The International Audio Drama Competition 2026

Deadline: June 4, 2025

Who may enter

The competition is open to new and established writers, provided they live outside of the UK. Entrants must also be over the age of 18 as of 4 June 2025.

There are two categories for entry:
• one category for entrants who speak English as a first language,
• one category for entrants with English as a second language.

Short description

The competition is hosted by BBC World Service and the British Council.

Entrants should write an audio drama script on any subject.

The drama should have a maximum of six central characters.

All scripts submitted must be approximately 40-50 minutes in length.

The drama script must be written in English.

Entry fee
The competition is free to enter.

Prizes
There are two prizes, one for each category (English as a First Language and English as a Second Language).
Each prize will consist of £2,500.

Winners be invited to attend an award ceremony in the UK in 2026, and to participate in the recording of their dramas for a world premiere on BBC World Service platforms.

 

Newsletter