When Lena Waithe won an Emmy for “Master of None” in 2017, she wasn’t just celebrating a personal triumph—she was celebrating the journey that began years earlier as a fellow in the prestigious Fox Writers Lab.
Similarly, before Ryan Coogler directed “Black Panther,” his path to Hollywood was paved through the Sundance Screenwriters Lab, where his project “Fruitvale Station” was developed.
These success stories highlight the career-launching power of screenwriting fellowships—structured programs that provide emerging writers with mentorship, industry connections, and often financial support to develop their craft and break into the highly competitive entertainment industry.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best screenwriting fellowships for 2025, covering opportunities across film, television, and specialized categories.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your screenwriting career, this guide will help you identify the right opportunities for your specific goals and career stage.
What Are Screenwriting Fellowships?
Screenwriting fellowships are competitive professional development programs designed to identify and nurture talented writers.
Unlike contests, which typically offer one-time prizes, fellowships provide sustained support through structured mentorship, workshops, and industry exposure over weeks or months.
The best fellowships offer a combination of:
- Professional mentorship from established industry writers and producers
- Direct industry access to executives, agents, and production companies
- Financial support through stipends, grants, or paid positions
- Skill development through workshops and collaborative feedback
- Peer community connections with fellow writers at similar career stages
Many successful screenwriters cite fellowships as critical turning points in their careers. For instance, Tanya Saracho (creator of “Vida”) credits the National Hispanic Media Coalition’s Television Writers Program for launching her television career, while Phil Lord (co-director of “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”) developed early connections through the NBC Writers on the Verge program.
How to Choose the Right Fellowship
With dozens of fellowships available, finding the right fit requires strategic thinking about your specific goals and circumstances:
- Career Stage Assessment: Be honest about where you are in your development. Some fellowships target absolute beginners, while others seek writers with some professional credits.
- Specialization Focus: Consider whether you’re primarily interested in feature films, television writing, or specific genres. Some fellowships specialize in comedy, drama, or children’s content.
- Financial Considerations: Application fees can add up quickly. Budget not only for fees ($30-100 per application) but also for potential relocation if accepted to location-specific programs.
- Geographic Requirements: Many top fellowships require in-person participation in Los Angeles or New York. Others offer remote options, particularly post-pandemic.
- Application Timeline: Fellowship deadlines cluster in particular seasons. Mapping application deadlines allows for strategic preparation and prevents last-minute scrambling.
Top Feature Film Screenwriting Fellowships
1. Academy Nicholl Fellowship
Overview: Administered by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (the Oscar people), the Nicholl is widely considered the most prestigious feature film fellowship in the industry.
Key Benefits:
- $35,000 fellowship grant (typically awarded to 5 writers annually)
- Invitation to an exclusive awards dinner with Academy members
- Industry-wide recognition and exposure
- Mentorship from established screenwriters
Application Timeline: Opens February, closes May 2025
Eligibility: Writers who have earned less than $25,000 writing for film or television
Success Metrics: Past fellows include Destin Daniel Cretton (“Shang-Chi”), Susannah Grant (“Erin Brockovich”), and Allison Anders (“Gas Food Lodging”)
Expert Tip: “Nicholl readers prize original voices and emotional resonance over commercial concepts. Write the story only you can tell.” – Franklin Leonard, founder of The Black List
2. Sundance Screenwriters Lab
Overview: A week-long intensive workshop held at the Sundance Resort in Utah, providing emerging writers with the opportunity to work with established screenwriters, directors, and producers.
Key Benefits:
- One-on-one story sessions with creative advisors
- Inclusion in the Sundance network of artists
- Potential for additional Sundance support (directing lab, producing lab)
- Development grants for promising projects
Application Timeline: Opens August, closes October 2025
Eligibility: Open to writers worldwide with independent feature film projects
Notable Alumni: Ryan Coogler (“Black Panther”), Taika Waititi (“Jojo Rabbit”), Marielle Heller (“Can You Ever Forgive Me?”)
What Sets It Apart: The Sundance Lab focuses more on artistic development than commercial viability, prioritizing unique voices and innovative storytelling approaches.
3. Film Independent Screenwriting Lab
Overview: A five-week program in Los Angeles providing personalized feedback on feature film scripts through one-on-one creative meetings, workshops, and industry networking events.
Key Benefits:
- Personalized mentorship from industry professionals
- Script development workshops
- Film Independent membership benefits
- Access to the Film Independent network of filmmakers
Application Timeline: Opens November 2024, closes January 2025
Eligibility: Open to writers with feature-length narrative film projects
Program Format: Weekly evening sessions over five weeks in Los Angeles
Best Practice: “Submit a script that showcases your unique perspective. Film Independent prizes diversity of voice and experience.” – Angela Lee, Former Artist Development Director
4. Universal Writers Program
Overview: A one-year paid fellowship within Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, focusing on feature film development.
Key Benefits:
- Full-time paid position ($83,000 annually)
- Direct development experience within a major studio
- Access to Universal executives and filmmakers
- Dedicated script development support
Application Timeline: Opens April, closes June 2025
Eligibility: Open to writers 18 or older authorized to work in the U.S.
What Evaluators Look For: Strong original voice, unique perspective, and commercial sensibility
Success Story: Juel Taylor, a Universal Writers Program alumnus, co-wrote “Creed II” and has gone on to develop multiple projects within the Universal system.
5. Black List Feature Lab
Overview: A week-long intensive mentorship program for feature film writers, hosted by The Black List, known for its annual survey of best unproduced screenplays.
Key Benefits:
- Small-group workshops with industry mentors
- One-on-one sessions with established screenwriters
- Pitch preparation and practice
- Black List network access
Application Timeline: Varies by year, typically announced in early 2025
Selection Process: Writers must have scripts hosted on The Black List that receive high ratings
Industry Exposure: The Black List’s industry relationships often lead to representation and option opportunities for participants
Top Television Writing Fellowships
1. Warner Bros. Television Writers’ Workshop
Overview: A comprehensive program focused on preparing writers for staff positions on Warner Bros. television shows.
Key Benefits:
- Intensive 10-week workshop led by Warner Bros. executives
- Guaranteed paid staff writer position upon successful completion
- Script development and rewriting experience
- Exposure to showrunners and creative executives
Application Timeline: Opens March, closes May 2025
Requirements: Original pilot script (drama or comedy) and resume
Selection Process: Multi-stage review including script evaluation and personal interviews
Success Metrics: Over 75% of participants secure staff positions, with alumni writing for shows like “Abbott Elementary,” “Succession,” and “Ted Lasso”
2. Disney/ABC Writing Program
Overview: A one-year paid fellowship focused on fostering the next generation of television writers.
Key Benefits:
- $50,000 salary plus benefits
- Workshops on television writing and the business of entertainment
- Mentorship from Disney/ABC creative executives
- Potential staff writer placement on Disney/ABC shows
Application Timeline: Opens May, closes June 2025
Requirements: Original spec script of current show plus original pilot
Selection Criteria: Strong original voice, unique perspective, and technical proficiency
Alumni Achievements: Program graduates have created shows including “Fresh Off the Boat” (Nahnatchka Khan) and written for Emmy-winning series like “The Handmaid’s Tale”
3. NBC Writers on the Verge
Overview: A 12-week program designed to prepare emerging writers for staff writer positions, with a focus on diverse voices.
Key Benefits:
- Weekly workshops on television writing craft
- Mock writers’ room experience
- Pitching and interviewing preparation
- Industry networking events
Application Timeline: Opens July, closes August 2025
Requirements: Original pilot plus spec script of current show
What Makes Applications Stand Out: “We look for distinctive voices who understand both character development and television structure. Technical proficiency matters as much as creative spark.” – Karen Horne, SVP Programming Talent Development & Inclusion
Staffing Success: The program boasts an 85% staffing rate for participants, with writers placed on shows across multiple networks and platforms.
4. CBS Writers Mentoring Program
Overview: An eight-month mentorship program pairing emerging writers with CBS executives and showrunners.
Key Benefits:
- One-on-one mentorship with CBS executives
- Writers’ room observation opportunities
- Development of new material under guidance
- Industry introductions and networking support
Application Timeline: Opens April, closes May 2025
Materials Needed: Original pilot, current spec script, personal statement, resume
Selection Criteria: Writing ability, unique perspective, and demonstrated passion for television
Success Stories: Alumni have written for shows including “NCIS,” “S.W.A.T.,” “The Neighborhood,” and “Evil”
5. Nickelodeon Writing Program
Overview: A comprehensive program focused on developing writers for kids and animation content.
Key Benefits:
- Paid, full-time position ($60,000 annually)
- Writer’s room experience on current Nickelodeon shows
- Dedicated script development
- Specialized training in writing for younger audiences
Application Timeline: Opens January, closes February 2025
Tracks Available: Animation writing and live-action writing
Program Structure: One-year fellowship with potential for staff placement
Unique Aspect: One of the few major programs focused specifically on children’s content, offering specialized training in writing for different age demographics
Diversity-Focused Screenwriting Fellowships
1. HBO Access Writing Fellowship
Overview: A fellowship designed to give diverse writers access to HBO executives and showrunners.
Key Benefits:
- Eight-month mentorship with HBO creative executives
- $20,000 stipend
- Development of original material
- Networking opportunities within WarnerMedia
Eligibility: Writers from underrepresented backgrounds without current HBO/Max credits
Application Process: Submission of original pilot and personal statement
Timeline: Opens September, closes October 2025
Success Stories: Alumni have gone on to write for “Insecure,” “Westworld,” and “Lovecraft Country”
2. CAPE New Writers Fellowship (Asian Pacific)
Overview: A six-week program dedicated to developing Asian and Pacific Islander writers.
Key Benefits:
- Small-group workshops (typically 8-10 fellows)
- One-on-one mentorship with established API writers
- Industry panels and networking events
- Script development support
Application Timeline: Opens November 2024, closes January 2025
Requirements: Complete pilot script, series treatment, personal statement
Community Benefits: Strong alumni network provides ongoing support and networking
Success Metrics: Alumni have secured representation at major agencies and staffed on shows including “The Good Doctor,” “Warrior,” and “Young Sheldon”
3. Inevitable Foundation Screenwriting Fellowship (Disabled Writers)
Overview: A fellowship providing substantial financial and development support to disabled screenwriters.
Key Benefits:
- $40,000 financial grant
- Personalized mentorship and career development
- Industry connections and advocacy
- Script development support
Application Timeline: Quarterly application windows throughout 2025
Requirements: Identification as disabled, writing samples, career goals statement
Industry Impact: Beyond individual writer development, the program works to change industry perceptions and increase disability representation
4. National Hispanic Media Coalition Writers Program
Overview: A five-week intensive workshop for Latino writers, sponsored by major studios and networks.
Key Benefits:
- Daily writing workshops
- Industry networking events
- Meetings with creative executives
- Representation showcases
Application Timeline: Opens June, closes August 2025
Requirements: Original pilot or feature script, resume, personal statement
Success Metrics: 72% of graduates have been staffed on television shows, including “Gentefied,” “Snowfall,” and “Queen of the South”
5. Sesame Workshop Writers’ Room
Overview: A fellowship focused on developing diverse talent for children’s media and educational content.
Key Benefits:
- Six-month virtual workshop series
- $10,000 development grant
- Mentorship from Sesame Workshop creators
- Potential for project development
Application Timeline: Opens February, closes April 2025
Unique Opportunity: One of the few programs focused on the intersection of entertainment and educational content
Career Pathways: Fellows often find opportunities in children’s media, educational technology, and family entertainment
Emerging and Noteworthy Fellowships
1. ScreenCraft Screenwriting Fellowship
Overview: A fellowship providing development support, mentorship, and industry connections.
Key Benefits:
- $1,000 cash grant
- Meetings with literary managers and producers
- Script development consultation
- Industry exposure through ScreenCraft’s network
Application Timeline: Quarterly deadlines throughout 2025
Requirements: Feature screenplay or TV pilot with series bible
What Sets It Apart: Strong focus on commercial viability and mainstream potential
Success Stories: Recent fellows have signed with UTA, Verve, and Management 360
2. ISA Fast Track Fellowship
Overview: A career development program providing direct industry access through the International Screenwriters Association.
Key Benefits:
- One-on-one meetings with production companies
- Mentorship from established screenwriters
- Script development support
- Ongoing ISA promotional support
Application Process: Two-stage selection with preliminary and final judging
Timeline: Opens January, closes March 2025
Selection Criteria: Commercial viability, craft excellence, and unique voice
Success Stories: Fellows have secured six-figure script sales and representation at major agencies
3. Final Draft Big Break Contest
Overview: While technically a contest, the Big Break program offers fellowship-like benefits to winners.
Key Benefits:
- $10,000 grand prize
- Meetings with executives, agents, and managers
- Final Draft software and subscriptions
- Industry exposure and press coverage
Application Timeline: Opens February, closes July 2025
Categories: Feature and television divisions with genre subcategories
Judging Focus: Commercial potential, originality, and technical proficiency
Success Stories: Winners have sold scripts to Netflix, Amazon, and major studios
4. Austin Film Festival Screenplay Competition
Overview: One of the most prestigious screenplay competitions, offering significant development opportunities.
Key Benefits:
- Cash prizes for winners
- Roundtable discussions with industry professionals
- Conference badges for semifinalists and above
- Exposure to production companies and agencies
Application Timeline: Opens January, closes May (early deadline) or July (final deadline) 2025
Categories: Multiple divisions including feature, television, and specialized genres
Conference Connection: Semifinalists and above receive significant exposure at the Austin Film Festival and Writers Conference
Industry Recognition: Consistently ranked among the top opportunities for emerging screenwriters
5. PAGE International Screenwriting Awards
Overview: A competition recognizing excellence across multiple genres with fellowship-like benefits.
Key Benefits:
- $25,000 grand prize
- Over $50,000 in total cash and prizes
- Industry exposure to production companies
- Mentorship opportunities for winners
Application Timeline: Opens December 2024, closes April 2025
Category Breakdown: Gold, Silver, and Bronze prizes across 10 genre categories
Judging Process: Multi-round evaluation by industry professionals
Success Metrics: Winners have sold scripts to major studios, been hired for assignments, and secured representation
Fellowship Application Strategy
Applying to screenwriting fellowships requires both strategic planning and creative preparation:
Timeline Planning: Most major fellowship deadlines cluster between February and August. Create a calendar marking:
- Earliest deadlines (usually Universal and Nickelodeon in early spring)
- Mid-year deadlines (Warner Bros., Disney/ABC in early summer)
- Late deadlines (Sundance and diversity fellowships in fall)
Budget Considerations: With application fees ranging from $30-100, apply strategically:
- Tier 1: High-impact programs matching your specific goals (3-5 applications)
- Tier 2: Secondary target programs (3-5 applications)
- Tier 3: “Reach” opportunities if budget allows
Script Preparation Guidelines:
- Have at least two polished writing samples (ideally one pilot, one spec)
- Ensure perfect formatting using industry-standard software
- Complete multiple proofreading passes or hire professional readers
- Get feedback from trusted readers before submitting
Personal Statement Tips:
- Connect your unique background to your storytelling perspective
- Be specific about career goals and how the fellowship advances them
- Demonstrate knowledge of the specific program’s values and alumni
- Balance confidence with humility and willingness to learn
Common Fellowship Application Mistakes
Fellowship coordinators cite these recurring issues that doom otherwise promising applications:
Script Formatting Problems:
- Inconsistent formatting or non-standard presentation
- Excessive page count (over 65 pages for pilots, 120 for features)
- Typos and grammatical errors that suggest carelessness
Personal Statement Missteps:
- Generic statements that could apply to any program
- Focusing too much on hardship without connecting to creative vision
- Name-dropping without substantive industry understanding
- Expressing entitlement rather than gratitude for the opportunity
Missing Components:
- Incomplete applications with missing materials
- Failure to follow specific submission guidelines
- Submitting outdated writing samples
Inappropriate Follow-Up:
- Excessive querying about application status
- Arguing with rejection decisions
- Requesting detailed feedback when not offered
Expert Tips from Fellowship Alumni
Advice from writers who successfully navigated the fellowship process:
Meg Aldrich (NBC Writers on the Verge):
“Submit your most authentic work, not what you think they want to read. These programs are looking for distinctive voices, not derivative writing.”
Daniel Chun (Disney/ABC Writing Program):
“Use the personal statement to show both your unique life perspective and your deep understanding of television. The combination makes you memorable.”
Jorge Rivera (NHMC Television Writers Program):
“Develop a thick skin and keep applying. I got into my fellowship on my third attempt, after incorporating feedback and gaining more experience.”
Laura Covington (CBS Writers Mentoring Program):
“Treat the application process as professional development. Each submission makes you better at articulating your voice and goals.”
Rafael Agustin (Sundance Episodic Lab):
“Find the fellowship that genuinely matches your current work and voice. I wasted years applying to programs that weren’t right for my specific perspective and genre interests.”
What to Do If You Don’t Get In
Fellowship rejection is statistically normal, with most programs accepting less than 1% of applicants. Productive responses include:
Reapplication Strategies:
- Request feedback when available (most fellowships don’t provide it, but some do)
- Revisit and strengthen your writing samples
- Update your personal statement with new experiences
- Consider what might make your application more competitive
Alternative Development Paths:
- Join writer’s groups for peer feedback and networking
- Take advanced screenwriting workshops
- Produce micro-budget content showcasing your voice
- Seek mentorship outside formal fellowship structures
Using Rejection Constructively:
- Analyze why certain programs might not have been ideal fits
- Identify skill gaps and address them through targeted learning
- Consider whether your submission materials truly represented your best work
Building Your Own Support Network:
- Connect with other applicants through social media and writing groups
- Attend industry events and conferences
- Create accountability partnerships with fellow writers
- Share resources and opportunities
Fellowship Calendar (2025)
January-February:
- Nickelodeon Writing Program (opens January)
- Final Draft Big Break (opens February)
- Academy Nicholl Fellowship (opens February)
- Sesame Workshop Writers’ Room (opens February)
March-April:
- Warner Bros. Television Writers’ Workshop (opens March)
- CBS Writers Mentoring Program (opens April)
- Universal Writers Program (opens April)
May-June:
- Disney/ABC Writing Program (opens May)
- Academy Nicholl Fellowship (closes May)
- Warner Bros. Television Writers’ Workshop (closes May)
- CBS Writers Mentoring Program (closes May)
- Universal Writers Program (closes June)
- NHMC Television Writers Program (opens June)
- Disney/ABC Writing Program (closes June)
July-August:
- NBC Writers on the Verge (opens July)
- Final Draft Big Break (closes July)
- NBC Writers on the Verge (closes August)
- Sundance Screenwriters Lab (opens August)
- NHMC Television Writers Program (closes August)
September-October:
- HBO Access Writing Fellowship (opens September)
- Sundance Screenwriters Lab (closes October)
- HBO Access Writing Fellowship (closes October)
November-December:
- Film Independent Screenwriting Lab (opens November)
- CAPE New Writers Fellowship (opens November)
- PAGE International Screenwriting Awards (opens December)
Conclusion
Screenwriting fellowships represent one of the most effective paths into the professional writing world, offering not just skill development but crucial industry relationships that can launch careers.
The journey to fellowship acceptance is rarely quick or easy. Most successful applicants apply to multiple programs over several years, refining their craft and application materials with each submission. The process itself—of creating polished scripts, articulating your unique voice, and presenting yourself professionally—builds the same skills needed for long-term industry success.
As you prepare your applications for 2025’s opportunities, remember that persistence often matters more than initial talent. Many of today’s most successful showrunners faced multiple fellowship rejections before finding their industry foothold. The most important quality is resilience—the ability to keep writing, keep learning, and keep submitting even when facing inevitable rejection.
Your unique voice and perspective matter. The industry increasingly recognizes that diverse stories and storytellers create both critical and commercial success. The fellowship that eventually accepts you will do so because your specific voice resonates with their mission and goals.
Begin your application journey today. Whether targeting film, television, or specialized content, the perfect fellowship opportunity awaits.
Additional Resources
Recommended Books:
- The TV Writer’s Workbook by Ellen Sandler
- The Screenwriter’s Bible by David Trottier
- Writing the Pilot by William Rabkin
- The Hidden Tools of Comedy by Steve Kaplan (for comedy writers)
Script Consultants and Coverage Services:
- Coverage, Ink
- Script Pipeline Notes Service
- ScreenCraft Coverage
- WeScreenplay Coverage
Online Communities:
- r/Screenwriting (Reddit)
- Stage 32
- Scriptmother
- Discord Screenwriting Servers (Screenwriting, Write Club)
Skill Development Resources:
- UCLA Extension Writers’ Program
- Gotham Writers Workshop
- Script Anatomy (TV-focused classes)
- On the Page (podcasts and workshops)
Fellowship Alumni To Follow:
- @JennicaCGarcia (Disney/ABC alumni)
- @TheAlexOLoughlin (Warner Bros. alumni)
- @KirkoBangz (HBO Access alumni)
- @LatinxWriters (Collection of NHMC and other fellowship alumni)