APPLY NOW

AFI is thrilled to announce the AFI DWW+ program is now accepting applications for the Class of 2028. Now in its 52nd year, AFI DWW+ is a tuition-free year-long directing workshop that educates emerging narrative filmmakers through the production cycle of a short film, providing hands-on instruction led by industry experts. As one of the longest-running and preeminent film and television workshops nationwide, DWW+ has trained nearly 350 filmmakers and industry trailblazers, including Maya Angelou, Anne Bancroft, Hanelle M. Culpepper, Tessa Blake, Ellen Burstyn, Dyan Cannon, Lesli Linka Glatter, Lee Grant, Siân Heder, Margot Kidder, Jessie Maple, Gandja Monteiro and Cicely Tyson.

“For over 50 years, AFI DWW+ has existed to meet the moment – and this year is no different,” said Susan Ruskin, Dean and Executive Vice President, American Film Institute. “We invite filmmakers who are ready to be challenged, and to be surrounded by a community as committed to their vision as they are – built to champion the bold storytelling the world needs right now.”

The program is open to all and accepts up to eight filmmakers who demonstrate a passion for visual storytelling, the tenacity to pursue a directorial career and a willingness to learn and grow, among other program requirements. DWW+ is taught by film and television professionals working at top levels within the industry, as well as experienced Faculty from the AFI Conservatory. At the culmination of the workshop, participants premiere their short films at the DWW+ Showcase in front of a wide network of industry professionals to celebrate their progress as artists.

The application period for the Class of 2028 opens today, July 13 and closes Wednesday, September 9, 2026. More information about the application process and eligibility requirements can be found on https://conservatory.afi.com/dww-how-to-apply/.

This year’s AFI DWW+ program is generously supported by the Walt Disney Company, Paramount Pictures, NBCUniversal and the Golden Globe Foundation.

AFI DWW+ is part of the AFI Conservatory’s Department of Innovative Programs, which serves an inclusive community of aspiring visual storytellers to cultivate cutting-edge technological and media-making skills, bridging access to professional networks and place participants on an upward career trajectory.

Learn more at Conservatory.AFI.com/Innovative-Programs/.