College TV Awards Honor Student Storytellers

Top student-produced films and series recognized by Television Academy Foundation.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 6:50am

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The Television Academy Foundation has announced the winners of the 45th College Television Awards, honoring the best in student-produced films, series, and other media projects from colleges and universities across the United States. The annual awards ceremony celebrates the next generation of television and digital content creators.

Why it matters

The College Television Awards provide vital recognition and career-launching opportunities for aspiring filmmakers, writers, directors, and producers while they are still students. Many past winners have gone on to successful careers in the entertainment industry, making this an important pipeline for discovering new talent.

The details

A total of 30 awards were presented across 12 categories, including drama, comedy, news, and documentary. The top prizes were awarded to students from the University of Southern California, New York University, and the University of California, Los Angeles. Categories ranged from Best Director and Best Cinematography to Outstanding Series and the Loreen Arbus Focus on Disability Award.

  • The 45th College Television Awards ceremony took place on March 28, 2026 in Los Angeles.
  • Submissions for the awards were accepted from January 1 to December 31, 2025.

The players

Television Academy Foundation

A nonprofit organization that supports and celebrates excellence in television through various educational programs and awards.

University of Southern California

A private research university located in Los Angeles, known for its acclaimed film school and entertainment industry connections.

New York University

A private research university based in New York City, with a highly regarded film and television production program.

University of California, Los Angeles

A public research university in Los Angeles, home to one of the top film schools in the country.

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What they’re saying

“These student filmmakers and storytellers represent the future of our industry, and we're honored to celebrate their incredible talents and creativity.”

— Madeline Di Nonno, Chair, Television Academy Foundation

“Winning a College Television Award is a major milestone that can open doors and jumpstart careers. We're thrilled to recognize this year's exceptional group of student innovators.”

— Cris Abrego, President, Television Academy Foundation

What’s next

The Television Academy Foundation will continue to promote the work of the College Television Awards winners through screenings, networking events, and other initiatives to support their transition into the professional entertainment industry.

The takeaway

The College Television Awards celebrate the creative talents and storytelling abilities of the next generation of television and digital content creators, providing crucial recognition and career-launching opportunities for aspiring filmmakers, writers, and producers while they are still students.