# How long is a screenplay? Page counts by format

**Quick answer:** Screenplay length depends on the format and submission guidelines. Use page counts to estimate running time, not to measure it.

Source: https://scriptsolo.com/blog/how-long-is-a-screenplay/ · Scriptsolo · Updated 2026-11-01

A feature screenplay commonly runs about 90 to 120 pages; short films depend on running time, while television requirements vary by platform.

**Screenplay page counts by format**

| Format | Page-count guidance | What to check |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Feature film | Commonly about 90 to 120 pages | The submission guidelines, if you plan to submit. |
| Short film | Commonly estimated at roughly one page per minute | The Academy's short-film definition allows 40 minutes or less, including credits. This is not a script page limit. |
| Television drama | It varies by platform; check the guidelines. | The requirements for your intended submission. |
| Television comedy | It varies by platform; check the guidelines. | The requirements for your intended submission. |

Use the [screenplay format guide](https://scriptsolo.com/guides/screenplay-format/) to check your layout before judging length. Check [margins, font, and page size](https://scriptsolo.com/blog/screenplay-margins-font-page-size/), and use the [scene heading examples](https://scriptsolo.com/blog/what-is-a-slugline/) to check how you mark each scene.

**Page count** (also called Script page count): Page count is the number of pages in a script. It commonly serves as a rough guide to running time.

## How do you estimate a screenplay's running time?

A screenplay page is commonly estimated at about one minute of screen time. This is a rule of thumb, not a measurement. A dinner scene can describe a long silence in a short line. When estimating that scene's length, allow time for the silence to play.

## How long is a microdrama episode?

Scriptsolo's guidance suggests microdrama episodes of 1 to 3 minutes. Its feature guidance targets 90 to 120 pages. Treat these as format guidance, not submission requirements.

For an episode about a roommate leaving, focus on the discovery of packed bags. Save the argument about unpaid rent for another episode if it needs more room.

## What if your script is too long or too short?

Revise what happens in the story before adjusting the layout. If roommates repeat the same rent argument without changing their decisions, consider cutting the repetition. If their reconciliation feels abrupt, show the choice that earns it.

**Review your screenplay's length**

1. **Check the requirements.** Read the intended recipient's current guidelines before treating a common range as a limit.
2. **Mark repeated material.** Look for scenes that repeat information or decisions without changing the situation.
3. **Write missing choices.** Add what the audience needs to understand a decision, rather than adding pages to reach a target.

**Sources**

- [Final Draft blog (how long a movie script should be)](https://www.finaldraft.com/blog/how-long-should-my-movie-script-be) (checked October 2026)
- [Final Draft help center (the general rule in timing a script)](https://kb.finaldraft.com/hc/en-us/articles/15574991492628-What-is-the-general-rule-in-timing-a-script) (checked October 2026)
- [Academy Awards rules (98th Academy Awards, short film definition)](https://www.oscars.org/sites/oscars/files/2025-04/98th_aa_complete_rules.pdf) (checked October 2026)
- [Academy Nicholl Fellowships 2026-2027 rules](https://www.oscars.org/sites/oscars/files/2026-06/2026-2027%20Nicholl%20Rules%20Terms%20and%20Conditions%20(1).pdf) (checked October 2026)
- [Academy Nicholl Fellowships FAQ](https://www.oscars.org/sites/oscars/files/2024_nicholl_faq.pdf) (checked October 2026)

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## Frequently asked questions

### Is one page really one minute?

A screenplay page is commonly estimated at about one minute, but this is a rule of thumb. Use it for a rough estimate, not an exact running time.

### What is the page limit for screenwriting contests?

Check each contest's current rules rather than using a general feature range. The Academy Nicholl Fellowships' 2026-2027 rules ask for 80 to 125 pages in standard industry format, using 12-point Courier.

### Should you change font size to meet a page limit?

Keep the required font size: the Academy Nicholl Fellowships' 2026-2027 rules specify 12-point Courier. Shrinking margins or line spacing to reduce page count is commonly discouraged, and the Nicholl FAQ warns against it.