The 10+ Best Screenplay Competitions for Screenwriters [2023]

Looking for the best screenplay competitions to enter that offer real value and opportunities?

As a screenwriter, you know how important it is to have your work seen and reviewed by the right people. Screenplay contests can be a great way to get your script into the hands of industry professionals looking for new talent.

There’s no better way to get started as a beginning screenwriter than with screenplay contests. Opportunities abound, from live-read events with judges’ feedback to international competitions with substantial prizes. And the added benefit of some of these contests is the critique and constructive criticism you can receive to help you grow as a writer. 

Personally, I’ve entered more than 100 script contests over the years, and I’ve had numerous scripts place in the top 10 or even win first place. I know how beneficial placing in a contest can be!

So now that you’re interested in scriptwriting competitions – which ones should you enter with your own script? Check out this list of my top recommended screenplay contests!

What is a Screenplay Competition?

A screenplay competition is a contest where writers enter feature-length, short, and TV pilot scripts to be read by a panel of judges, who rate the work on everything from plot to character development to dialogue to action to technical aspects, like spelling, format, and grammar.

Whether it is an annual screenwriting competition, a monthly contest, or a one-off, competitions are typically one of two types. The first is a standalone event dedicated strictly to writers and their craft; the second is when they are part of a film festival where filmmakers showcase their films.

Either way, it can be a great way to get your work noticed by industry professionals. Competitions and festivals allow filmmakers, writers, and directors to show off their writing and directing skills and other talents.

Competitions can include everything from short films and digital series to feature-length films, TV pilots, and documentaries. By participating in a screenwriting contest, you can network with potential partners for future projects, gain exposure for your work, or even win awards and prize money.

If you’re considering entering such a script competition, it’s important to pick one that best suits your genre and writing style and be aware of all the submission requirements. But most importantly, don’t rush! Take the time to write a compelling screenplay and ensure it is properly polished before submission.

With luck and preparation, you may find yourself rewarded for your creativity! 

Why Enter a Screenwriting Competition?

Participating in a screenwriting competition is an excellent way for aspiring screenwriters to break into the industry and get their stories out into the world.

It’s a great way to practice your craft, get to know other professionals in the field, and gain valuable feedback from top-level industry veterans. Plus, it’s also an opportunity for you to test your scripts against those written by other writers on a level playing field.

With contest winners having the chance to receive substantial rewards such as mentorships, staff jobs, and development deals with Hollywood production companies in the aftermath of a big win, entering a screenwriting competition could make all the difference in helping you launch the career of your dreams!

Benefits of Entering Screenplay Competitions

Let’s look at some of the benefits you can receive by entering the best screenplay competitions.

Exposure and recognition

When it comes to screenwriting, one of the most effective ways of developing your craft is by entering screenplay competitions. Not only do they provide a great opportunity to be acknowledged and applauded for your work, but they also help improve your chances of gaining that all-important exposure.

Not every writer is in a filmmaking hub, and even those who are might not know the right people to see their work. A script competition may be a way to get your screenplay before a production company, agent, director, or some other key person in the film industry.

A competition win is the stamp of approval by a verified third party that something you have written has merit, and it may open doors that would have otherwise remained closed to you.

If the script contest is an in-person event, you may get the chance to network with some of the world’s brightest screenwriting minds and industry executives who can help you get your screenplay off the ground. Plus, even if you don’t walk away with the grand prize, there are still plenty of other advantages, like getting valuable feedback from experienced judges or even landing an option deal from one of them.

You may also find screenwriting classes or workshops connected to many script competitions and film festivals; these offer an opportunity to fine-tune your craft and help hone your writing skills.

Networking opportunities

Entering a screenplay competition is an excellent opportunity to get your work seen by industry professionals. It also provides networking and growth opportunities as you learn from other writers who have had similar experiences.

Meeting people in the entertainment industry can provide invaluable advice about where to find work or may even lead to collaboration on writing projects. Through these competitions, you can learn what works with readers and filmmakers and connect with those same people, providing a roadmap to success that may not be available through conventional routes.

Networking opportunities come in many shapes and forms, from mixers to after-parties to award dinners to everything in between, but participating in the right screenplay contest ensures that you are putting your best foot forward to ensure success.

Prizes

Entering screenplay contests can be a great way to boost your exposure as a screenwriter and even potentially pick up lucrative cash prizes and other awards.

Prizes for winning scripts vary greatly, from trophies to software to feedback to consideration by industry professionals, but they could also involve cash prizes that range from $100 to more than $20,000 for a grand prize winner. Other perks you could find include the opportunity to have your scripts read by producers or agents and mentoring sessions with writing professionals.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Screenwriting Competitions

Credibility and prestige

Choosing the best script competitions can be difficult, but having a few criteria to help guide your decision will make the whole process much easier. Credibility and prestige are essential criteria for this.

Look for evidence of industry professionals that have submitted their scripts in the past or have been involved in judging. Also, look at the trades online forums to see which script contests are mentioned at the top. This is a great way to get an idea of how credible and prestigious the competition is likely to be.

Additionally, research any reviews online from past participants and winners – this is usually a great source of information on how valuable it can be. In the end, go with your own instinct as well as gather intelligence from everywhere you can because selecting the right one could make all the difference!

Genre and format

When choosing the screenwriting competitions that are best for you and your work, it’s important to look at several criteria, including genre and format.

While most major competitions are open to all genres and formats of scripts – though they are divided into genres or classes – many have restrictions on what they will accept and/or award. If you specialize in a specific type of script, such as horror or sci-fi, it can be more beneficial to locate competitions especially geared towards those disciplines.

In addition, the length and format of the piece must be in alignment with the competition requirement, with many having a maximum page count for either features or shorts. It’s worth taking time to research various screenplay contests beforehand so that your submission is within their guidelines and eligible to win a prize.

Opportunities for feedback and networking

If you’re an aspiring screenwriter entering your work into screenplay contests, feedback and networking opportunities should be two of the primary criteria you consider when making your choices.

You want to make sure the prize package offers more than just a nomination or monetary award; the best competitions can provide valuable connections and advice. Competitions that offer panels of industry experts are helpful for getting real-time feedback on your work, as well as learning from other writers’ submissions.

Furthermore, many screenplay contests include some sort of event or gathering where finalists can meet with industry executives or representatives from production companies. While prize money is still important, feedback and networking opportunities can be even more valuable to your career development over time if you take advantage of them.

Prizes and recognition

When considering which screenplay competition to enter, prizes and recognition should be taken into account.

Prizes can come in many forms, from cash awards to industry connections, so it’s important to understand what the ultimate goal of your submission is and look for competitions that align with it.

Take a look at the past winners of each competition and consider the type of material that won and how those winners have gone on to get recognized by the industry afterward. This will indicate the sorts of stories, styles, and approaches that are favored and how significant each particular competition is in terms of exposure for potential success.

The 10+ Best Screenwriting Competitions to Enter

TL;DR – Screenplay Competition Summary:

Competition:	Cost to Enter:	Types of Scripts:	Important Dates for submission:	Prizes:
Academy Nicholl Fellowship	Between $50-90, depending on the date entered. Feedback is available for an additional cost.	Any original feature screenplay (NOT adapted from another work)	Early March Early April Early May	Up to five $35,000 fellowships are awarded each year.
Austin Screenplay Competiton	Between $45-85, depending on the length of the script and the date entered.	Shorts and feature-length scripts; Teleplays	Mid-March Mid-April Mid-May	Drama & Comedy – $5000; Horror & Sci-Fi – $2500; Short Script – $1000; Teleplay – $1000
PAGE International Screenwriting Awards	Between $47-77, depending on the date entered. Feedback is available at an additional cost.	Short scripts and feature-length scripts	Mid-January Mid-February Mid-March Mid-April	Grand Prize: $25,000 Gold Prize: $1000 Silver Prize: $500 Bronze Prize: $250
Sundance Institute Feature Film Program	See the site for details.	See the site for details.	January Screenwriter’s Lab; March Online Screenwriter’s Intensive	Winners will get to participate in in-person (Lab) or online (Intensive) sessions with Industry professionals and established writers.
Slamdance Screenplay Competition	Between $30-115, depending on the date entered and the length of the script. Brief feedback is included, and coverage is available for an extra fee.	Feature films, TV pilots, and short scripts	Early April Early June Late July	Grand Prize: $10,000 The winners of the Feature, Horror, TV Pilot, and Short categories will each receive $2,000. One winner will receive the Slamdance Screenplay Mentorship Award.
Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest	Between $49-155, depending on the date entered and whether you buy script feedback.	Feature films and teleplays	Mid-April Mid-May Mid-June Late June	Two Grand Prize Awards are given: $10,000 plus a list of extra benefits!
ScreenCraft Screenwriters Fellowship	$50-150, depending on the competition selected, the date entered, and whether you buy script feedback.	Multiple competitions in different genres are available (Horror, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Comedy, etc.)	See the site for specific dates for each competition.	Grand prizes include $1000 and a list of other benefits – see each competition for complete details.
Script Pipeline Screenwriting Competition	$60-65, depending on the date entered.	Feature-length screenplay.	Early May Mid-May	Winner receives $25,000 and industry circulation for their script. Runner-up receives $2,500.
BlueCat Screenplay Competition	$95	Feature screenplays, TV pilot scripts, and short film scripts	Mid-August Mid-Sept. Late Oct. Early Dec.	Grand Prize: $7500; Feature, Pilot, and Short Script Winners: $3000 each; Fellini Award: $2000
Stage 32 Happy Writers Feature Script Contests	Various costs; see individual competitions for details. Coverage is available for an additional cost.	Many competitions are available: short scripts, romantic comedies, female-driven, family-friendly, etc.	Various dates; see individual competitions for details.	Various prizes; see individual competitions for details.
Save The Cat! Screenplay Challenge	$119-159, depending on the date submitted.	Feature films and TV pilots (30 or 60 minutes).	Late Nov. Late Jan. Late Feb. Late March	Grand Prize winners receive flights to LA, a three-night hotel stay, a table read of their script, and more!

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If you’re a budding screenwriter looking to break through with a fiction feature screenplay, the Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting competition is one of the best opportunities.

Since its inception in 1985, this international screenwriting competition has accepted entries from people worldwide and offered over 700 fellowships worth over $4 million.

By entering this annual competition, you’ll gain access to some of Hollywood’s top professionals. If you win, you’ll also receive mentored guidance regarding film financing and a cash prize of up to $35,000 toward the development of a new original feature film screenplay. So if you want one of the best screenwriting competitions out there – look no further!

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Entering the Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition could be a life-changing decision.

With its long-standing reputation of over two decades, it’s not the only competition out there but it can give you incredible results if you play your cards right.

Not only could you emerge with gifts and awards like the coveted Bronze Typewriter Award or even land an agent, but industry icons attend AFF every year – so you never know who you could rub shoulders with. And even if you don’t bring home anything physical from the event itself, the contacts that you make at AFF are worth far more than gold.

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If you are looking for a top-notch screenplay competition to enter, the PAGE International Screenwriting Awards may be right up your alley!

This prestigious contest was founded in 2003 and has provided opportunities for burgeoning screenwriters ever since. Each year they evaluate dozens of projects while offering over $50,000 in cash and prizes – with gold, silver, and bronze prizes in each category, and one $25,000 cash prize for the grand prize winner – to the most promising scripts demonstrating originality, and excellent writing, and viability.

Not only is the PAGE screenplay contest judged by Hollywood producers and others searching for new cinematic projects and prospective clients, but entries are divided into ten different genres – guaranteeing at least one relevant category for all aspiring screenwriters!

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While not technically a screenplay competition, the Sundance Institute Feature Film Program is worth considering for emerging screenwriters and filmmakers.

This well-known and highly-respected program is designed to help up-and-coming writers on their journey to create compelling and widely loved stories. There are several different options within the program, such as a screenwriting lab and various fellowships, but each gives access to esteemed mentors who can provide advice and feedback throughout the process.

You also have the possibility of attending industry events and enjoying networking opportunities during the course of the program. There’s a chance of getting industry funding through this program as well.

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When looking for screenwriting competitions to enter, the Slamdance Screenplay Competition should be at the top of your list.

Established in 1997 in conjunction with the Slamdance Film Festival, this competition is dedicated to finding the best and most creative voices in the entertainment industry. Not only do you have an opportunity to showcase your writing, but you are also able to meet members of the industry who can help you get further with optioning and producing your work.

The most important factor with Slamdance is that they are looking for scripts that bring something new and different to the table, so challenge yourself to think outside the box! Entering a competition like this gives you an amazing potential platform to take your writing career even further.

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Entering the Final Draft Big Break Screenwriting Contest can be a great career move for any aspiring screenwriter. It gives you access to industry-leading judges, top consultants, and alumni winners, as well as top prizes and incredible visibility.

The competition is open to talented writers around the world and also provides personalized feedback from experienced assessors for an extra fee. This means that even if you don’t win, your screenplay still has the chance of being seen by industry professionals and may open up more opportunities for you.

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If you’re looking for an exciting screenplay competition to help showcase your work, particularly in a given genre or format, then the ScreenCraft Screenwriting Contests might be precisely what you need.

With multiple format and genre categories available, such as Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, True Story, Horror, Stage Play, and even Cinematic Book, among others, you can pick one that best fits your screenplay and get your work seen by experienced industry professionals.

The competition also gives you a chance to earn recognition and gain invaluable feedback so that you can refine your writing overall. There is even a Screenwriting Fellowship Competition that you can enter for a chance to win a series of personal meetings and consultations by industry professionals in your field.

Moreover, numerous prizes are available, including cash awards and potential meetings with Hollywood producers – it is worth entering!

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If you’re looking for a great way to get exposure and take your screenplay to the next level, the Script Pipeline Screenwriting Competition is one of the best out there.

With prizes ranging from cash rewards to direct introductions to agents, managers, producers, and other industry representatives, along with in-depth script reviews and development assistance for finalists and higher, this competition is worth your time and effort.

It is an international competition that awards recognition from a panel of professional judges, allowing you the chance to make yourself stand out in a big crowd. And the top prize is among the highest on the competition circuit.

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Looking to take your screenwriting career to the next level? The BlueCat Screenplay Competition is an excellent place to start.

With 25 years of discovering and developing storytellers, the BlueCat screenplay contest provides a complete read of your script, along with a written analysis included in the submission fee. Not only that, the winners and finalists have been able to make valuable connections in the industry which jump-started their professional careers.

They feature generous cash awards totaling $18,500 – with a special Fellini Award for the best script written outside of the US – and they take feature screenplays, TV pilots, and short film scripts!

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Entering screenwriting competitions can be a great way to boost your writing career, and Stage 32 Happy Writers Script Contests are some of the best around. They feature many different contests, including short scripts, romantic comedies, female-driven, feature-drama, action-thriller, comedy-feature, animation, and many more.

With awards ranging from travel to LA for in-person development meetings with production companies to cash prizes in the thousands of dollars, to access to Stage 32 forums and webinars, any screenwriter would benefit from looking into them.

The submission process is easy, too; you select your category, upload your screenplay and wait for the results! It’s an excellent way to network with others in the film community and receive recognition for your craft. Also offered is the option for in-depth coverage of your script for an additional fee.

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The Save The Cat! Screenplay Challenge is one of the newer screenwriting competitions on this list, but it’s one you might consider entering.

This screenwriting contest is open to writers worldwide and offers categories for features and TV pilots. Unlike the other script competitions on this list, there is no cash prize listed, however, the in-person meetings with industry pros and a live table read of your script in LA more than make up for that.

In addition, each entry receives feedback with 50 points of analysis based on Blake Snyder’s Save the Cat Beat Sheet methodology. So no matter what kind of project you’re working on, there’s an opportunity for you at Save The Cat!

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How to Enter a Screenplay Contest

Research the competition

Before you enter a screenplay contest, it’s important to research the competition thoroughly. Find out which categories and genres the contest caters to, how long the submissions need to be, and what format they should be written in.

Knowing the judges, too, is great because often they all come from different backgrounds, so adapting your script a little here and there may give you the edge to stand out above the rest. Don’t forget to read any additional rules, as well as any past experience you’ve had at the contest – this could determine whether that information gives you an advantage!

Research past winners

Researching past winners of your chosen contest is a great way to get insight into what kind of stories they tend to reward. Look beyond winner information and read recaps or articles about their winning entries to familiarize yourself with the type of material the contest might recognize.

Take note of common elements found among the most successful scripts – genres, themes, characterizations, narrative arcs – and apply these characteristics to the drafting process for your own entry.

Prepare your submission (formatting and submission guidelines)

Preparing for a screenplay contest can seem daunting, but taking the time to make sure your submission is in the proper format and satisfies all the guidelines can mean the difference between success and failure.

Start by ensuring that you’ve included all required elements like a contact form, registration details, and any synopsis or logline requested.

After that, double-check that your text appears in Courier 12-point font, that each page is correctly labeled with the page numbers at the top right corner, and that line spacing is set to 1.5 throughout the document. You’ll want to use the best screenwriting software to ensure that your script is formatted perfectly!

Some screenwriting contests allow contact information on a title page, while others prefer to have it blank save for the title. Make sure you check for these and any other special instructions before entering.

Once you have completed these steps, go ahead and submit before the deadline so you have nothing else to worry about!

Submit your screenplay (look at all deadlines)

Start looking into early bird deadlines – they often cost less than regular entry fees and may give you a slight advantage in general, as most submissions tend to come in with later deadlines.

If you want judges who aren’t overwhelmed or tired and at a lower price – get it in right away! Submissions after early bird deadlines may be accepted, but you’ll have to shell out more money.

How to handle rejection

Entering screenplay contests can be an excellent way for aspiring writers to propel their careers, but remember that rejection is part of the process.

It can be hard to feel proud of your work and still receive a “no thank you” as a response. Although disappointment is inevitable and understandable, rejection should not stop you from progressing forward with your writing journey.

That’s why opting for feedback may prove useful for many writers – both those who progress and those who are knocked out of the competition early. It’s a good way to learn what judges think of your work and also what they might be looking for in general the next time.

Changing perspective and being open to feedback allows writers to find strength when they’ve received an unfavorable outcome. Take time to assess what was learned, reflect on advice given, practice gratitude for critical insight, and continue refining your craft.

By understanding that setbacks can lead to successful connections in the future, writers have the tools necessary to make it through tough moments during screenwriting competitions while staying dedicated to mastering the art of storytelling.

Common Questions About Screenwriting Contests

What are the Best Screenplay labs?

Some of the best screenplay labs include the Austin Film Festival Writers Conference, the Sundance Institute Filmmaker Labs, and The Black List’s Writers Room. All three offer incredible mentorships and networking opportunities in addition to expert feedback.

Is the Nicholl Fellowship worth it?

While the cash prize alone makes it worthwhile, the Academy Nicholl Fellowships are unlike other screenwriting contests in that they have the highest prestige, being associated with the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. They also offer an unprecedented opportunity to work alongside other Nicholl fellows and highly regarded industry professionals, with a level of exposure for your work unlike anywhere else.

Conclusion: The Best Screenwriting Competitions

All in all, entering a screenwriting competition can be a great way to hone your writing skills, gain industry attention, and win some money in the process! If you’re looking for ways to break into the screenwriting industry, this could be it.

Put in the work upfront, do your research on the best competitions out there that align with your goals, and make sure you read and follow each competition’s rules closely. It could be a lot of work but don’t let that deter you from trying – the potential rewards are more than worth it.

Last but not least, keep at it! While most screenwriting contests happen once or twice a year, even if you don’t get chosen for one opportunity right away or even quickly afterward, submit again and again until something sticks! Success takes dedication – so don’t give up! You got this.

Looking for more info on screenwriting? Check out these other articles:

What is a Spec Script? [& How Do I Write One?]

How To Write Flashbacks in Screenplays (With Examples!)