Next TREFF will be held in 2028, film submissions open early 2027.

The mission of the Tromsø Educational Film Festival (TREFF) is to promote the use of film as a pedagogical tool. TREFF showcases creative and innovative ways to teach through film, aiming to present the finest educational films.

At TREFF, we bring together filmmakers and educators to foster new connections and inspire creativity within the world of educational film.

During the festival, we not only watch films but also engage in discussions about their pedagogical value. We feature inspiring keynote speakers who will discuss film as a medium for learning. Additionally, there will be various social gatherings.

Tromsø is a small yet vibrant city in Northern Norway, surrounded by mountains and the sea. The city offers easy access to stunning nature and boasts an academic and creative environment at UiT The Arctic University of Norway.

Don't miss this opportunity to become a part of this thriving community of filmmakers and educators.

Note: Submissions must include a description of the pedagogical context and teaching application of your film.

All the films selected within the program are in the competition.

An independent jury will select winners in these categories:

- Best educational film

- Best pedagogical concept where film is used

- Best educational social media channel

- Best student film

In addition, there will be an audience award and honorable mentions.

The films submitted to the film festival are evaluated based on some, but not necessarily all, of the criteria:
Learning outcome, Originality/Creativity, Viewer engagement, Pedagogical concept, Communication, Structure, Writing, Cinematography, Sound/Music, Editing/Pacing.

* Filmmakers must include a brief synopsis of the film and a description of how the film can be used for teaching purposes. 
* In order to submit a film, you must own the rights or have permission from the owner.
* The films must have English subtitles
* Submission fee is non-refundable
* A downloadable high-definition link (.mov or .mp4) of the film is required if the film is selected to be screened. The screening files should preferably have burned-in English subtitles.
* TREFF has the rights to use pictures or short clips of the submitted material for promotional purposes. 
* The films must have been completed after January 1st 2020.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Peter Andreas Kristoffersen

    Going to TREFF 2026 was a really really great experience. The organizers in Tromsø where INCREDIBLE, and we felt so welcome. Great films, great hosts (all of them!), Tromsø in sunshine, great dinner. Highly recommenced. <3

    April 2026
  • Loved it. Absolutely fantastic festival! My first time, but I definitely intend to come back.

    April 2026
  • Rory Burford

    A unique opportunity to see a huge range of creative educational films. Organised by a friendly, highly motivated team, who are very welcoming to beginners. And probably(?) the northernmost educational film festival in the world. What are you waiting for?

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Thank you for kind words, Rory, thanks for being a part of our community! Definitely the northernmost ;)

  • Barbora Klocová

    Second time attending this festival. Great atmosphere, perfect place for networking. High quality of films. I left with a lot of inspiration and vaulable connections. Deffinitely coming back!

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    Awesome, Barbora, looking forward to see you next time!

  • Eilert Torsnes

    Fantastic festival for the learning community!

    April 2026
    Response from festival:

    So great to have you at TREFF, Eilert!