The Best Screenwriting Competitions COMING UP 2025
If you’re an emerging screenwriter looking to break into the industry, screenwriting competitions can be a fantastic way to gain exposure, receive valuable feedback, and even secure representation. With so many contests out there, it can be tough to know which ones are worth your time. That’s where we come in! Here’s our curated list of the best screenwriting competitions to help you take your career to the next level.
1. The Academy Nicholl Fellowships
Why Enter? Run by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, this is one of the most prestigious screenwriting competitions in the world. Winners receive a $35,000 fellowship and unparalleled industry recognition.
Deadline: Typically in May
Entry Fee: $50-$85
Perks: Winners attend Academy events and networking opportunities with top industry professionals.
2. The Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition
Why Enter? AFF is known for championing writers, and this competition provides direct access to industry gatekeepers, including producers and agents. Finalists often go on to land deals and representation.
Deadline: March – May
Entry Fee: $50-$80
Perks: Industry panels, networking events, and mentorship opportunities.
3. Final Draft Big Break Contest
Why Enter? Sponsored by Final Draft, this contest provides winners with exposure to high-level industry executives. It’s a great opportunity for writers looking for representation.
Deadline: July
Entry Fee: $45-$75
Perks: Cash prizes, meetings with managers and agents, and VIP access to Final Draft events.
4. PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Why Enter? PAGE has a strong track record of helping winners land top representation and industry jobs.
Deadline: January – May
Entry Fee: $45-$75
Perks: Cash prizes up to $25,000, networking opportunities, and Hollywood exposure.
5. Script Pipeline Screenwriting Contest
Why Enter? Script Pipeline is known for connecting writers with industry professionals who can truly move their careers forward.
Deadline: May
Entry Fee: $50-$75
Perks: Industry exposure, mentorship, and script circulation to managers and production companies.
6. The Sundance Screenwriters Lab
Why Enter? Hosted by the Sundance Institute, this lab provides mentorship from A-list screenwriters and a direct path to the Sundance Film Festival.
Deadline: May
Entry Fee: Free
Perks: A five-day workshop, mentorship, and networking with top filmmakers.
7. The BlueCat Screenplay Competition
Why Enter? BlueCat provides detailed script feedback for every entrant, making it a great choice for writers looking to improve their craft.
Deadline: November – December
Entry Fee: $45-$70
Perks: Cash prizes, script feedback, and exposure to agents and managers.
8. BBC Writersroom Opportunities
Why Enter? BBC Writersroom runs multiple contests throughout the year, offering UK writers a chance to get their scripts read by top industry professionals and potentially produced by the BBC.
Deadline: Varies
Entry Fee: Free
Perks: Industry mentorship, development opportunities, and potential commissions.
10. BAFTA Rocliffe New Writing Competition
Why Enter? A highly respected UK competition that gives winners the opportunity to have their script performed live and receive expert feedback from BAFTA members.
Deadline: Varies
Entry Fee: Around £50
Perks: Script performed by professional actors, networking with BAFTA members, and development support.
11. Shore Scripts Screenwriting Contest
Why Enter? Shore Scripts is one of the UK’s most respected competitions, with winners having their work read by top industry judges and production companies.
Deadline: April - August
Entry Fee: £40-£60
Perks: Cash prizes, mentorship, and potential production opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Submitting to screenwriting competitions can be a game-changer for emerging writers. Whether you're looking for cash prizes, industry exposure, or valuable feedback, there’s a contest out there for you. Make sure to research each competition’s past winners and success stories to see which best aligns with your goals. And most importantly—keep writing!
Have a script ready to pitch? Create your SMASH Pitch today and get your project in front of industry professionals!