The International Screenwriters’ Association (ISA) has opened submissions for its 2025–26 Student Fellowship, a free-to-enter program designed to elevate emerging writers with real industry exposure and support.
Up to three Fellows will receive $1,000 in ISA platform credits, private meetings with ISA Development Executives, consideration for the ISA Development Slate, and editorial features in Creative Screenwriting and Film Inquiry.
“The industry is hungry for fresh perspectives, “ said Craig James, Founder of the International Screenwriters’ Association. “This fellowship gives students a real shot at being discovered – not just recognized, but actually connected to the people who can advance their careers.”
The fellowship is open worldwide to students 18+ enrolled in any program, university, community college, or online, and accepts feature screenplays, TV pilots, web series, and shorts across all genres. The top 50 finalists will also receive a three-month ISAConnect membership.
ISA notes that past Fellows have signed with major agencies and managers and seen projects optioned and pushed into development. The Student Fellowship joins the organization’s broader pipeline (including the Fast Track Fellowship, Diversity Initiative, and Table Read My Screenplay) to connect new voices with decision-makers at companies such as Netflix, Disney+, Amazon/MGM Studios, and HBO.
Key Dates
- Final submission deadline: December 18, 2025
- Top 50 finalists announced: January 15, 2026
- Student Fellows announced: February 11, 2026 ISA Student Fellowship 2025
“Past ISA Fellows have signed with CAA, Paradigm, and ICM. They’ve landed management deals and gotten scripts optioned,” added Felicity Wren, ISA’s VP of Development. “The Student Fellowship is designed to give young writers the same real-world industry access that launched those careers.”
Submit free entries here.
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