The STN Challenge gives students six days to produce a variety of broadcast and film projects based on provided prompts. This is a great contest for students of all levels to put their skills to the test in a real world, deadline-driven scenario.
Important Dates
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at 5PM PT
Prompt Release: Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 8AM PT on the STN website
Submission Deadline: Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 5PM PT
Winners Announced: Typically 3-4 weeks after deadline
Entry Guidelines
$25 per entry
Each member can have one (1) team per category
Team Size: Up to four (4) students for broadcast, up to six (6) students for film
Each student may only be a registered lead with one team
Cancellations and/or refunds will not be granted after your registration has been submitted.
Production Rules
All footage and interviews must be original and captured during the contest window
Use of footage or photos from media sources, including CNN Newsource, is NOT permitted.
Still photos provided by a story subject are allowed for backstory
Entries must be 100% student-produced. Teachers and industry mentors may only advise.
Judging & Awards
Each entry will be scored and receive professional feedback from an industry judge
Judges will award 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, with up to two honorable mentions when applicable
Judging results are typically posted 3–4 weeks after the deadline
Teachers will be notified 1–2 days before results are released
Winners will be featured on STN social media and the website
