Submissions Checklist

Here are a few things to check before sending us your script. Please also read our FAQ.

Are you only sending one script? We only accept one script at a time from a writer. You should also avoid submitting the same script to other BBC departments and producers at the same time.

Is your script complete? We don't accept part of a script; finishing your work is a skill, and we want to see your idea from start to finish.

Is your work over 30 pages/minutes? We read scripts that are over 30 pages or minutes long. 30 minutes is a fair length of time to assess a writer's work – it's extremely hard to judge a writer's abilities if their work is shorter than this.

Are all of your contact details included? We sometimes receive scripts without any contact details on them – make sure that your contact details are clearly marked on your script. All work should be submitted with a land address, as we aim to return all scripts that we do not develop further within the BBC.

Do you have a copy of your script? Don't send us the only script that you have – make sure that you send a copy to us and keep the original for yourself.

Are you sending us a script? We only deal with completed drama and comedy scripts at the BBC writersroom, and do not accept ideas, short stories, novels, sketches, or poetry.

Is your script formatted correctly? We don't penalise writers for scripts that aren't correctly formatted, but presenting your work appropriately suggests a professional approach and an understanding of the medium and format for which you are writing. You can download our Script Smart software for free, and you can read formatted and produced work in our Script Archive. We do not accept handwritten work. Please only type or print on one side of the paper. You might also want to consider using a dedicated script formatting program.

Are you sending an original script? We prefer to read an original script as a calling card of a writer's talent and potential, although we will accept an adaptation of your own novel. However, we will not read anything that is written in prose, including the original unadapted work, or an adaptation of a novel or short story written by someone else.

Are you happy with the script you're sending in? Many writers rush to send in their script and later realise that there were changes they feel they should have made. There are no deadlines with our unsolicited script system. It's important to take time on your script and only send it in when you feel that it represents the best of your writing abilities.

Please note that once a script has been submitted it cannot be replaced with another draft.

Have you sent your script to anyone else in the BBC? It is unwise to submit unsolicited scripts to more than one BBC department or producer at any one time, since it can mean duplicating assessment work across departments, and can lead to complications further down the line.

Have you sent us this script before? We do not accept resubmissions of work that has already been assessed, even following a rewrite – so make sure it is as good as you can make it before sending it in.

Have you included an SSAE? We try to return all scripts that we don't intend to take any further. You should enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope with your submission, making sure that the envelope is large enough to return your script to you.

For information on specific requirements in submitting work for particular drama and comedy formats, please see the guidelines for submitting scripts to BBC writersroom.