Caltech students eligible for 2025 Student Academy Awards

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has opened submissions for the 2025 Student Academy Awards® (SAA), and Caltech students are now eligible to participate. Established in 1972, the SAAs recognize excellence in collegiate filmmaking and support the development of emerging talent in the cinematic arts.

Chris Roginski, assistant to Michael Benedict, Director of Academy Awards Events, confirmed this news, saying, “Caltech students are eligible to participate and submit a short film to be considered for a Student Academy Award.”

While Caltech is globally known for its scientific and engineering achievements, students are increasingly using digital storytelling and visual media to document and communicate research. Filmmaking is now a valid methodological tool, helping researchers capture their process, contextualize findings, and share their work with broader audiences. This integration of research and narrative reflects Caltech’s long-standing tradition of blending science with creative expression—most notably through alumnus Frank Capra (BS, 1918), one of Hollywood’s most influential directors.

Eligible students may submit one film, up to 40 minutes in length, in one of four categories: Narrative, Documentary, Animation, or Alternative/Experimental. Films must be capstone, thesis, or intermediate-level projects completed between June 2, 2024, and May 18, 2025. The competition is open to undergraduate, graduate, and certificate program students.

Entries are free and must be submitted through FilmFreeway, with faculty advisor verification required.

The judging process consists of Preliminary, Semifinal, and Final rounds overseen by Academy members. Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on October 6, 2025, during the New York Film Festival. Final ballots will be tabulated by PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards, including cash prizes of up to $5,000, will be presented in each category. Winning films may also qualify for Oscar® consideration at the 98th Academy Awards in select short film categories.

For full eligibility requirements and submission details, visit oscars.org/saa. Students with further questions may contact saa@oscars.org