Screenwriting : Screenwriting contests... by Felix Agyeman Boahen

Nick is right. I've placed in many contests and won a few. And I can tell you that you must have a compelling story, with killer dialogue, and on point descriptions. These are the main three things that most contests look for. If your script is full of spelling errors and bad sentences, or just a rehash of something you've already seen, you don't have much of a chance. Its best to get feedback from another writer who is willing to give you an honest opinion and see if they like it.

The Nicholl has a list of criteria on their website. You can Google it.

Thanks much, guys...

I just want to second (third?) what both Nick & Anthony have already said. Often, too, it's a question of how much the script meets the criteria of whatever that specific contest/the brand of the company sponsoring the contest is looking for. Like, let's say that it's a contest searching for the next great rom-com, and there's this GREAT fresh script with this amazing story, these super compelling characters, witty witty dialogue, etc...and it ends on a bittersweet note. It's the most original thing anyone's ever seen and it's brilliant, but! Because the company sponsoring the competition wants a truly happy ending, the piece can't win. It's like when you're an actor, walking into a room and giving the best read anyone's seen all day, but ultimately, being too young/old/short/whatever to land the role. It's always a crapshoot in that regard. But! I definitely think that it's a chance worth taking.

Well Angela, you're right... But a contest that gives a chance to all kind of genre shouldn't be seeking a single in mind...

If there's a specific genre in need, they should let us know. Like stage32 always do.