There are literally dozens of screenwriting contests that one can enter. Submission fees run from $25.00 to $75.00 each so it pays to be picky. The most popular contests are the most expensive and competitive. They also offer the most exposure. So which are the best contests to enter?

Whether you are an experienced writer or a beginner any contest that offers free or inexpensive professional feedback should be at the top of the list. The Emerging Screenwriters contest offers one submission and full feedback for $99.00. Less than a third of what a consultant would charge. If you are a beginner feedback is invaluable, especially if you are considering entering the more popular contests.

The big three contests are the Nichols Fellowship, Austin Film Festival and the Final Draft Big Break contest. These contests offer substantial cash prizes as well as exposure to top industry professionals. Even if you don’t win, if you are a finalist or semi-finalist in these contests you have a good chance of having your script looked at by an industry professional.

Other contests that offer significant exposure are the BlueCat Screenplay Competition, ISA Fast Track Fellowship, Page International, Script Pipeline and Scriptapalooza. If you are looking for a local contest that offers access to industry professionals check out the Bigfoot Northwest Script Challenge.