Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival

Organization: Project Chicago, NFP

Quick Answer

Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival is a free arts program run by Project Chicago, NFP for high school students in grades 9–12. It takes place in person. Applications are due July 12, 2027. See the key facts table below for cost, eligibility, and application details, and always confirm specifics on the official program site.

Program Overview

Annual Chicago film festival showcasing independent short films from around the world in a public cinema setting.

The Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival (CIRSF) is an annual film festival dedicated exclusively to short films, typically under 30 minutes in length. Founded in the early 2000s and organized by Project Chicago, NFP, the festival screens a wide range of genres—narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, music video, and more—from independent filmmakers around the world. Screenings are held in Chicago-area cinemas and often include Q&As, awards, and networking opportunities. While not specifically a high school event, motivated high school filmmakers can submit their work as long as they meet the festival’s general submission rules (such as runtime, format, and content guidelines). Participation can offer valuable exposure, a professional festival credit, and the chance to see your work in a real theater alongside other independent films. It can also strengthen college applications and portfolios for students interested in film and media. Submission is usually handled via common festival platforms like FilmFreeway, and there is typically a submission fee, so students should review the current year’s guidelines, deadlines, and costs on the official festival pages.

Program Details

Key facts about Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival
Organizer	Project Chicago, NFP
Category	Arts & Humanities
Format	In-Person
Location	Various locations
Cost	Free
Eligibility	Grades 9–12
Application deadline	July 12, 2027
Country	US
Listing last updated	July 12, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival cost?

Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

What is the application deadline for Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival?

The application deadline is July 12, 2027. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

Who is eligible for Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival?

Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

Is Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival online or in person?

Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival is an in-person program.

How do I apply to Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival?

Apply directly through Project Chicago, NFP's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Visit the official program website: Project Chicago, NFP

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