US Lab- FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions – US

The Application

How do I apply?

What are the submission period and fees?

What information will I need for the application?

Why must I register my script for copyright before applying?

How many scripts can I apply with?

Can writing partners apply?

What if I can’t pay by credit card?

What if I can’t afford the application fee?

Is it possible to submit an updated draft after I’ve applied?

What if I can’t submit online? Can I deliver my application in person?

Is it true that when you enter a contest late, your script doesn’t have a chance?

Why do you charge an application fee?

Are there additional fees associated with attending the Lab Retreat?

Should I have industry contacts call or e-mail with references?

How will I be notified about acceptance?

I haven’t recieved notification about my acceptance, but I know others who have? Why is that?

Eligibility

Am I eligible to apply?

Why does the application ask for my birthday?

I am an American living abroad. Am I eligible to apply?

I am not a U.S. citizen and/or live outside the U.S. Am I eligible to apply?

I live in a British Commonwealth country. Should I apply to the U.S. or the UK & I Lab?

Do I need to provide proof of birthdate, passport or visa with my application?

I don’t have much experience. Does this affect my chances for acceptance?

The Script

Am I required to submit a full pilot or feature script/screenplay?

Is there a correct length for a script?

Are there any requirements regarding the software I use to write?

What file formats can i use to submit my script?

Will you consider scripts not written in English?

Can I reapply with the same script as last year?

Can i submit a script based on a book or an adaptation?

Can I submit a treatment if i don’t think I’ll have a completed draft by the deadline?

What does The Writers Lab consider complete?

Will my ideas be protected?

Do you accept scripts that have been submitted elsewhere?

The Lab Retreat

Who will attend the retreat?

What happens at the retreat?

What kind of production support does the Lab offer?

If my script is good enough to be accepted why do I need to develop it further?

Does the Lab offer any follow-up for writers beyond the Retreat?

The Submissions & Selection Process

Who will be reading my script?

How does the reading and selection process work?

What are some of the questions readers must answer?

When and How are writers notified?

What are a few script submission statistics?

Top Reason Your Script Was Not Selected

Weak protagonist engine and arc

Poor or confusing world-building

Poor or confusing story set-up

Script is overwritten

Excessive and/or ineffective dialogue

Ineffective description

Concept is overdone or lacks relevance.

Uncinematic storytelling

Poor or clichéd gender representation

Typos, spelling and/or formatting errors

Data Use and Privacy Policy

What is The Writers Lab’s U.S. data use and privacy policy?

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