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Last Call: Submissions for VFF 2026 Are Closing Soon

  • Writer: VFF
    VFF
  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read

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The New Year isn’t the only thing approaching fast.


With less than 50 days left to submit, we’re officially calling on short filmmakers from around the world—and High Schoolers across Ontario—to make sure they don’t miss their chance to be part of the Vaughan International Film Festival 2026 lineup.


We know you’re juggling edits, deadlines, and about a hundred open tabs, so we’ve broken down everything you need to know about submitting to VFF—quickly, clearly, and without the fine-print headache.


Let’s get into it. 



When Is the Submission Deadline?

The final deadline for all submissions is:


January 31, 2026 at 11:59 PM EST


Late submissions won’t be considered, so we strongly recommend submitting early to avoid last-minute issues. For extra peace of mind, check out our previous blog post on common submission mistakes (International Filmmakers and Student Filmmakers) —and how to avoid them.



Who Can Submit?


VFF welcomes both international filmmakers and Ontario high school students. These categories are judged separately.

  • International films must be submitted through FilmFreeway

  • Ontario high school student films must be submitted via email by downloading and filling out the Student Submission form found directly through the VFF website HERE.



How Long Can My Film Be?

  • International films: 20 minutes or less

  • Ontario High School Student films: 10 minutes or less


How Old Can My Film Be?

Submitted films must have been produced after January 1, 2025.


Can I Submit a Work-in-Progress?

VFF does not accept works-in-progress. That said, films awaiting final touches—such as colour grading, sound mixing, or captions—may be considered if timelines are clearly outlined at time of submission.


Does My Film Need to Be a Premiere?

No premiere status is required. However, any prior screenings must be disclosed during submission.


Can I Submit More Than One Film?

Yes. Filmmakers may submit multiple films. Student Filmmakers looking to submit multiple films must fill out a separate form for each submission. 


Accepted File Formats

Please submit your film in one of the following formats:

  • ProRes

  • .MOV

High-quality H.264 MP4


* Note: International Filmmakers will only be required to provide required formats if their film is an official selection


Supporting Materials You’ll Need If Selected:

All international filmmakers are responsible for providing:

  • Trailer

  • Poster

  • Stills

  • Filmmaker bio

  • Film synopsis

These materials help your film live beyond the screen—on our website, social platforms, and press coverage.



What Makes a Strong Submission?

To give your film its best shot, make sure you:

  • Confirm credits and audio are correct

  • Include English subtitles

  • Double-check export settings

  • Ensure your film is not publicly available (especially online on various streaming/video platforms - these films will not be considered). 

  • Avoid missing files or broken links

  • Disclose any use of AI, if applicable


Our programming team also looks for originality, strong visual craft, and diverse storytelling from a wide range of cultural perspectives.



How Are Films Selected?

Once submissions close, films are reviewed by the programming team to curate the VFF 2026 lineup. Accepted filmmakers will be notified by email and must confirm participation by the stated deadline to remain in the program.


The official lineup will be publicly announced on March 26, 2026 during Vaughan Summer Lineup.



Is Festival Attendance Required?

Attendance is not mandatory, but it’s highly encouraged. Many filmmakers say experiencing the energy of festival week—from screenings to Q&As—is a personal highlight.



What Happens If My Film Is Selected?


Selected filmmakers receive access to a full festival experience, including:


  • Screening at a world-class short film festival

  • Eligibility for awards such as Best Film, Best Canadian Film, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Performance, and Best Student Film (for Ontario High School Students Only) 

  • Industry exposure among audiences and fellow filmmakers

  • Festival Promotion

  • Networking opportunities

  • Screening Q&As, media wall interviews, and red-carpet moments


Student filmmakers also receive additional perks, including bursaries, recognition, and educational opportunities.


How Are Films Judged?

Yes—films are judged in separate categories.

  • Student films are evaluated by the EIPMA Judging Panel, with winners receiving bursaries and prizes to support their (or their school’s) future filmmaking endeavours.

  • International films are judged by the VFF International Jury, made up of accomplished editors, sound professionals, actors, producers, journalists, and educators from across the industry.



Beyond the screen, being part of VFF is a career milestone, a creative connector, and a gateway to meaningful industry relationships.


This is your moment.





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