The Veterans Writing Project
A yearlong mentorship program serving emerging writers with U.S. military backgrounds.
Applications Open December 17
The 2026–27 application window opens on Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00pm PT.
Please return to this page for the application link. In the meantime, you can visit our application guidelines page to learn more about the program and the application process.
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? Click here to subscribe to the VWP email list.
Program Overview
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.
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Each cycle begins in June and lasts approximately 8-9 months.
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.
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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 30-40 writers at this time.
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.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet all of the following eligibility criteria:
Be a veteran of the United States military.
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Be at least 21 years old.
Demonstrate a clear interest in writing for film and television.
Possess knowledge of the fundamentals of screenwriting and have some scriptwriting experience, personal or professional.
Commit to completing one full screenplay or TV pilot during the program.
Be available to participate in all program meetings and to fulfill all program requirements.
Be open to constructive feedback and maintain a respectful, professional attitude toward fellow participants and mentors.
Restrictions & Exclusions
We do not accept applicants who wish to develop a pre-existing idea or project. Because the program focuses on the writing process, all participants are required to begin with a new concept and develop it from concept to completion.
Veterans who have previously participated in the program (2015 or later) are not eligible to return. However, prior applicants who were not accepted are encouraged to apply again.
See our application guidelines for more information.
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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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Yes, writing partners are permitted to apply. Each partner must submit an individual application and identify their writing partner when prompted.
Non-veterans may apply only if their writing partner meets all eligibility requirements.
Applications from writing partners are evaluated independently, and a team will be admitted only if both applicants demonstrate sufficient skill and proficiency to be selected.
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Generally, alumni are not permitted to reapply to the program. Exemptions include alumni who participated in the program prior to the inclusion of the extended yearlong course (2014 or earlier) or those who exclusively participated in the Weekend Retreat.
How to Apply
The application window for the 2026–27 cycle opens on Wednesday, December 17 at 12:00pm PT. All applications will be collected via Submittable
Here’s a complete overview of the timeline:
December 10, 2025 — Info Session
December 17, 2025 — Applications Open
January 13, 2026 — Early Bird Application Deadline
February 3, 2026 — Standard Application Deadline
April 20, 2026 — Admissions Decisions Announced
The program will kick off at our annual Weekend Retreat in June 2026 and continue through March 2027.
Visit our application guidelines page for a detailed overview of the admissions process and answers to frequently asked questions.
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If you intend to apply, please be ready to share the following information:
A writing sample (TV pilot, feature, short film, spec scripts strongly preferred)
Three original story ideas, formatted as loglines
A personal statement (400 words)
A copy of your DD214 with your Social Security number redacted
Your resume
All applicants must create an account via Submittable.
Review our application guidelines for more info on these requirements.
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Applications submitted by January 13 at 11:59 PM PT will be categorized as Early Bird submissions.
Early Bird applicants will receive:
Special recognition of their Early Bird status on their application.
Early review by our admissions committee.
A smaller pool of competing candidates in the first round.
Peace of mind knowing your application is complete
If you’re unable to submit by January 13, the Standard Application Deadline is February 3 at 11:59pm PT. Late submissions will not be accepted or considered.
Please note: All admission decisions will be released on the same date, regardless of when you apply.
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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.
Info Session
WGF hosted a live info session for prospective applicants on Wednesday, December 10. A link to view the recording will be posted on our website soon.
Get Involved
If you are a WGA member and you are interested in mentoring, please contact us at programs@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 programs@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.
Click here to learn more about other ways to support our work.
