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Student Film Submissions
VFF is deeply committed to nurturing young talent through our Student Film Competition, which invites high school students across Ontario to submit their short films. This initiative provides budding filmmakers with a unique opportunity to have their work screened in front of a live audience and judged by industry professionals. Winners are awarded bursaries and prizes to support their future endeavors in filmmaking, helping to inspire the next generation of storytellers. By fostering creativity and offering valuable exposure, VFF empowers young filmmakers to take their first steps into the world of cinema.
Please note VFF's Student Film Competition is a local category open to Ontario high school student filmmakers only.
Accepted Student Films
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Students whose submissions are selected will have their films screened and celebrated in a theatre setting in front of a large audience comprised of fellow students, industry professionals and local film enthusiasts.
2025 Prizes:
Student Film Runners-up (2)
Each runner-up will be awarded:
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An exclusive invitation to attend VFF’s prestigious Awards Ceremony, a $1,200 value (includes two student tickets and two educator tickets).
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A $1,500 contribution to the school department that supported their project (e.g., Arts, Drama, or Communications Technology).
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Recognition on stage with a $1,500 school contribution presented in front of an audience of over 600 guests, including industry professionals, dignitaries, and local film enthusiasts.
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$2,000 in equipment rental credits generously provided by Ontario Camera.
Winning Student Film
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An exclusive invitation to attend VFF’s prestigious Awards Ceremony.
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A $3,000 contribution to the school department that supported their project (e.g., Arts, Drama, or Communications Technology).
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Recognition on stage with a $3,000 school contribution presented to an audience of over 600 guests, including industry professionals, dignitaries, and local film enthusiasts.
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$3,000 in equipment rental credits courtesy of Ontario Camera.
All prizes will be distributed to the winning high schools through the teacher or principal who endorsed the submission. Funds are intended to be allocated within the school as needed.
*The prizes listed above are for the VFF 2025 festival season. Prizes are subject to change.
Second Semester
Film Submissions
To submit your film to be considered for the 2026 festival please click below to download the Semester 2 Submission Form. To reference how to properly fill out your form you may review the Sample Submission Form.
Semester 2 Submission deadline is: June 30, 2025.
* Please note that any films submitted past the deadline will not be considered. Additionally, films missing required application information or documentation will be deemed ineligible for consideration. Ensure all materials are submitted accurately and on time to avoid disqualification.
Important Update: All student submissions and education communications after March 1, 2025 should be sent to education@vaughanfilmfest.com
Submission How-To Video Guide
Educator Testimonials
“What an incredible event for these young filmmakers. It will be a night they will remember forever.”
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Jason Luke - Film Teacher at Tommy Douglas Secondary School
"Participating in the Student Screening and the Awards events were amazing experiences for my students, as well as a valuable networking opportunity for me to connect with other educators and industry professionals. My students were beyond excited and truly felt recognized. I know they view having their film nominated as a major accomplishment and will remember participating in VFF as a highlight of their high school experience. They have begun working on their next submissions already! It is undeniable that you have fuelled their passion for filmmaking! Thank you sincerely for everything you do to support and recognize student films."
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Anna Wilson - Visual Arts and Technology Teacher at Richmond Hill High School
"I am an educator that attended this year’s VFF and I have to say I was impressed from start to finish. There was constant communication and the organizers were friendly, professional and seemed to genuinely be passionate about the arts and promoting young filmmakers. My students were chosen as finalists and they were made to feel important and valued. We left the student screening and the happiness on the students faces lasted for weeks after. We were then invited to attend the gala that was an unreal experience for my students, where they had the opportunity to connect with industry professionals and other young filmmakers. They will be talking about this experience for years, and I thank everyone involved for organizing such an amazing event.”
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Ellie Geronikolos - Teacher at Thornlea Secondary School