ABOUT THE CONTEST
The Film Excellence is a competition where student films from across the nation compete head-to-head for the opportunity to be awarded an Excellence award in various film categories. Schools may submit unlimited entries in each film category. The five finalists and 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 enter this contest. New for 25-26: All entries must be produced between February 4, 2025 through January 20, 2026. The deadline is January 20, 2026 at 5PM PT.
STN is open to diverse interpretations of the human experience. Sensitive topics should be handled with maturity and avoid using foul language, being gratuitous, explicitly violent, obscene or overtly sexual. Students may depict actions leading up to or following an incident, however, they should not show the explicit act of the incident itself. Submissions should not depict youth involved in risky, questionable, or illegal activities without also examining the outcomes, ramifications, or consequences of those activities. Read the STN Creative Contest Policy for more information.
Entries must not exceed 15 minutes. No entries from a previous STN contest may be submitted. Each entry will be scored and provided a critique by a professional who will offer their expert opinion and feedback, based on years of work experience in the TV/Film industry. Judges will evaluate all entries using a contest rubric. The highest score in each category may be awarded.
All questions and concerns about contests can be sent directly to shonda@studenttelevision.com.
** Refunds will not be granted after your registration has been submitted. Please plan accordingly. **
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.