The NESCOT Film Festival is a new celebration of emerging talent, creativity, and community storytelling — showcasing bold, original work from students, first-time filmmakers, and local creatives.

Organised by students and staff from NESCOT (North East Surrey College of Technology) and hosted at the Epsom Picturehouse, the festival offers an inclusive platform for filmmakers to share their stories with local audiences and industry guests.

Our focus is on short-form work that pushes boundaries, explores new ideas, and reflects diverse perspectives. Alongside film screenings, the festival will feature Q&As, skills workshops, and opportunities for students and aspiring filmmakers to connect with professionals.

We welcome submissions from filmmakers based in the UK, with a special emphasis on supporting student work, early-career talent, and local voices from Surrey and the South East.

Follow us on Instagram @NescotFilmFestival for updates!

Join us in Epsom in March 2026 as we celebrate the next generation of filmmakers.

Rules & Terms

· All films must have been completed on or after 1 January 2024.

· Films must not exceed 20 minutes including credits.

· Filmmakers must be based in the UK, with films produced while studying at a UK college or university

· Submissions must be made via FilmFreeway.

· Films in languages other than English must include English subtitles.

· You may submit to more than one category if applicable.

· There are no premiere requirements — previously screened films are welcome.

· Student filmmakers may be asked to provide proof of enrolment.

- All submissions must be by current or recently graduated students. Submissions must have been produced while enrolled at a college or university.

Terms and Conditions:

1. By submitting your film, you grant NESCOT Film Festival the right to screen your work publicly at the 2026 festival and in associated non-commercial events linked to the festival (e.g. previews, community screenings).

3. Submission does not guarantee selection. All submissions will be reviewed by a panel, and decisions are final.

4. The submitter must own the rights to the film and ensure all third-party content (music, images, etc.) is cleared for public screening.

5. If selected, filmmakers must provide a screening-quality file (details will be shared upon selection).

6. NESCOT Film Festival reserves the right to use short excerpts, stills, and promotional materials from submitted films for festival marketing and publicity.