Frequently asked questions
Got questions about SCBWI and creating children's books? Find clear answers to the most frequently asked questions.
In-person and Virtual Winter Conference 2026 FAQ
Is there a waitlist for the in-person conference portfolio and manuscript consultations?
No. There is no waitlist for consultations. Once they are full, they are full. If you are interested in securing a spot once all spaces are booked, please check the registration page of the conference website periodically to see if spots have opened due to cancellations. These spots will be filled first come, first served.
I have registered for the In-Person Winter Conference. Where do I find the discount code for $20 off the price of the Virtual Winter Conference?
Go to MEMBER HOME > RESOURCES and click on "Winter In-Person Conference 2026 Coupon Codes, Handouts, and Materials". Registration for the Virtual Winter Conference opens in November.
I am registered for the in-person conference in NY. How do I add a consultation, the Illustrators Intensive or the Portfolio Showcase to my registration?
Make sure you are logged on to the site. Go to the conference landing page and click on the Register button. The registration form will show you everything you are already registered for and allow you to add a consultation, the Illustrators Intensive and the Portfolio Showcase as long as there is space available.
How do I change which breakout session or Creative Lab I've registered for?
Go to your MEMBER HOME and click on the EVENTS icon. Scroll down to the session you'd like to change. Click the 3 dots in the corner and click on "unregister selection." Return to the conference registration page to make your new selection. Please watch this video for a walkthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuWkkrmEHnc (instructions on changing a breakout are in the middle of the video).
How do I apply for one of the conference scholarships?
Click on your MEMBER HOME. Click the AWARDS icon at the top and then scroll down to find the box for the scholarship you want to apply for. Click on the SUBMIT button.
How can I submit my work to conference faculty?
Due to the large number of conference attendees, we cannot provide submission guidelines for conference faculty. That said, sometimes agents or editors will provide them during their sessions. The conference is an excellent opportunity to hear from children’s book editors and agents and get clear on the types of books they represent. If you feel an agent or editor is a good match for your manuscript or artwork, you may research their submission guidelines and query them if they are open to unsolicited submissions.
How will I get my Zoom links to the Virtual Conference?
Instructions on accessing the Virtual Conference sessions will be emailed to all registered attendees in January.
I have to miss all or part of the VIRTUAL conference. Where and when can I watch the recordings?
Video recordings will be available to view approximately one week after the virtual conference ends. You can access the recordings under MEMBER HOME > RESOURCES. Attendees will have access to the videos through March 15, 2026.
What is your refund policy?
Full refunds (minus a $70 cancellation fee and a $5 processing fee) are given for the in-person conference up until December 19, 2025. Refunds for the virtual conference will be given up until January 9, 2026. To request a refund, please email: [email protected]. No refunds are given after these dates. There are no refunds for one-on-one consultations or for the publishing house tours.
I have additional questions.
Email: [email protected]
How do I add the Tomie dePaola Mentorship Award to my registration if I have already paid for the Portfolio Showcase at the in-person conference in NY?
Please email [email protected] to add the Tomie dePaola Mentorship Award if you have already registered for the Portfolio Showcase.