PRESS QUALIFICATIONS

We require that applying press outlets demonstrate a minimum of 18 months of continuous coverage. Freelance press members are required to provide an assignment letter from the outlet they wish to represent.

Press outlets are classified into five media types:

1. Blog/Podcast
2. Broadcast Media (television or radio)
3. Digital Media (online)
4. Documentary
5. Print Media (newspaper or magazines)

Only one application per press outlet can be considered. The application must be submitted by the designated Outlet Key Contact (OKC), who will act as the primary liaison between the press outlet and SDCC. While there can be only one OKC per press outlet, it is permissible for an OKC to represent multiple outlets.

It’s important to note that individuals covering solely on social media platforms or community forums do not meet our criteria for press badges.

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HOW TO APPLY AS PRESS

New outlets and returning outlets marked as “NOT QUALIFIED” must submit the Press Outlet Application to be considered for press badges at our conventions. Returning outlets can view their verification status via the “My Outlets” section of the Outlet Key Contact’s Member ID account. 

To apply, please have the Outlet Key Contact* of your outlet visit the link below to submit a 2025 Press Application.

Once the application has been reviewed, the Outlet Key Contact will receive an email and the verification status of the outlet will be updated accordingly in their Member ID account. 

Press outlet verification approval status is valid for two consecutive years, under the discretion of SDCC.

Are you freelancing? Freelance press members who would like to apply must submit a Press Outlet Application as their own Key Contact. The assignment letter must be from the press outlet assigning you. Freelance press members’ verification will only be valid for the year approved.

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OUTLET KEY CONTACT

* The Outlet Key Contact (OKC) is the primary person responsible for facilitating communication between the press outlet and WonderCon/Comic-Con. There can only be one OKC per press outlet. However, an OKC may be the OKC for multiple outlets.

In order to submit the Press Application, the Outlet Key Contact must have a Comic-Con Member ID account. To create a Member ID, please click here.

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VERIFICATION MATERIALS

Verification materials, such as an assignment letter and information/examples of work, must be submitted with your application. These materials are based on the “Media Type” indicated on your outlet’s application.