Access Codes let you control who can access a submission form and what they can access next. Whether you want to gate a form behind a password, tie access to a payment, or unlock a series of forms after a single action, access codes give you the infrastructure to do it.
There are two types: Manual Codes and Unique Codes. Both serve different purposes, and depending on your programme structure, you may find yourself using one or both.
Manual Codes
A Manual Code is a single code that you set on a project. To access the submission form, a creator must enter that code before they can proceed.
This is useful when you want to:
Restrict access to invited applicants only — share the code directly with shortlisted or pre-approved creators, rather than leaving the form open to anyone with a link.
Run a private or internal open call — for example, a staff submissions programme or a members-only award where you don't want public access.
Control timing — release the code at a specific moment, so all applicants start at the same time.
A Manual Code is the simplest form of access control: one code, one form, controlled distribution.
Unique Codes
Unique Codes work differently — and unlock a much wider set of possibilities.
Here's the core idea: Unique Codes are generated on one project and can be embedded into a submission form. When a creator completes that form (and meets any conditions you've set), they receive codes and direct links that give them access to one or more other designated projects.
This is particularly powerful when combined with a payment field.
Paying for access
If you add a payment field to a form, a creator only receives their Unique Codes once the payment goes through. You're not just locking a form — you're tying access to a completed transaction.
Example: A creator pays for a 3-entry package. Once the payment is confirmed, they receive 3 Unique Codes — each giving them access to a separate submission form. One payment, three tracked entries, no manual work on your end.
Other use cases for Codes
The payment scenario is one of the most common, but Unique Codes are flexible enough to handle a range of programme structures.
Eligibility screening Set up a short eligibility form first. If a creator meets the criteria, completing it generates a code that unlocks the main submission form. Creators who don't qualify never see the full form. This reduces irrelevant submissions before they land in your pipeline.
Multi-stage application journeys Use a first-stage form (e.g. an expression of interest or EOI) to select who progresses. Shortlisted applicants receive a Unique Code that unlocks Stage 2 — a more detailed application. Only the people you've selected can move forward.
Agreements and declarations Require creators to read and sign off on terms, conditions, or a code of conduct before accessing the main form. Completing the declaration form generates the code to proceed. Useful for programmes with ethical guidelines or legal requirements.
Membership or registration gating Run a quick registration form first. Once a creator has registered (and you've had a chance to verify or approve them if needed), they receive a code to access the programme's full submission form.
Tiered entry programmes A single application form could trigger different access depending on what a creator selects — for example, choosing a category or membership tier could direct them to the relevant entry form for that track.
Why this matters
Without Access Codes, your submission form is either open to everyone or manually managed. Access Codes let you build structured, automated entry journeys — with gating, payment, and multi-form sequences all handled within Dapple, without needing external tools or manual follow-up.