The application portal for the BBC World Service and British Council International Audio Drama Competition 2026 is now open for acceptance. This competition is open to writers outside the United Kingdom to tell their stories to the global community via audio dramas. Keep reading as we will be detailing information on how to apply for this competition.
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Categories
The categories accepted for this competition are the English as First Language and English as Second Language categories. This category and the establishment of this competition are run by the BBC World Service and the British Council.
Benefits
Here are the benefits of emerging successful in the BBC World Service and British Council International Audio Drama Competition 2026:
• Winners would be rewarded with a yet-to-be-disclosed cash prize. In addition, they would be opportune to receive an invitation to a UK Award in 2026.
• Successful candidates will also be allowed to participate in the recording of one of the dramas on the BBC World Service platform.
• All airfare and accommodation fees would be covered by the BBC.
• A Special Commendation will be made for the first runner-up to fulfill the requirements of the BBC World Service journalist and writer, late Georgi Markov.
Who Are Eligible?
To apply, applicants must:
• Be over 18 years of age as of June 2025.
• Not be a resident in the UK.
• Professional writers are writers who have previously submitted applicants are encouraged to apply.
• Not be connected to either BBC Group, BBC, British Council Employees, or anybody connected to the BBC competition.
• A proof of age and identity documents may be required.
• Should write a script of forty to fifty minutes in length on any subject of their choice. (PDF format)
Other Documents
These are other documents that may be required on the application:
• A written synopsis that showcases that highlights the complete story of your audio drama. It shouldn’t be more than 400 words and should be submitted in a PDF file.
How To Apply
Complete the application form using this page.
Deadline: June 4, 2025.
