Want to go to Cannes? It can be tough to make it to the Croisette unless you’re a film industry insider. But here’s one way you can make it happen.
The American Pavilion (AmPav) has been the premier hub for American film professionals and students at Cannes since 1989, facilitating connections between aspiring creatives and the global film industry. And this year, AmPav is partnering with IndieWire’s Future of Filmmaking to give you a full scholarship to its Cannes Student Program.
While the Cannes program is designed for students, you don’t have to be a student to participate. Learn more here — and in addition to Cannes, AmPav also takes students to SXSW in Austin and London and the Venice Film Festival.
More contest details here.
The Cannes Student Program is the ultimate immersion in all that’s happening on the Croisette each May: It’s an all-access pass to panels, workshops, and networking opportunities with actual film industry professionals for you to get hands-on experience and make the professional connections you need to get your career in film off the ground. Follow American Pavilion on Instagram.
How can you win a full scholarship?
The “Lights! Cannes! Action!” contest invites you to create an Instagram reel detailing how the Cannes Student Program could influence your life. Or, if you’re already an alum of the program and want to go again, the reel should show how the Cannes Student Program did impact your life. Here’s what you need:
Contest Details
Categories:
Cannes Alumni: Share how the program influenced your life.
Cannes First-Timer: Share how the experience could impact you.
Prizes:
1st Prize: Full scholarship to the 2026 Cannes Student Program.
2nd Prize: 50% scholarship.
(Scholarships include housing, daily breakfast, ground transport, and festival accreditation. Travel and meals beyond breakfast are not included.)
How to Enter:
1. Create a creative Instagram reel (3 minutes max)
2. Follow and tag @americanpavilion in your post
3. Use the hashtags #AmPav #IWFutureOfFilmmaking #Cannes2026 #CannesFilmFestival
4. Ensure your account is public during the judging period
Key Dates:
Submission Deadline: November 25, 2025, by 11:59 PM PST.
Winners Announced: December 10, 2025
Eligibility:
Open to AmPav alumni and anyone interested in attending Cannes.
Participants must be 18+ by May 2026.
Reels will be judged on creativity by a jury of industry professionals. Winners will be notified via Instagram and their reels will be showcased on AmPav’s platforms. This contest is not affiliated with Instagram. Full rules, terms, and conditions apply.
Learn more about how to enter to win here.