The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially launched the 2025 Student Academy Awards® competition, with submissions now being accepted through May 18, 2025. The prestigious 52nd annual ceremony will take place in New York City at the Ziegfeld Ballroom on October 6, 2025, during the New York Film Festival.
This year marks a significant partnership with Rolex, which is supporting the awards as part of its ongoing commitment to fostering excellence and transferring cinematic knowledge to emerging filmmakers. The ceremony returns to the United States after being held in London last year.
Key Changes for 2025 Competition
The Academy has implemented notable changes to expand eligibility requirements:
- Students enrolled in certificate programs can now submit their final film projects, whereas previously only degree-seeking students could participate
- Schools no longer need to meet accreditation requirements for student eligibility
- Both full-time and part-time undergraduate and graduate students may participate with intermediate-level or final graduation films
Submission Process
Film students from around the world will compete in four distinct categories:
- Animation
- Documentary
- Live Action Narrative
- Alternative/Experimental
All submissions must be completed through FilmFreeway, the widely used festival and competition platform. Detailed rules and submission guidelines are available at www.oscars.org/saa.
Award Recognition and Opportunities
Winners will be announced in August 2025, with all Student Academy Award-winning films automatically qualifying to compete for the 98th Oscars® in their respective short film categories.
The Student Academy Awards, established in 1972, continues its 50+ year tradition of providing emerging global talent with a platform to showcase their work and create industry opportunities. The program has an impressive track record, with past winners collectively receiving 69 Oscar® nominations and winning or sharing 15 Academy Awards.
For additional application details, interested filmmakers can visit the Student Academy Awards application page.
