Yale Student Film Festival

The Yale Student Film Festival (YSFF) is one of the largest student-run film festivals in the world, bringing together emerging filmmakers and industry professionals to spotlight bold new voices. We amplify the stories only students can tell, building global and local communities of young filmmakers who support each other as they enter the industry.

The festival’s 11th edition will take place April 2–5, 2026 at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut. The four-day event will feature selected student films, spotlight screenings, workshops, and panels led by industry professionals and working filmmakers, culminating in an awards ceremony celebrating young filmmakers.

Since our founding in 2015, YSFF has received nearly 10,000 submissions from over 50 countries—a testament to our commitment to uplifting diverse voices in student filmmaking. Closer to home, we partner with other Yale student organizations in addition to high schools and universities in Connecticut and New England. The result is a festival rooted in community and driven by a mission: to launch the filmmakers of tomorrow.

Additional details about the festival can be found on our website, and submissions are open until January 18th, 2026 through our FilmFreeway page.

Inquiries?

theyalestudentfilmfestival@gmail.com