The Veterans Writing Project
The mission of the Writers Guild Foundation’s Veterans Writing Project is to identify emerging writers from United States military backgrounds and provide them with the tools and insights to nurture their passion for writing and successfully navigate the entertainment industry.
We do this in three phases over an eight to nine month period: A weekend-long retreat, weekly Basic Course, and monthly follow-up workshops and special events. Each military veteran is matched with WGA members. Our writer-mentors represent some of the most beloved movies and television series of the past and present, and are committed to guiding the voices of the future.
Upon completion of the program, qualified participants will have the opportunity to pitch their finished screenplay to leading industry executives, managers, agents, and showrunners.
Interested in receiving updates about the program? Subscribe to our email list here or sign up using the button below.
Applications ARE CLOSED
The application period for the 2024-25 cycle closed on February 12, 2024. Please check back later for information on our next submission period or subscribe to our mailing list for updates.
About the Program
Over the course of several months, program participants develop one complete TV pilot or feature script under the guidance of their mentors, all of whom are working writers. Upon admission, each participant is placed in a small breakout group comprised of 4-6 fellow mentees and 2-3 mentors who share their format and genre preferences.
The program is heavily focused on the process of writing a script.
By addressing both the fundamentals of writing for the screen and providing an overview of the business, we hope to provide each graduate with a comprehensive understanding of the craft and industry at large.
THE BASICS
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The 2024-25 program begins in June.
Following a kickoff weekend retreat, we host a 10-week “Basic Course,” during which we review the fundamentals of writing for the screen.
Ongoing mentorship workshops and networking events will continue on a monthly basis, typically on Tuesdays from 7-10pm PT.
The program is approximately 8-9 months overall.
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All sessions typically take place at the WGF’s Shavelson-Webb Library in Los Angeles, CA.
Current sessions are hosted online via Zoom with some in-person events.
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The program is free thanks to our generous donors.
Please note, those from outside the Los Angeles area are expected to cover their own transportation and lodging costs.
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We can accommodate approximately 45-50 writers.
ELIGIBILITY
We encourage U.S. military veterans and military service members who are interested in the craft and business of screenwriting and storytelling to apply. Applicants must be 21+ years old and a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
See our application guidelines for more info on eligibility.
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Some form of writing experience, personal or professional, is required. Script writing experience is strongly encouraged even if an applicant is self-taught.
It is most important, however, that applicants show a passion for the craft and business of writing and a commitment to completing one screenplay or TV pilot during the program.
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Unfortunately, alumni are not permitted to reapply to the program. Participants are limited to one cycle.
HOW TO APPLY
Submissions for the 2024-25 cycle closed on February 12, 2024. All applicants will receive a response about their submission no later than May 10, 2024.
For more information about the application process, please visit this page.
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If you intend to apply, please be ready to share the following information:
A writing sample (preferably a script)
Sample loglines/story ideas
Essay question responses (150-250 words each)
A personal statement (500 words max)
A copy of your DD214 with your Social Security number redacted
Your resume
Review our application guidelines for more info on these requirements.
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WGF staff and/or admissions committee members may reach out to select applicants for a phone or Zoom interview. This is not guaranteed.
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Each application undergoes an intensive review process by several members of our admissions committee. The committee is comprised of writers and showrunners, most of whom serve as mentors in the program.
Questions about the application process? Check out the application guidelines page or email us with specific inquiries.
WGF hosted an info session about the 2024-25 Veterans Writing Project on January 8, 2024. Watch a recording of this session to learn more.
VOLUNTEERs
If you are a WGA member and you are interested in mentoring, please contact us at vets@wgfoundation.org. And please consider making a tax-deductible donation here.
If you are not a WGA member or a veteran, we appreciate your interest in supporting the program. Our volunteer needs are currently met, but you may email Kira at vets@wgfoundation.org for more information on how to give your time to the Veterans Writing Project. And please consider making a tax-deductible donation here.
