High school filmmakers: Y-CAM 2027 is open for submissions, and it's free to enter.
Y-CAM is the DC Independent Film Festival's two-day festival for young screen artists, now in its 13th year. It screens around 30 films in competition from across the US and abroad, and selected filmmakers are invited to Washington DC for screenings, workshops, a "Meet the University and College Reps" panel, a Media Careers Workshop and a conversation with a working industry guest.
- Festival: March 6–7, 2027, Angelika Pop-Up at Union Market, Washington DC
- Regular deadline: December 17, 2026
- Late deadline: January 6, 2027
- Accepted: fiction, documentary, animation, music videos, art and experimental films up to 20 minutes
- Prizes: $500 / $425 / $350 for fiction, documentary and animation
You must still be in high school (or have finished the film before leaving in 2026), and include your school ID when you submit.
Submit your film on FilmFreeway · RSVP on the StudentFilmmakers Network · y-cam.org
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