For Students

Find the story. We'll put it on a screen.

A real award, a real screening, a real room of people watching your work - judged on the work alone.

Three monetary scholarships, presented in person at a reception held in your honor.

Winning films screen in the Monroe Gallery for club members and guests - artists, patrons, and Washington's arts community.

A juried award from the oldest nonprofit arts organization in the nation's capital, founded 1916.

Honest answers

Things students actually ask

I'm not a film major. Can I enter?: Yes. All majors, any accredited college or university in DC, Maryland, or Virginia - including community colleges.
Is my school invited?: Thirty-six DC, Maryland, and Virginia institutions with film or media programs are invited by name - and students from any accredited school in the region are equally welcome.
Does it cost anything?: No. There is no entry fee.
Can I use AI tools?: For assistance, yes; for authorship, no. The policy is short and honest - read it before you shoot.
What length and format?: Minimum 10 minutes including credits, 1080p or better, delivered as a private or unlisted YouTube link.
Who sees my film?: The independent judging panel; winners screen publicly at the club.