl, or smaller less well-known fare?
Below you’ll find the ultimate, no b.s. list of the best screenplay contests and best screenwriting fellowships to enter in 2024—only those that deliver what they promise: real industry access.
Before we get to the list—why not download our Screenwriting Calendar to keep track of all of the best screenwriting contests and fellowships out there.
How to use this best screenwriting fellowships and contests list.
Rather than spending a small fortune on blasting your screenplay off to dozens of script competitions, do some research first and be super-selective on which ones you enter.
Let’s say you’ve written a slasher horror spec. Chances are, no matter how good the script, it’s unlikely to place highly in the Nicholl Fellowship, so entering would more than likely be a waste of time and money.
On the other hand, your first port of call should be competitions that have had a certain amount of horror screenplay winners, or have a specific horror category, such as ScreenCraft or Slamdance.
Find out how often your screenplay’s genre has actually done well in a particular screenplay competition and you’ll be giving yourself at a far higher chance of success.
So, without further ado, let’s get to the list. It’s ranked from #1 to #40 according to kudos and effectiveness at kickstarting writing careers, with #1 being the best.
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#1. Academy Nicholl Fellowship.
Overview. Without doubt, the Nicholls Fellowship is the most prestigious and highly coveted screenplay award out there. Winners of this are pretty much guaranteed a major helping hand into the industry. Conversely, it’s also one of the toughest to do well in. Also, as hinted at by its Oscar association, it does favor drama and more “high-brow” content over anything else.
Prizes/opportunities. Up to five $35,000 fellowships are awarded each year to promising new screenwriters.
Judges. They’re a mix of industry professionals who are and aren’t members of the Academy and the Academy Nicholl Committee, depending on which round you reach.
What can I submit? Feature script.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED] Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
Academy Nicholl Fellowship is one of the best screenwriting contests for… kick-starting drama writers’ careers. Win this and prepare for your phone to melt from all the industry heat.
Check out the Academy Nicholl Fellowship >>
#2. ScreenCraft Writing Competitions.
Prizes/opportunities. Each ScreenCraft genre-specific script contest is unique, but all of them feature cash prizes and career-launching introductions to entertainment industry professionals including managers, agents, studio executives and award-winning filmmakers and TV showrunners.
Judges. First-rate film and television producers, writers, creative execs such as Meg LeFauve (Captain Marvel), Stephany Folsom (Toy Story 4), and Damon Lindelof (Watchmen).
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short, animation, pitch, novel, short story, stage play.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Final – June 30, 2024
Rotates throughout the year, so sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
ScreenCraft Screenplay Competitions are some of the best for… launching careers of emerging screenwriters. Other contests further down this list may be “bigger” but you stand more chance of success with ScreenCraft and past winners have gone on to sign with agents at CAA, WME, UTA, etc. and write for Netflix, Blumhouse, CBS, etc.
Check out Screencraft’s Screenplay Contests >>
#3. Austin Film Festival Screenplay Contest.
Overview. The AFF has been running for around 30 years, which makes it one of the longest-standing and most highly respected contests out there.
Prizes/opportunities. Grand prize winner receives $5000 among various other awards and festival perks.
Judges. Judges are professional screenwriters, executive producers, show runners.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short, scripted digital series, stage play, 90-second pitch, fiction podcast.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Early – March 22, 2024
Regular – April 19, 2024
Late – May 24, 2024
AFF is one of the best screenwriting contests for… gaining representation from an agent or manager.
Check out the Austin Film Festival contest >>
#4. Universal Writers Programs.
Overview. In 2017 Universal set up not one, but three programs for aspiring screenwriters: a Writers Lab for experienced and up-and-coming writers, Animation Program for animated film and TV writers, and Global Program for UK writers.
Prizes/opportunities. Each program is a one-year, full-time gig in which you’ll be paid $75,000 to develop your work with execs and producers and hopefully go on to work for Universal Filmed Entertainment Group (UFEG).
Judges. UFEG and Working Title execs, producers, and “professional evaluators.”
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED] Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
Universal Programs are some of the best screenwriting contests for… a high chance of getting hired by a major studio at the end of the lab.
Check out the Universal Programs >>
#5. Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest.
Overview. This is an annual, international feature and television screenwriting contest designed to launch the careers of aspiring writers, hosted by Final Draft.
Prizes/opportunities.The Big Break script writing contest rewards winners with $10,000 in cash and other prizes, including a trip to Los Angeles and meetings with A-list managers, producers and execs.
Judges. Execs and producers such as Jeff Portnoy (Bellevue Productions), Gary King (Paramount), and Lauren Deitch (Netflix).
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Final – June 10, 2024
Extended – June 28
Big Break is one of the best screenwriting contests for… getting screenplays optioned, produced and securing high-profile representation.
Check out the Big Break Screenwriting Contest >>
#6. PAGE International Screenwriting Awards.
Prizes/opportunities. A whopping $25,000 goes to the Grand Prize winner, but it’s not about the money, right? It’s about the opportunities that come with being a finalist—securing representation, landing writing assignments, getting staffed on TV shows, etc.
Judges. Each year dozens of top producers, agents, and development execs judge the contest and read the winning screenplays.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, for an extra fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Regular – February 15, 2024
Late – March 15, 2024
Last minute – April 15, 2024
The PAGE Awards are one of the best screenwriting contests for… having co-sponsors like InkTip, TV Writers Vault, and Roadmap Writers actively promote your winning script, giving you a shot at the ultimate prize: the chance to get a screenplay produced.
Check out the PAGE International Screenplay Awards >>
#7. American Zoetrope Screenplay Competition.
Overview. Francis Ford Coppola’s motion picture production company, Zoetrope, runs a highly-respected annual screenplay competition (American Zoetrope Screenplay Competition) and short fiction contest (All-Story Short Stories Competition).
Prizes/opportunities. Winners receive a cash prize, plus outstanding Hollywood industry exposure. Indeed, the mission of the company is to “find and promote new and innovative voices in cinema.”
Judges. Professional readers review each entry, and Mr. Coppola himself helps select a winner from ten finalists.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short story, one-act play.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. TBA for 2024. Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
American Zoetrope is one of the best screenplay competitions for… having your script read by top production companies and talent agencies, as all ten finalists have their scripts forwarded by Zoetrope.
Check out the American Zoetrope screenplay contest >>
#8. ISA Fast Track Fellowship.
Overview. The ISA Fast Track Fellowship is one of the leading screenwriting fellowships in the world. Past fellows have signed with management companies, had their scripts optioned and signed with major agencies like ICM, Paradigm and CAA.
Prizes/opportunities. Two winners meet with eight industry players and are receive a one-year placement onto the ISA Development Slate in which ISA execs champion their projects to their industry partners.
Judges. ISA mentors have included writers, directors, producers and execs from The Marksman, Ted Lasso, Whiplash, etc.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Final – February 15, 2024
The ISA Fellowship is one of the best screenwriting competitions for… networking with industry pros and getting the opportunity to pitch them projects.
Check out The ISA Fast Track Fellowship >>
#9. Trackingb Screenwriting Contest.
Overview. Trackingb is a little different from your average screenplay contest in that they don’t offer a cash prize. As they say on their site, “We don’t offer any of the usual screenplay contest smoke and mirrors… What our winners do receive is: INDUSTRY ACCESS AND INDUSTRY READS.”
Prizes/opportunities. Three winners each receive promotion to the Trackingb community of industry insiders, as well as a read by their judging panel who will pick an overall winner. Five honorable mentions will also be selected to receive exposure on Trackingb.
Judges. VPs, literary managers, creative execs galore.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Early – June 30, 2024
Late – August 19, 2024
Really late – October 1, 2024
Trackingb is one of the best screenwriting contests for… a no bs approach to getting repped. It simply does what it says it does—gives writers the inside track to a career in screenwriting.
Check out the Trackingb Screenplay Competition >>
#10. Scriptapalooza Script Writing Competition.
Overview. Past winners have won Emmys, been signed by agents, managers, had their scripts optioned and made into movies.
Prizes/opportunities. Grand prize winner receives $10,000, plus Scriptapalooza gives the semifinalists and higher access to over 150 producers, managers and agents that are actively looking for material for an entire year.
Judges. According to the site, “Every script that is entered into Scriptapalooza is read by either a producer, manager or agent. We do not use ‘readers’ or ‘regular people’ because they cannot do anything with your script. We go right to the source—a producer, manager or agent, they can make a difference, they can option your script, buy it, set-up a meeting or go straight to the studio with it.”
What can I submit? Feature script, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, for an extra fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Late – February 5, 2024
Final – March 4, 2024
Last minute – April 8, 2024
Scriptapalooza is one of the best screenwriting contests for… promoting, pitching, and pushing semifinalists and higher for a full year.
Check out the Scriptapalooza Script Writing Competition >>
#11. Slamdance Screenplay Competition.
Overview. Now over two decades old, Slamdance has a history of highlighting talented, independent screenwriters and introducing them to the entertainment industry. On the site they say they’re looking for ”scripts that take risks, refuse compromise, and go places where Hollywood hacks fear to tread.”
Prizes/opportunities. Grand prize winner receives $10,000, festival passes for Slamdance Film Festival, Slamdance Screenplay Mentorship Award, and more.
Judges. Key figures from the world of independent film, such as filmmakers, producers, actors, directors, etc.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, but just a paragraph. More in-depth coverage is available for an additional fee.
Submission deadlines.
Early – April 4, 2024
Regular – June 6, 2024
Late – July 18, 2024
Final – July 24, 2024
Slamdance is one of the best screenwriting contests for… horror/thriller writers as the contest prioritizes these genres for consideration.
Check out the Slamdance Screenplay Contest >>
#12. Script Pipeline Screenwriting and TV Writing Competition.
Overview. Script Pipeline claims to have helped create over $8 million in screenplay and TV pilot spec sales since its birth in 1999, and they currently offer a Feature Screenplay Contest, TV Writing Contest and Pitch Contest.
Prizes/opportunities. Grand prize winner receives $20,000, personal introductions to managers, producers, agents, directors searching for new projects and writers. Plus, long-term script circulation and consultations with Script Pipeline’s development team.
Judges. All judges are made up of Script Pipeline development execs and senior-level staff.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, pitch.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Early – March 1, 2024
Regular – May 1, 2024
Script Pipeline is one of the best screenwriting contests for… exposure to approximately 200 qualified industry contacts and long-term script development.
Check out the Script Pipeline Competition >>
#13. Launch Pad Screenwriting Competition.
Overview. The website boasts that “The Launch Pad Competitions have led to more signings, success stories, and careers than any other screenwriting competition.”
Prizes/opportunities. At least one writer’s script will be selected for development, and at least one writer will be selected for representation and entry to the Launch Pad Mentorship Program. The top 10 writers are invited to meet with and pitch industry professionals from companies such as Lit Entertainment, MGM, Scott Free, etc.
Judges. Amanda Marshall (independent producer), Chris Tsui (development exec), Jasper Grey (manager and producer) and more.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, novel.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Regular – June 20, 2024
Late – July 20, 2024
Final – August 20, 2024
Launch Pad is one of the best screenplay competitions for… those looking for a real chance to have their work shared with industry pros. While many contests on this list advocate just their finalists, Launch Pad champions their top 100 writers—helping them connect with industry professionals.
Check out Launchpad Screenwriting Competition >>
#14. BlueCat Screenplay Competition.
Overview. BlueCat is a very well-respected screenplay competition that has a great track record of helping new writers get their careers started.
Prizes/opportunities. Cash prizes range from $2,000 to $7,500.
Judges. We couldn’t find any info on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
>Will I get notes? Yes, every script entered receives a one-page written analysis.
Submission deadlines.
Final – June 25, 2024
BlueCat is one of the top screenwriting contests for… large cash prizes, plus winners and finalists signing with agencies like CAA and UTA.
Check out the BlueCat screenplay competition >>
#15. CineStory Fellowship Contest.
Overview. CineStory runs a paid Feature Retreat and a TV Retreat for screenwriters and TV writers. In order to be eligible you must be a winner or finalist in the Fellowship Contest.
Prizes/opportunities. Just one feature writer and one TV writer will receive $7,000 – 10,000, an all-expenses paid spot at the Feature or TV Retreat, and a 12-month mentorship with two professional screenwriters.
Judges. We couldn’t find any info on the site other than “working Hollywood professionals. Each retreat brings a mix of executives, pro writers, directors, agents, managers and producers together.”
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Early – February 19, 2024
Regular – March 24, 2024
Late – April 21, 2024
Extended – May 19, 2024
CineStory is one of the best screenwriting contests for… getting scripts requests from the likes of Paradigm, The Lisa Callamaro Agency, Energy Entertainment etc.
Check out the CineStory Fellowship >>
#16. Creative World Awards Screenwriting Contest.
Overview. CWA is an international screenwriting contest that’s built relationships with some of the industry’s most recognized companies—all of whom are looking for fresh material.
Prizes/opportunities. The Grand Prize winner receives $3,000 plus the opportunity to have their script produced as a short film.
Judges. We couldn’t find any info on the site other than “industry professionals.”
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, for an additional fee.
Submission deadlines.
Dates TBA.
CWA is one of the best screenwriting contests for… working with winning writers and championing their scripts by passing them along to production companies.
Check out the CWA screenwriting contest >>
#17. The Black List Annual Lab.
Overview. The Black List has grown exponentially since its inception as an insider Hollywood list, to an all-encompassing platform where new writers go to get discovered.
Prizes/opportunities. The Annual Lab gives twelve aspiring screenwriters the chance to join an intensive week-long workshop with professional writers to develop their scripts. Six are chosen for the Projects Lab (indie filmmaker focused) and six for the Writers Lab (studio spec focused).
Judges. We couldn’t find any info on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Final – July 1, 2024
The Black List Lab is one of the best screenwriting contests for… developing a feature film script during an intensive period with the help of industry pros.
Check out the Black List Annual Lab >>
#18. Shore Scripts Screenplay Contests.
Overview. Shore Scripts aim is to discover and develop new writing talent through their script development fund, short film fund and script contests.
Prizes/opportunities. $5,000 – $500 in prize money, mentorships, general meetings, call with writer development team, etc.
Judges. The Shore Scripts roster of judges includes a best-selling author, independent producer, actress, executive producer and more.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Early – June 24, 2024
Regular – July 31, 2024
Final – August 30, 2024
Shore Scripts contests are some of the best for… helping aspiring writers become working writers. Many entrants go on to gain representation and write for Netflix, Paramount, Blumhouse, Hulu, etc.
Check out the Shore Scripts Screenplay Contests >>
#19. Table Read My Screenplay Screenplay Competition.
Overview. As we’ve said before a table read is one of the best ways to gain insight into your script and know exactly how to improve it. This is how professional writers tighten their stories, so why shouldn’t you? This contest will give you the chance to do just that.
Prizes/opportunities. Grand Prize winner receives $1,000 cash prize, table read with an experienced director and actors in front of a live audience online, consideration for development through ISA’s Development Team and more.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Regular – February 22, 2024
Final – March 28, 2024
Table Read My Screenplay is one of the best screenwriting contests for… having a professional table read of your script. The experience will be invaluable.
Check out the Table Read My Screenplay Competition >>
#20. The Script Lab Screenplay Contest.
Overview. Past winners have signed with Hollywood managers and optioned scripts to producers. The unique thing about this contest, though, is that it’s one of the only free screenplay contests out there.
Prizes/opportunities. Three winners receive $50 – $500, distribution to their network of nearly one thousand industry professionals, career consultation session with Coverfly, and other perks.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, for a fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Regular – January 31, 2024
Script Lab is one of the best screenplay competitions for… free entry! There aren’t many free screenwriting contests and this is the only one of any repute.
Check out the Script Lab Screenplay Contest >>
#21. Save the Cat! Screenplay Challenge.
Overview. Their premise is simple: “A screenplay competition that uses the same language the writer, the reader and the decision makers use.” The contest’s USP is that every entry receives written feedback “grounded in story structure, not subjective opinion.”
Prizes/opportunities. An all-expenses paid trip to LA, live table read, meetings with judges, one year Save the Cat! software subscription.
Judges. Film and television producers, writers, creative execs, managers.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? Yes, included with every submission.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Regular – February 4, 2024
Late – March 3, 2024
Extended – April 14, 2024
Save the Cat! is one of the best screenwriting competitions for… a low-risk entry fee, seeing as you get a set of structure-focused notes included from a Save the Cat! reader.
Check out Save the Cat! Screenplay Challenge >>
#22. The Golden Script Competition.
Overview. The Golden Script Competition is a yearly international competition that MovieBytes called one of the best screenwriting contests in 2023 and 2024.
Prizes/opportunities. Get mentored by the producer of Black Swan and have your script read by 60+ Oscar and BAFTA nominated agencies and production companies.
Judges. Professional writers and producers, mainly from Europe.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Final – March 21, 2024
The Golden Script is one of the best screenwriting contests for… getting promoted on the “Golden List”— a list of the best unproduced scripts that they circulate to producers and directors.
Check out The Golden Script Competition >>
#23. Nantucket Film Festival.
Overview. The NFF has to be one of the world’s finest locations for a film/screenwriting festival, on the beautiful island of Nantucket in Massachusetts. The festival is also host to the Tony Cox Screenwriting Competition.
Prizes/opportunities. Cash prizes, an all expenses paid month-long stay at the exclusive Almanack Screenwriters’ colony on Nantucket, participation in a Mentor’s Brunch with screenwriters such as Noah Baumbach, Nancy Meyers and Robert Towne.
Judges. Past screenplay jurors include Bobby and Peter Farrelly, Lili Taylor, Tom McCarthy and Stanley Tucci.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, for an extra fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Final – February 15, 2024
Extended – March 7, 2024
Nantucket Film Festival is one of the best scriptwriting contests for… furthering your screenwriting career while also having a break from the daily grind by escaping to a beautiful island.
Check out the Nantucket Film Festival >>
#24. Roadmap Writers Top Tier Competition.
Overview. Despite only being around for six years, Roadmap Writers has helped over 300 writers gain representation by partnering with top tier industry professionals. It’s a little unclear on the site what the difference is between the “Jumpstart” contest and the “Top Tier” one, other than only the latter is currently open for submissions.
Prizes/opportunities. Winners receive general meetings with film and TV execs (virtual), career advice, pitch prep sessions, Roadmap endorsed personalized marketing queries and more.
Judges. Working industry professionals, including execs and reps.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes, for an extra fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Early – January 26, 2024
Regular – February 23, 2024
Late – March 29, 2024
Roadmap Writers Top Tier is one of the best screenwriting contests for… writers who want industry exposure without having to win! Roadmap markets high-scoring scripts no matter where they place.
#25. Raindance Film Festival Script Competition.
Overview. A well-known UK-based film festival with a screenwriting contest attached.
Prizes/opportunities. The contest winner from each category receives a place on the 10-week Raindance Script Fellowship Program, in which they’ll be able to develop their craft with a Raindance Film School tutor. All finalists are considered for a production proposal from Raindance Raw Talent.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Late – February 5, 2024
Extended – March 4, 2024
Raindance is one of the best screenplay contests for… British writers based in or near London looking to follow in the footsteps of Christopher Nolan, Guy Ritchie, Andrea Arnold, Sacha Baron Cohen, etc. all of whom attended Raindance.
Check out Raindance Film Festival Screenwriting Competition >>
#26. Finish Line Script Competition.
Prizes/opportunities. Grand prize winner receives $10,000 in cash and other prizes, including meetings with industry players and a filmed table read.
Judges. On the site it says, “40+ high-level, well-connected international mentors in film & television.”
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? Yes, for an extra fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Early – January 31, 2024
Regular – March 4, 2024
Late – May 15, 2024
Finish Line is one of the best screenwriting contests for… being writer-friendly with their free resubmission process—increasing your chances of winning along the way.
Check out the Finish Line Script Competition >>
#27. Scriptation Showcase Script Competition.
Overview. Scriptation is an Emmy®-winning app used on film and TV productions, and their screenwriting contest directly connects emerging writers with industry talent.
Prizes/opportunities. Cash prize of $1,000, one-year Scriptation Showcase and Industry Pro Access, virtual meeting with professional film and TV writers, one-on-one meeting with exec.
Judges. All entries are read by script readers and all finalists are read by industry professionals, including managers, execs and writers.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short.
Will I get notes? Yes.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Regular – February 11, 2024
Final – March 10, 2024
Scriptation is one of the best screenwriting contests for… making new writers’ work accessible to the industry, plus providing annotated feedback on each entry “so you can see what the reader was thinking when they were thinking it.”
Check out the Scriptation Showcase Script Competition >>
#28. ATX TV Festival Pitch Competition.
Overview. Pitch your television show idea to industry professionals online for the contest, and/or enter the Live Pitch Competition at this year’s ATX TV Festival in Austin, Texas.
Prizes/opportunities. Receive mentoring from industry professionals on your pitch and how to navigate a writers’ room and take meetings.
Judges. TV writers, executives, and showrunners.
What can I submit? A pitch for an original TV show.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Late – January 19, 2024
ATX is one of the best screenwriting contests for… TV writers looking to develop an original show.
Check out the ATX TV Festival Pitch Competition >>
#29. Sundance Screenwriters Lab.
Overview. The Screenwriters Lab gives eight new screenwriters the opportunity to rehearse, shoot and edit key scenes from their scripts with creative advisors and a production crew. This is done via the month-long Lab and the best films have a chance to be screened at the Sundance Film Festival.
Prizes/opportunities. The Screenwriting Lab is accessible by invitation only. According to the site “application to the development track is the best way to put your project into the pipeline of eventual consideration for the Screenwriters Lab.”
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED] Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
Sundance is one of the best screenwriting contests for… writers who enjoy experimental screenwriting and avant-garde filmmaking. If you like to write scripts that stick rigidly to John Yorke’s 5-act structure or the Save the Cat! beat sheet, this probably isn’t the program for you.
Check out the Sundance Screenwriters Lab >>
#30. Stowe Story Labs.
Overview. Stowe Story Labs has been running for over ten years, helping screenwriters and filmmakers develop their skills and projects through labs, mentoring, retreats and other writing programs.
Prizes/opportunities. The Labs are intensive workshops with focused table reads, pitching sessions, and mentoring.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Final – January 25, 2024
Stowe Story Labs is one of the best screenwriting contests for… writers looking for mentoring from industry professionals as well as feedback from peers in an intensive workshop environment.
#31. Cassian Elwes Independent Screenwriting Fellowship.
Overview. This is another opportunity associated with the Black List. It’s called a “fellowship” but is actually a one-off trip.
Prizes/opportunities. An all-expenses paid trip for up to two writers to the Sundance Film Festival with producer Cassian Elwes (Dallas Buyer’s Club, Mudbound).
Judges. Cassian Elwes.
What can I submit? Feature script (with an “indie sensibility”).
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
November 22, 2024
Cassian Elwes Fellowship is one of the best screenplay contests for… low budget indie feature writers. (You need to have earned less than $5,000 in your career for consideration.)
Check out the Cassian Elwes Independent Screenwriting Fellowship >>
#32. FOX Entertainment Writers Incubator.
Overview. FOX Entertainment Writers Incubator gives writers the opportunity to work intensively on their scripts under the guidance of established writers, executives, mentors, directors and producers.
Prizes/opportunities. The chosen few writers will attend a three-month writing workshop at FOX and receive priority in staffing meetings on their TV shows.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadline. [ENDED]
FOX Incubator is one of the best screenwriting contests for… getting your foot in the door at a major studio.
Check out the FOX Entertainment Writers Incubator >>
#33. Filmmatic Screenplay Awards.
Overview. This screenwriting contest is for comedy, drama, sci-fi, fantasy and horror writers. There’s very little by the way of information on the site, but we know writers who’ve made things happen since winning so it’s worth a look.
Prizes/opportunities. Grand prize winner receives $1,000, plus various other prizes.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Feature script, TV pilot, short, pitch.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Late – June 30, 2024
Extended – July 31, 2024
Filmmatic is one of the best screenwriting contests for… dedicated genre submissions and a higher chance of winning a lesser-known contest.
Check out the Filmmatic Screenplay Awards >>
#34. Paramount Writers Mentoring Program.
Overview. Paramount’s Writers Mentoring Program prepares aspiring writers for a career in television.
Prizes/opportunities. Successful candidates are accepted onto an eight-month mentorship with with showrunners, studio and network executives.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
The Paramount Program is one of the best screenwriting contests for… aspiring writers who are serious about a career in television.
Check out the Paramount Writers Mentoring Program >>
#35. Warner Bros. Access Programs.
Overview. Like Universal, Warner Bros. also has three programs: a WBD Access Writers’ Program for TV writers, WBD Access Showrunner Program for senior-level TV writers, WBD Access x Canadian Academy Writers’ Program for mid-level Canadian writers, and Writers Exchange Program aimed, rather specifically, at experienced theater writers based in Northern England hoping to break into television.
Prizes/opportunities. Each program presents a unique opportunity but they all involve placement opportunities, mentorships, “artist-in-residence”-style programs and industry exposure.
Judges. Warner Bros. Discovery executives, creators, veteran showrunners and producers.
What can I submit? Feature film, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
Warner Bros. Programs are some of the best screenwriting contests for… a higher chance of getting hired by Warners upon completion. Although they appear to be heavy on favoring writers from “underrepresented communities.”
Check out the Warner Bros. Programs >>
#36. The Writers Lab.
Overview. The Writers Lab works exclusively with women over the age of 40, giving them the opportunity to work on a feature script or TV pilot with help from a team of industry professionals. There are three to choose from: US Lab, UK & Ireland Lab, and Europe Lab.
Prizes/opportunities. Successful applicants will engage in an intensive four-day development workshop that includes panel discussions, one-on-one meetings, mock writers rooms, and peer workshops.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? It’s not clear from the site, but we presume a feature script or TV pilot.
Will I get notes? Yes, for a fee.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
The Writers Lab is one of the best script competitions for… Female screenwriters over 40.
#37. Nickelodeon Writing Program.
Overview. They say it’s not a writing contest but “a launching pad,” but either way you’ll need to compete with hundreds of other prospective TV writers to get a place on the program.
Prizes/opportunities. Winners will be accepted onto a one-year, paid full-time development program for kids/family TV writers.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? Live action or animation TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Sign up to their mailing list and/or follow on social media for the latest updates.
Nickelodeon Writing Program is one of the best scriptwriting contests for… breaking into family and kids’ TV writing.
Check out the Nickelodeon Writing Program >>
#38. Disney Entertainment Television Writing Program.
Overview. This year-long paid Disney Writing Program includes workshops, networking opportunities with programming executives with the aim of becoming a staff writer on a show.
Prizes/opportunities. Not only do you get paid for the year, but the program has a 100 percent staffing rate each year.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Follow on social media for updates.
DET Writing Program is one of the top screenwriting contests for… getting staffed on a TV show. Previous candidates have gone on to write for Mad Men, Breaking Bad and The Killing, so this is one of the best screenwriting fellowships if you’re serious about getting noticed as a writer.
Check out the DET Writing Program >>
#39. WGA Writers Access Support Staff Training Program.
Overview. The Writers Guild Foundation provides a couple of programs with a unique angle: The Veterans Writing Project and Writers Access and Support Staff Training Program. Both provide the tools necessary for emerging writers to find work in development or complete a top-level screenplay.
Prizes/opportunities. Successful veterans will be partnered with a WGA member and placed on a 9-month development program that includes a weekend retreat, weekly course, workshops and special events. The Writers Access Program consists of a 12-week course tailored to helping writers become an assistant or script coordinator.
Judges. Professional TV writers and producers.
What can I submit? Feature film, TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines. [ENDED]
Final – February 12, 2024.
The WGA Programs are some of the top screenplay competitions for… US military veterans and writers over the age of 50 as these are the only programs on the list that cater for veterans and address agism in Hollywood.
Check out the WGA Writers Access Program >>
#40. NBC Launch TV Writers Program.
Overview. The NBC Launch TV Writers Program replaces the long-standing Writers on the Verge, but its aim is the same—“to create the next generation of showrunners and content creators.”
Prizes/opportunities. Winners are invited to participate in an eight-month program in which they develop an original television pilot alongside a NBCUniversal programming executive.
Judges. We couldn’t find any details on the site.
What can I submit? TV pilot.
Will I get notes? No.
Submission deadlines.
Final – June 23, 2024
NBC Launch is one of the best scriptwriting contests for… the site makes it seem like you’ll stand more chance of being selected if you’re from a “diverse” background, but the Eligibility Requirements don’t mention this, so who knows?
The best screenwriting contests: conclusion.
Many screenwriters got their big breaks from winning one of the best screenwriting fellowships or competitions on this list. But your script has to be not just good, but exceptional. However, one of the biggest mistakes we see writers make is submitting a sub-par script to a competition or fellowship.
Just like submitting to a manager, agent, or production company, you only get one shot at this, so you really need to make sure that your script is in the best shape it can be before entering.
Screenwriting contest calendar.
And don’t forget to download our Screenwriting Calendar to help keep track of all the best screenwriting contests and fellowships.
Once you’ve worked your way through those, download our Screenwriters’ Calendar so you can keep track of all the contests, festivals and fellowships during the year! Get the calendar >>
The pros and cons of entering screenwriting contests and fellowships.
The biggest pro can be summed up in one word—exposure. It is a well known fact that the best screenplay contests provide a great way for aspiring writers to finally gain some recognition.
Winning a competition is, of course, the desired outcome of entering, but even placing in the top ten can gain a writer recognition, a manager, option, development deal, etc.
The biggest con is the money factor. It can get pretty pricey sending your script(s) to half a dozen or more competitions at $60 a throw.
If you’ve got a great script and you’ve got the cash, there is absolutely nothing wrong with entering as many script contests as you can. It can only increase your chances of success. Then again, we have to reiterate that your script had better be in the best shape possible, otherwise you’re just setting yourself up for a huge letdown.
Unfortunately, some screenplay contests demand high fees just to enter, promise the world without delivering, or are just plain scams. Thankfully, none of them are on this list.
Not sure if your script’s ready to enter a screenplay contest or fellowship?
We have a Script Audit service that will get you a 30-min call with the pro screenwriter of your choice. They will advise you on if it’s ready to submit or, if not, the exact steps you need to take to get it ready. All for just $95. Click below to get started.
Alternatively, we also have a variety of script coverage and editing services that will give your script the best possible chance of placing highly in a screenwriting competition.
Overall, in order to avoid wasting your money, we recommend not sending your script out to anyone, including script competitions/fellowships, until it has received at least a “Strong Consider” from a reputable script consultancy.
Make sure you’re completely happy with it before sending it in, even if it means spending a few bucks more in order to sneak it into the late entry category.
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We hope you enjoyed this post. Let us know how you get on in the comments section below or if you have any questions or concerns. And good luck!
Liked this post? Read more on the best screenwriting contests and how to break into the industry…
How to Become a Screenwriter: A Pro’s Guide to Unlocking Your Career
Screenplay Submissions 101: How to Submit a Screenplay Like a Pro
How to Sell a Screenplay: 6 Most Popular Ways New Writers Make a Sale
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