UCIFEST is an annual student-run film festival proudly organized by the Film Program of Universitas Multimedia Nusantara. Now in its 17th year, UCIFEST continues to grow as a dynamic platform for emerging filmmakers to express their creativity, passion, and unique perspectives through the art of storytelling. The festival welcomes film submissions not only from UMN students, but also from students at universities and high schools across the country. UCIFEST is a space where filmmakers from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate cinema as a powerful art form, connect with one another, and engage in meaningful discussions that inspire and empower the next generation of storytellers

This year, UCIFEST 17 presents the theme POWER. In a world that is constantly evolving at a rapid pace, our understanding of power has likewise undergone a significant shift. Power is no longer perceived solely as authority or formal leadership; rather, it manifests in the various dynamics of everyday life that shape the social realities around us.

Through this theme, UCIFEST 17 invites young filmmakers to explore how power operates within their closest environments whether in relationships, social structures, cultural contexts, or personal experiences. Cinema is envisioned as a medium capable of reflecting upon, questioning, and representing the many faces of power within an ever-changing era.

Awards & Prizes

International Fiction for University Student
International Animation for University Student
National Fiction for Highschool Student
National Animation for Highschool Student
International Documentary for University & Highschool Student
Audience Choice Award

Rules & Terms

FILM ELIGIBILITY
- UCIFEST 17 is open to students who are actively enrolled in high school or undergraduate programs, both nationally and internationally.
- Films have been released or premiered on or after January 1, 2024.
- All submitted films must be final versions.
- The maximum duration for submitted short films (in all three categories) is 20 minutes, including opening and end credits.
- Films have not been submitted to UCIFEST previously.
- Films must be the original work of the applicant.
- Films must not contain elements that are offensive to ethnicity, religion, race, and intergroup relations, pornography, or excessive violence (sadism).
- Production team members may come from different universities/schools, but submissions must be made under the name of ONE university/institution/school.

COMPETITION PHASE
- If your film is selected as a nominee, you will receive an email notification from the programming team.
- Attendance does not influence the competition results, and awards still be delivered to winners who are not present.
- Award winners will be revealed on stage during the UCIFEST 17 Awarding Ceremony on Friday, 8 May 2026.
- All announcements will also be available on the official UCIFEST website and UCIFEST social media.