Question 1

Who can apply?

Accepted Answer

Anyone over 18 who has a completed pilot that falls within our guidelines is eligible to apply. For guidlines, see "what kind of pilot script are you looking for?".

Question 2

Does it matter where I live?

Accepted Answer

This program takes place virtually and is open to anyone no matter where they reside. The hours of the program are based on U.S. time zones, and you must be able to attend all events.

Question 3

What kind of pilot script are you looking for?

Accepted Answer

We are looking for completed, scripted, live-action pilot scripts in any genre. No documentaries, specs, films, short films, partial drafts, web series, or animated series will be accepted. All submissions must be in English.

Question 4

Can writing partners submit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, writing partners can submit. If accepted, both writers must attend all events.

Question 5

How long or short should my pilot be?

Accepted Answer

Many studios and production companies are looking for half-hour comedies and/or hour-long dramas, but there aren’t any hard-and-fast rules. In terms of script length, generally, one page equals one minute of screen time. However, your pilot script may end up longer as some pilots contain more description than the average script to set the scene.

Question 6

May I submit more than one pilot script?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each submission must be in a separate application with its own application fee.

Question 7

I have a fully produced pilot episode that I’m trying to sell. Can I submit that in lieu of a script?

Accepted Answer

We are only looking for TV pilot scripts, not produced episodes.

Question 8

What am I required to submit on my FilmFreeway application?

Accepted Answer

Before you begin applying, you’ll need to create a FilmFreeway account. Under “My Projects,” click “Add Project” and upload your full pilot script as a PDF. Within that project profile, make sure to add your writer bio and your website. If there are two writers, please add both bios.
Then, when you click “Submit Now” on WWFC’s Pilot Accelerator application page, you will be asked to select which project you are applying with. You will also need to answer a few brief questions to complete your application.

Question 9

Who will be reading my script?

Accepted Answer

All applications will be reviewed by the WWFC team and our readers. Semi-finalists’ scripts will be read by industry judges listed on the website, many of whom are looking to hire and refer writers to rooms in the future. Those judges will help our team select finalists to interview. We will choose 6 to 8 fellows out of those finalists.

Question 10

Is there any way to receive notes or feedback on my submission?

Accepted Answer

No. Unfortunately, due to a high volume of submissions, our team is unable to provide any sort of notes, feedback or critique on any submission.

Question 11

Can I resubmit a script?

Accepted Answer

While chances are high that your submission will be reviewed by different readers for each pilot accelerator, we suggest that you only resubmit a pilot script if you've made significant revisions.

Question 12

Can I edit my application after I submit it?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately, it won't be possible to edit your application after submitting it, as we assess our applications in batches. It's possible that your application will be reviewed right after you submit it, so you should make sure you’re happy with it when you hit submit.

Question 13

Will I be required to submit additional materials if I'm selected as a quarter-finalist?

Accepted Answer

Quarter-finalists will be asked to send in a 2-minute video toward the end of January. It will be a quick turnaround; you will have only a few days to send in the video if selected as a quarter-finalists. In the video, we will ask you to speak into the camera as if you’re in a Zoom meeting and:
Tell us about your show
Tell us about you: What are you most interested in as a writer? What do you want to get out of the program?
All quarter-finalists will be given further instructions about the video when they are notified.

Question 14

Am I required to submit any further materials if I make it to the semi-final or final rounds?

Accepted Answer

No, but we will reach out to the final contenders to schedule short interviews via video call before selecting the fellows.

Question 15

If I’m a semi-finalist, will you let me know which industry judges have read my pilot?

Accepted Answer

No, we are not able to share which judges have read which projects. At the semi-finalist level, each script will be read by two industry judges.

Question 16

I would love to contact one of the judges or readers. Can you connect me with them?

Accepted Answer

As a policy, we will not share contact information of our judges or readers, nor can we connect applicants with them or pass along any messages on applicants’ behalf. Please do not contact any of our judges or readers about your application.

Question 17

Can I apply if I already have representation (agent, manager, publicist)?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

Question 18

I submitted for this program, but now my schedule conflicts with the program dates. What should I do?"

Accepted Answer

Please let us know if you are no longer able to be present for all program dates, as we want to ensure that we are advancing the applications of only those who could participate if selected. You will be much more likely to advance through our future programs if you notify us of any conflicts that will prohibit you from fully participating in this program.

Question 19

How and when will I be notified of my acceptance? Will I be notified if I’m not accepted?

Accepted Answer

You will be notified via email through FilmFreeway of any changes to your status (if your application has been rejected or if you have moved to the next round).

If you are a quarter-finalist, you will be notified by the end of January 2023, and you will be required to submit a two-minute video. Instructions for the video will be provided to quarter-finalists at the time of notification, and there will be a tight turnaround (less than a week) for submitting  the video.

If you are a semi-finalist, your script will be read by industry judges. You will be notified through FilmFreeway in February 2023 if you are a semi-finalist.

The next level is finalist. If you make it to the finalist round, you will be notified via email through FilmFreeway in early March and will have to respond within 24 hours to choose a Zoom interview date between March 7-10.

The fellows, those who will attend our three-week program and pitch to studio executives, will be announced in mid-March. The fellows will be notified at least one day before the public announcement so that they can officially accept the fellowship, confirm that they will be in attendance for all program dates, and sign the participant contract.

Frequently Asked Questions