Palm Springs International ShortFest Curator Fellowship

Applications for 2026 are now closed.

Palm Springs International Film Society invites young adults (ages 18–25) to apply for an immersive, behind-the-scenes fellowship with ShortFest. This dynamic program offers hands-on experience in festival programming, curatorial practice, and media literacy, while introducing participants to career pathways in the arts and entertainment industries.

Fellows will collaborate closely with the Festival’s Programming Team, gaining insight into how films are curated and presented, while building meaningful connections with industry professionals and developing a deeper understanding of the film festival landscape.

Fellowship Activities Include:

Screening 5 - 10 short films per week and submitting written evaluations based on Festival criteria.
Participating in programming meetings and review sessions with the Festival team.
Assisting with research on films under consideration.
Writing and contributing to the Festival guide, website, and promotional materials.
Attending the 2026 ShortFest (June 23rd - 29th, 2026)!

Through this fellowship, participants will cultivate a strong curatorial perspective, sharpen their critical writing skills, and learn how to thoughtfully connect films with audiences. Fellows also gain practical knowledge of festival operations and the collaborative process behind presenting an international film event.

Eligibility & Requirements:

Must be between the ages of 18 - 25 during the period of March 1, 2026 and July 1, 2026, and a high school graduate at the time of application.
Must reside in Coachella Valley, Morongo Valley, Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, or Twentynine Palms.
Commit to weekly one-hour remote check-ins (via Zoom) with the Programming Team from April 1 through April 30, 2026.

This fellowship is ideal for emerging film lovers eager to build their voice, expand their networks, and gain meaningful, real-world experience in festival programming.

Program Timeline:

February 27, 2026: Applications Open

March 19, 2026: Applications Closed at 11:59PM PST

April 1, 2026: Program Commences

April 1 - April 30, 2026: Review 5-10 Short Films per week, and participate in Weekly Remote Check-In and Informational Sessions

May 2026: Remote Learning Opportunities with industry professionals

June 23 - June 29, 2026: Participate in and enjoy ShortFest 2026!

Applications will open on February 27, 2026 and close 11:59PM PST on March 19, 2026.

The program will commence in April and run through ShortFest (June 23rd - 29th).

3 - 4 Curator Fellows will be accepted.

For any questions, please email Natali Hopkins, Educational Programs Manager, at natali@psfilmfest.org