US Feature Documentary
60+ min
Golden Lens · US-produced or co-produced features.
Call for Entries
Submit Your Film
2026 Edition · Open Worldwide
Review categories, deadlines, and fees below — then open the official entry form to send your screener and film details.
Online Entry Only
Completed documentaries only. Submit through our official entry form with a secure screener link — Vimeo, YouTube (unlisted), or equivalent.
No DVD or physical submissions. All materials are reviewed digitally by our programming team.
Submission Categories
Four official sections · Works completed 2024–2026
US Short Documentary
Under 40 min
Silver Lens · US-produced or co-produced shorts.
International Feature Documentary
60+ min
Golden Lens · Non-US features.
International Short Documentary
Under 40 min
Silver Lens · Non-US shorts.
Competition awards are listed on the program page.
Key Dates
All deadlines 11:59 PM Central Time
Early Bird
March 15, 2026
Lowest fee tier
Regular
April 30, 2026
Recommended deadline
Final
August 31, 2026
Last chance to enter
Submission Fees
USD · Non-refundable · One fee per film
| Category | Early Bird | Regular | Final |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feature Documentary (US or International, 60+ min) | $45 | $55 | $65 |
| Short Documentary (US or International, under 40 min) | $30 | $40 | $50 |
Ready to Submit?
Official Entry Form
Review categories, deadlines, and fees above, then open the entry form to provide your screener link, synopsis, and filmmaker details.
Begin EntryEstimated time: 10–15 minutes · Secure screener link required
Eligibility
- Completed after January 1, 2024
- Documentary or non-fiction in nature
- English subtitles if not in English
- Chicago metro premiere required for competition
- Secure online screener (720p minimum)
Common Questions
How do I submit?
Click Begin Entry on this page to open the official form. Choose your category and deadline tier, provide a screener link, and complete all required fields.
Can I submit more than one film?
Yes — each film needs its own entry and fee.
Are works-in-progress accepted?
Yes, if the final version is ready before October 1, 2026. Note WIP status in your submission.
Student fee waivers?
Email submissions@chicagodocufest.com with proof of enrollment before submitting.
When will I hear back?
Selection notifications go out in late September 2026.