Film

Film is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline encompasses narrative, documentary, experimental, and animation filmmaking. 

Competition Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be able to answer ”Yes“ to these statements:

  • I am either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or I can demonstrate that I am legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.  
  • I am in grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year I am applying. 
  • If I’m selected as an award winner with distinction, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.

Application Requirements

These requirements are for a past application cycle and are for reference only. Requirements will be updated for the 2028 cycle, which opens in Summer 2027.

The 2028 YoungArts application opens in Summer 2027.

Resources

Tips from Panelists

Holis Meminger, Film National Selection Panel Chair

Select Films from Winners

Kai Tomizawa

Dusan Brown

Delana Lewis

Henry Spritz

Kayla Briët

See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application.

Every cliché thing people said is, indeed, true. I feel like I know my YoungArts friends more than any of my friends at home—even though it’s only been a week.“

— Thomas Kim (2019 Film)