53rd Student Academy Awards Winners Announced: Celebrating Emerging Filmmakers
The prestigious Student Academy Awards winners have been announced, with 16 talented students recognized for their outstanding work in the film industry. These winners will be honored at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) during a special ceremony on September 14, 2026, at 6 p.m. ET. The event, in partnership with Rolex, will reveal the gold, silver, and bronze placements in four award categories. Winners will also have access to educational programming, networking opportunities, and support from Academy members to further their careers.
The Student Academy Awards winners will have the chance to compete for the 99th Oscars in categories such as Animated Short Film, Live Action Short Film, or Documentary Short Film. Past winners of the Student Academy Awards have gone on to receive numerous Oscar nominations and awards, showcasing the talent and potential of emerging filmmakers. Established in 1972, the Student Academy Awards aim to provide a platform for young talent to showcase their work and make a mark in the film industry.
The 2026 Student Academy Awards winners include Lei He from Duke University, Viktorie Štěpánová from Filmová a Televizní Fakulta Akademie Múzických Umění v Praze (FAMU), Nina Broers from St. Joost School of Art & Design, and many more talented individuals from around the world. These students represent a diverse range of backgrounds and creative visions, bringing fresh perspectives to the film industry. Congratulations to all the winners of the 53rd Student Academy Awards!