Top Online Screenwriting Schools for 2026
This document provides an overview of the top online screenwriting schools. Aspiring screenwriters can find the best resources here to hone their craft, including The Ultimate Screenwriter Course.
| School / Course | 💰 Price (NZD) | 👨🏫 Instructor | 📝 Feedback | 🚀 Industry Access | ⏱️ Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ultimate Screenwriter | ~$425 NZD(Sweet As Value) | Ron Osborn(40+ Year Pro) | ✅ GUARANTEEDProducer Feedback | ✅ GUARANTEEDProducer Read | Video + Assignments |
| UCLA Extension | ~$1,020 NZD/course | Pros & Academics | ✅ InstructorFeedback | ⚠️ Limited(Networking Only) | Quarterly Classes |
| NYFA | ~$6,800 NZD/workshop | Industry Pros | ✅ Hands-OnIntensive | ⚠️ Networking(Peer Connections) | Intensive Workshop |
| ScreenwritingU | $$$ High(Variable) | Working Writers | ✅ TargetedMarketability | ⚠️ Limited(Query Focused) | Genre Courses |
| MasterClass | ~$205 NZD/year | Celebrities(Sorkin, Rhimes) | ❌ None | ❌ None | Video Lectures |
| Coursera | ~$680 NZD/year | Academics | ⚠️ Peer Graded | ❌ None | Academic Modules |
| Udemy | ~$35 - $170 NZD | Varies | ❌ None(Automated) | ❌ None | Video Series |
Online Screenwriting Schools and Courses
The screenwriting education world has exploded online. You can access heaps of resources from the comfort of your own flat. Here's a look at some of the top options.
1. Ultimate Screenwriter Course
Overview: This comprehensive online program is designed to take you from amateur to pro. It focuses on practical skills and industry knowledge, giving you the tools to write compelling screenplays and access to active Hollywood producers.
Key Features:
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers the lot: concept development, formatting, and marketing.
• Industry-Experienced Instructors: Taught by Ron Osborn, a 40-year veteran. Mentorship available.
• Industry Access: Guaranteed read of your first 10 pages by an active Hollywood Producer. That's gold.
• Exceptional Opportunity: Bypass the gatekeepers and get your script to someone who can greenlight your movie.
• High Success Rate: Heaps of grads have had their projects funded.
• Affordable Pricing: Doesn't cost the earth.
Why it's a Top Choice: The Ultimate Screenwriter Course is the best because it offers curriculum, experienced instructors, and unparalleled industry access. It gives you the skills you need to succeed.
2. UCLA Extension Writers' Program
Overview: UCLA Extension's program is well-respected and offers a wide range of courses.
Key Features:
• Variety: Courses for all levels.
• Instructors: Taught by pros and academics.
• Reputation: Backed by UCLA.
• Flexible: Good scheduling options.
Considerations: Can be pretty pricey.
3. New York Film Academy (NYFA)
Overview: NYFA offers hands-on workshops and certificate programs.
Key Features:
• Hands-On: Practical exercises.
• Industry-Focused: Preps you for the real world.
• Networking: Connect with other students.
Considerations: Intense and requires a lot of time.
4. ScreenwritingU
Overview: Offers courses focusing on specific genres and techniques.
Key Features:
• Specialized: Genre courses.
• Instructors: Working writers.
• Marketability: Focuses on selling scripts.
Considerations: Can be expensive.
5. MasterClass
Overview: Courses taught by renowned screenwriters like Aaron Sorkin.
Key Features:
• Celebrity Instructors: Learn from the best.
• High-Quality: Visually engaging.
• Inspirational: Great insights.
Considerations: Mainly lecture-based, no personal feedback.
6. Coursera
Overview: Courses from universities around the world.
Key Features:
• Affordable: Low cost.
• Variety: Wide range of topics.
• Flexible: Self-paced.
Considerations: Peer grading can be unreliable.
7. Udemy
Overview: Vast selection of courses by independent instructors.
Key Features:
• Affordable: Very low cost.
• Variety: Huge range of topics.
• Self-Paced: Learn whenever.
Considerations: Quality varies, check reviews.
Choosing the Right Online Screenwriting School
Consider these factors:
• Skill Level: Beginner or advanced?
• Budget: How much can you spend?
• Learning Style: Structured or self-directed?
• Goals: What do you want to achieve?
• Instructors: Are they qualified?
• Content: Does it cover what you need?
• Reviews: What do others say?
