Contest Overview

Film Excellence recognizes outstanding student films from across the country, awarding top entries in a variety of categories. Schools may submit unlimited entries in each category. The top five finalists and the overall winner in each category will be announced at the 2026 STN Convention and presented with awards on stage. Schools are not required to attend the convention to participate.

Important Dates

  • Registration & Submission Deadline: Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 5PM PT

  • Winners Announced: At the 2026 STN Convention Excellence Awards (Livestream will be available)

Entry Guidelines

  • Films must be produced between March 4, 2025 and January 20, 2026

  • Entries may not exceed 15 minutes in total runtime

  • No entries previously submitted to an STN contest may be entered

  • Schools may submit unlimited entries per category

  • Schools are not required to attend the convention to enter this contest

  • Refunds will not be granted after your registration has been submitted

  • All films must follow the official STN Contest Rules and Creative Content Policy

Judging & Awards

  • Each entry will be scored and receive professional feedback from an industry judge

  • The top five scoring films in each category will be considered finalists, and the highest-scoring film will be named the winner

  • Winners will be announced on stage at the 2026 STN Convention

Need Help?

Contact shonda@studenttelevision.com with any questions.

ANIMATION

Bring your imagination to life—literally! This category celebrates original short films created through any animation style, from stop motion to 3D to hand-drawn. Story still matters, so pair your visuals with a strong narrative that has a beginning, middle, and end. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.

COMEDY

Get ready to crack us up! This category celebrates original short-form stories that aim to entertain, amuse, and leave us laughing. Whether it’s clever dialogue, visual gags, or perfectly awkward moments, strong comedic timing and storytelling are key. Like all short films, entries must have a distinct beginning, middle, and end. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.

DRAMA

Hit us in the feels. This category is for original short-form dramas that explore real-life situations, emotional tension, and powerful character arcs. Great drama makes us care deeply—so bring on the conflict, connection, and cinematic storytelling. Entries must have a complete narrative with a beginning, middle, and end. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.

DOCUMENTARY

Tell a true story that sticks with us. This category honors original, short-form documentaries that dig deep into real people, places, topics, or themes. We’re looking for honest storytelling, strong structure, and a meaningful point of view. Like all short films, documentaries should have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.

EXPERIMENTAL

Break the rules, blur the lines, and surprise us! This brand-new category is for bold, original short films that take risks with visuals, structure, or storytelling. Think non-linear timelines, abstract concepts, or unexpected techniques. Entries should still feel purposeful and complete. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.

HORROR/SCI-FI/THRILLER

Frighten us. Shock us. Transport us. This category is for original short-form genre stories that tap into fear, mystery, suspense, or futuristic wonder. Whether it’s jump scares or slow-burn dread, your film should tell a complete and gripping story. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Big creativity starts early. This category is open to middle school filmmakers creating short-form stories in any genre—comedy, drama, horror, documentary, animation, and more. Show us your vision through a clear beginning, middle, and end. Title slate and credits are required and count toward the total run time.