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2025 Screenwriting Contest

Late Deadline: May 15, 2025

The 23rd Annual Screenwriting Contest develops talented writers and connects them with producers, agencies, and managers who can help launch their career.

FAQ

What are the submission deadlines and fees?
  • Special Entry: September 20, 2024 - $35
  • Pre-register: December 27, 2024 - $45
  • Early: March 5, 2025 - $55
  • Regular: May 1, 2025 - $65
  • Late: May 15, 2025 - $70
  • Extended: May 30, 2025 - $75

How long should my script be?

We strongly advise sticking to the industry standard of 90-120 pages as that tends to work the best for features. That being said, the minimum length accepted is 75 pages, and the maximum is 150.

Are notes included?

Written feedback is not included on entries, but entrants may add one-page general notes as an optional service during registration for a reduced rate. Feedback is kept separate from judging—meaning you'll have a different Pipeline development executive reviewing your contest entry, and the notes have no bearing on the judging process.

If I make updates to my script after entering, do I have to re-register and pay a new entry fee?

At no extra fee, writers may submit a new draft at any time up until the late deadline of May 31st, 2025.

Yes, this is uncommon for a contest. Yes, we're (probably) the only contest that does this. Yes, we think it should be standard.

Updated drafts may be emailed to us direct.

Should I put contact info on the cover page?

It's not required. Logline and genre on the title page is preferred, but also not required.

If I place, do I retain the rights to my script?

Yes. All rights to the material remain with the writer, regardless of whether or not they win or place.

Can international writers enter?

Yes. All Pipeline contests are open to writers worldwide. Proud to say, every year we discover great new scripts from writers in Australia, Canada, the UK, Ireland, South America ... all over.

Can I submit to other contests or companies after entering?

Yes. There are no restrictions on submitting to other writing contests or fellowships, or sending your script elsewhere while entered in the contest. If your script is optioned while in competition, you'd still be eligible as long as you submitted prior to the option or shopping agreement date. If the script is sold during competition, we can pull the entry.

Are writing teams accepted?

Yes. Only one writer needs to register. If the script is selected as a Quarterfinalist, all co-writer names will be added to the announcement at that time.

Will you accept short scripts or pitches?

Only feature-length scripts are accepted.

Pitches may be submitted to our bi-annual Pitch Contest.

Short scripts may be submitted to Film Pipeline.

Contact our contest coordinator with any other questions.

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Upcoming Deadlines

2025 Screenwriting Contest

Late Deadline: May 15, 2025

The 23rd Annual Screenwriting Contest develops talented writers and connects them with producers, agencies, and managers who can help launch their career.

2025 TV Writing Contest

Late Deadline: May 15, 2025

The 18th Annual TV Writing Contest searches for extraordinary writers and pilots, connecting them with production companies, agencies, and managers.

2025 Pitch Contest (Spring/Summer)

Regular Deadline: June 20, 2025

The Pitch Contest reviews original film and TV series ideas for development with Script Pipeline’s executive team, prior to consideration for managers and production companies.

2025 First Look Project

Early Deadline: June 20, 2025

The 14th Annual First Look Project searches for higher-concept material across MULTIPLE categories for film and TV, introducing select writers to reps and producers.

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This one is best-expressed through a timeline ... A totally easy process spanning a breezy … nine years. From Laura: "The Pipeline team has been amazingly helpful since The Mother was a finalist in the Script Pipeline TV competition years ago. It's a story that has stayed close to my heart so I ended up adapting it […]

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April 30, 2025

First Look Project winner (Horror & Thriller) Kelly Walker signed with reps at Kaplan/Perrone in April 2025. The Script Pipeline team helped develop The Stag & the Bull after her FLP win and said of the screenplay "probably the best erotic thriller script we've read ..." Kelly's debut feature was My Fiona, which she wrote […]

Screenwriting Winner Getaway Produced

August 28, 2024

2017 Screenwriting Competition winner Getaway was produced in the summer of 2024. Jason Biggs (American Pie, Orange is the New Black) makes his directorial debut with the crime/comedy. Stars Anna Conkle (Pen15), Arturo Castro (Broad City), Meaghan Rath (Hawaii Five-o), and Justin H. Lin (The Umbrella Academy). Motion Picture Corporation of America (MPCA) producing. Written […]

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