How are 2026 Oscar nominations chosen?

As the 2026 Oscar nomination were revealed, a question may arise about how they are selected in the first place.

It's a process used by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which involves a submission deadline first.

When it expires, the voting phase begins. It consists of two stages. In the first, which typically occurs in December, members voted and finalized shortlists of films and individuals in all categories.

Weeks later, this shortlist went to voting again - this time for nomination. Voting lasts four days, and the final list is announced live at the event.

But who are the voters at the Oscars?

They are the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The organization has 20 branches, representing actors, directors, writers, producers, editors, and others.

But the members cannot vote in every category during nominations, except in those fields they belong to, and in addition, on Best Picture, Best Animated Short Film, and Best International Feature Film.

However, this rule does not apply to voting when choosing a winner. There, unlike during voting in the nomination phase, any member can vote in any category.

Oscar voters have to watch all the films to vote?

In short, not exactly.

However, for categories like Best Animated Short Film, Best International Feature Film, and Best Live Action Short Film, it mandates that voters in the second round of nominations watch each film on the shortlist.

The 98th Academy Awards will take place in March 15.