FEATURE FILM DEVELOPMENT STUDIO
JUMP TO: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS | SUPPORTED ARTISTS
Submissions Open Now For 2026!
Early deadline 9/14/2025
Final Deadline 9/24/2025
The Feature Film Development Studio is an intensive, cohort-based incubator program designed to support advanced NYU students and alumni in developing their first feature films with the aim of creating market-ready scripted feature film packages. Over the course of several months, fellows workshop their projects, business plans, and pitch materials with industry guests, under the guidance of the Lab’s Head of Programs and Creative Development Liz Nord and Lab staff.
The ideal Development Studio fellow is community-oriented and eager to expand their knowledge of the industry. They already have a strong script and their project is still in need of further creative development, packaging, and industry guidance before they seek financing. We will pay special attention to storytellers and materials with original ideas, little or no prior industry exposure, and who represent the wide spectrum of emerging talent in the entertainment industry.
Ready to apply? Please note:
- Projects must have both a writer/director and producer attached to qualify for the program, and both individuals must be available to participate in all program activities.
- Fellows must be either NYC-based, or available to cover their own travel to NYC and accommodations for two in-person, weekend-long intensives and a public pitch night.
- Only one project per applicant team will be reviewed – please only submit one project per year.
- Please read the Frequently Asked Questions below before applying.
Feel free to also watch the recording of our recent info session which goes into more detail:
Applications for the 2026 Feature Film Development Studio are now open!
SUBMIT HERE
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I apply?
Please read through these FAQs and then submit your project by clicking the hyperlink above. Note that you will not be able to save your progress or edit this form once submitted, so we recommend drafting your responses in another application before entering them in the form.
After a thorough internal review process conducted by multiple readers, we aim to notify finalists by mid-December and invite them for an interview in early January, 2026.
What materials do I need to apply?
Required application materials include:
- A completed draft of your feature film script (Recommended length between 90-120 pages. We do not accept short film scripts.)
- Project info including: logline, synopsis (750 words max), key team bios, budget estimate, intended production timeline, the status of rights and clearances
- A personal statement (300 words max) of why you’re applying for this program and your connection to the story you’re telling A PDF lookbook document of *no more than ten pages* containing visual references for the film’s intended style. Note: We do not want to see a formal pitch deck. We DO want to get a sense of your directorial vision for the project from a cinematic perspective (optional)
- A link to one relevant short film work that demonstrates your skills and vision for the project—PLEASE provide the password for any password-protected videos (optional)
What are the program dates?
- Monday, July 28, 2025 – Submissions open*
- Thursday, September 4, 2025 – Development Studio Info Session (Zoom – Register here)
- Sunday, September 14, 2025, 11:59 pm ET – Early Submission due date (Free)
- Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 11:59 pm ET – Final Application due date ($45 charge)
- Early-January 2026 – Finalist interviews, Applicant notifications
- February 2026 – Program orientation
- March-May 2026 – Program sessions
- September 2026 – Public pitch night
*Submissions will be free from July 28 – Sep 14. During the final submission period from Sep 15-Sep 26, there will be a $45 charge for submission.
Note that 2026 program dates are subject to change.
Are all genres eligible to apply?
Yes. The only requirement is that your screenplay is for a feature-length fiction film. The recommended length is between 90-120 pages.
Can I apply with a documentary, TV pilot, webseries, game, short film, or VR Idea?
No, at this time the Feature Film Development Studio is accepting scripted feature films only.
Can I apply as an NYU alumni?
Yes, alumni and motivated students from any NYU school or program are welcome to apply. Priority will be given to alumni, grad students, and other students who demonstrate professionalism and a serious interest in pursuing a career in film and bringing their projects to the market.
What if my project doesn’t have a producer?
As of 2024-25, projects are required to have both a writer/director and producer attached to qualify for the program, and both individuals must be available to participate in program activities. We have found each year that participating in the Lab as a team is a stronger experience that yields much better results for the project. It is also an excellent opportunity to test a potential director-producer relationship before further commitments such as going into production.
Can we apply if one of the team members is not an NYU alumni?
The screenwriter/director of the project must be an NYU alumni but you may apply with a producer who is not an NYU alumni.
Do I need to live in New York to apply?
No, you do not need to live in New York. However, you must be able to travel to and secure accommodation at your own expense in New York for the in-person dates.
Can I submit more than one project per year?
No, please submit only one project per year. If you are re-submitting a project from previous years, please ensure that significant changes have been made since your last submission.
Does the Development Studio offer film financing?
The Development Studio does not offer film financing or grants. However, the program is intended to help shape your project materials to attract financiers and other support for your film and the Lab facilitates industry connections for projects when appropriate and possible.
Is there a fee for participation in the Development Studio?
No, the commitment you’re making is with your time and participation. Full participation is expected from all fellows in both in-person and virtual activities.
Further questions can be directed to: devstudio@nyu.edu.