WSF
Application Details
Everything you need to apply for the Writing the Short Film programme.
Applying is free.
Applications open
Thu, 1 October 2026
Applications close
Thu, 15 October 2026
23:59 SAST
TIMELINE
Key dates
|
Applications open |
Thursday, 1 October 2026 |
|
Informational webinar |
Thursday, 8 October 2026, 19:00 to 20:00 SAST |
|
Applications close |
Thursday, 15 October 2026, 23:59 SAST |
|
Shortlisted applicants notified |
Late October |
|
Interviews |
Late October |
|
Final selection notified |
Early November |
|
Programme duration |
November 2026 – January 2027 |
THURSDAY
8 October 2026
19:00 to 20:00 SAST
Informational webinar
Learn more about WSF and ask questions about the application on Zoom. A recording will be shared on this page afterwards.
WHO IT IS FOR
Eligibility
To apply, you must be:
No prior screenwriting experience or writing credits are required. Priority is given to applicants aged 18 to 35 and applicants from historically disadvantaged backgrounds. Visit the WSF programme page for more information. Not eligible? Explore our Resources page.
YOUR MATERIALS
What to submit
Upload as PDF
CV (1 TO 2 PAGES)
Education, work experience (related or unrelated to writing), skills and any awards. Up to two optional references with name, relationship and email.
SCRIPT ASSIGNMENT (2.5 TO 5 PAGES)
Write a scene in standard screenplay format.
“The Memorable Day“
Think of a day you will never forget. Choose one moment from that day and write it as a short screenplay scene, as it happens. You may change names, places and details, and you may fictionalise as much as the story needs. Only share what you are comfortable sharing.
Use any writing software, including Word or Google Docs, as long as the layout follows standard screenplay format and the file is exported as a PDF.
Your scene must:
1. Run between 2.5 and 5 pages in standard screenplay format
2. Feature two characters, one of whom is the protagonist
3. Contain no flashbacks, voiceover narration or dream sequences
4. Use sparse, purposeful dialogue
5. End on a visual cliffhanger that leaves a question unanswered
Pages beyond page 5 will not be read.
Complete in the form
SHORT BIO (150 WORDS)
Third person. Your background, achievements and creative identity.
PERSONAL STATEMENT (450 WORDS)
First person.
Your creative cover letter
Begin with a short introduction, write a brief paragraph on each of the four areas below, then end with a short conclusion. Keep paragraphs short and focus on storytelling over technical terms.
1. Personal story. The life experiences that shape what and how you write
2. Inspiration. The films, stories or moments that drew you to screenwriting
3. Collaboration. An example of working with others in a creative setting
4. Goals. How this programme will help your writing aspirations
SCRIPT IDEA
1. Logline (75 WORDS). One or two sentences on the short film you would like to develop.
2. Synopsis (500 WORDS). The beginning, middle and end of your story. Include the ending.
3. Personal Connection (150 WORDS). Why this story matters to you.
AI DISCLOSURE (REQUIRED)
Whether you used AI in any part of your application, and how.
Submit as a link
VIDEO INTRODUCTION (60 SECONDS)
One take, no editing or music. Tell us who you are, where you are from and why you want to join WSF.
Accepted links: Unlisted YouTube or Vimeo, or Google Drive set to “Anyone with the link can view”.
Check it opens without a login, and keep it available until at least a month after applications close.
STEP BY STEP
How to apply
- Click APPLICATION FORM and enter your email address.
- We’ll email you a one-time code. Enter it to continue.
- Answer the eligibility questions, then work through each section. Your progress saves automatically.
- To return later, open the form, enter the same email address and your new code. Choose Resume submission to continue. New submission clears everything you’ve entered.
- When you’re ready, click Submit. Your application only reaches us once you’ve submitted it and seen the confirmation screen.
- Need to change something? Until the closing date, sign in with the same email address, update your answers and submit again.
- Once applications close, your application is final.
AFTER THE DEADLINE
Selection process
MID-OCTOBER
Our panel reviews every complete application received by the deadline. (Scoring breakdown here.)
Writing (80%)
Script assignment and script idea: originality, creativity, clarity and how well you follow the brief
Personal materials (20%)
Personal statement, video, bio and CV: voice, intent and commitment
LATE OCTOBER
Shortlisted applicants are notified by email and will be invited to a short online interview.
EARLY NOVEMBER
Final selections are communicated by email. Every applicant hears back, whether or not they are selected.
Selected applicants will be asked for a certified copy of their ID and supporting documents. Your place is confirmed once your eligibility is verified.