Writers’ Access Support Staff Training Program

Application Guidelines

The Writers’ Access Support Staff Training Program is a first-of-its-kind initiative dedicated to advancing the inclusion and employment of underrepresented writers in the television industry.

Over the course of 12 weeks, participants receive intensive instruction and training on the roles of a writers’ assistant and script coordinator. Led by experienced industry professionals, our curriculum provides a comprehensive and hands-on exploration of the skills, tools, and responsibilities required for these vital positions.

By the end of the program, participants will leave with a working knowledge of writers' room dynamics and crucial connections to access potential employment opportunities.

Applications Are Open!

Apply to the 2026 Writers’ Access Support Staff Training Program! Before you begin, please review the eligibility requirements and FAQs listed below.

The application deadline is Tuesday, September 16 at 11:59 PM PT.

Click the button below to get started on Submittable. You may save your progress and return to it at any point before the deadline. Late submissions will not be reviewed or considered.

Timeline

Applications for the 2026 Writers’ Access Support Staff Training Program opened at 11:00 AM PT on August 7. and are due at 11:59 PM PT on September 16. See below for a complete timeline.

  • August 7, 2025 — Applications open at 11:00 AM PT

  • September 16, 2025 — Applications close at 11:59 PM PT

  • September–November 2025 — Application review period

  • December 5, 2025 — Admissions results shared with applicants via email

The 3-month course will take place between January and April/May 2026.

Eligibility

This program is designed to support the inclusion and employment of writers from groups that have been historically underrepresented in the television industry. Writers who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled, and/or over the age of 50 are strongly encouraged to apply.

To qualify for this program, applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Be eligible to work in the United States

  • Demonstrate meaningful, ongoing efforts to break into professional television writing

  • Show a clear interest in pursuing employment in a support staff role (e.g., Writers’ Assistant or Script Coordinator)

  • Be available to attend all program sessions during the 12-week course

  • Maintain an inclusive, respectful attitude toward fellow participants, mentors, and staff

WGF maintains a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination based on race, religion, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, or national origin. Any violation of this policy will result in immediate disqualification from the program or admissions process at the discretion of WGF staff.

Please note: This is not a writing fellowship. The program is focused on training for support staff roles in writers’ rooms. Applicants must be genuinely interested in pursuing employment as a Writers’ Assistant or Script Coordinator.

  • No, applicants are not required to live in Los Angeles.

    However, LA-based applicants will receive priority during the admissions process.

    A maximum of 10% of the overall class will be reserved for participants who live outside the LA area.

  • No, professional writing experience is not required.

    However, we do expect that all applicants are well-versed in the fundamentals of writing for the screen prior to their participation in the program.

    As previously stated, this program is not a writing fellowship. It is a professional training program that focuses specifically on support staff roles.

  • Yes, former Writers' PAs and Showrunner's Assistants are eligible for the program.

  • No, this program is reserved for applicants who have not previously worked as a WA or SC in a writers' room.

  • This eligibility requirement has a broad range of definitions. Some examples from previous applications include:

    • Moving to Los Angeles to pursue TV writing as a career

    • Participating in writing groups or workshops

    • Applying to programs, labs, or fellowships focused on TV writing

    • Entering and placing in reputable writing contests or fellowships

    • Attending screenwriting courses (formal or informal)

    • Interning or working at production companies, agencies, or other entities within the entertainment industry

    • Building relationships with working writers, reps, or other industry professionals

    • Creating and producing short films, web series, podcasts, or other written work

    • Consistently reading and writing scripts

Application Requirements

Applicants must include the following materials with their submission:

  • Summary of past writing experience or any relevant formal education

  • Preferred genres and a brief overview of creative influences

  • Responses to 2-3 essay questions (100 words)

  • Personal statement (400 words)

  • Professional résumé

Applications are collected via Submittable.

Important Note: The use of AI tools to generate or edit application materials is strictly prohibited. Submissions are subject to AI detection review. Applicants who violate this policy will be disqualified from consideration.

For more information about each requirement, please refer to the FAQs below.

  • Your choice of genre will influence your area of focus through the program and subsequent hiring outreach upon graduation. If you share equal interest in multiple genres, please make a note of this on your application.

  • Your personal statement should describe who you are, your interest in writing for the screen, and what you hope to gain from this program. We encourage you to describe how your identity, experiences, culture, or background informs your writing.  

    Statements are limited to a maximum of 400 words.

  • The personal statement is a key component of the admissions process. This is your opportunity to convey who you are as a writer and what makes you unique.  

    Why have you chosen this path? What challenges have you overcome to get here? Who inspired you? Consider these prompts as you start writing.

    Authenticity is strongly encouraged.  

  • No, you may submit a standard resume for this program. Previous professional writing experience is not required.  

Info Session

WGF hosted an info session for prospective applicants to the 2026 Writers' Access Support Staff Training Program. Watch the event recording to learn more about the program’s purpose, structure, admissions process, and tips for crafting a strong application.

Questions?

If your inquiry is not addressed above, please email programs@wgfoundation.org. Responses may be delayed due to our staff’s limited capacity.