Oscars 2027: Academy implements new rules for acting and global film presentation
The Oscars 2027 will see major rule changes as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences allows multiple acting nominations in the same category and expands international film eligibility.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has created a new set of rules for the 99th Academy Awards, introducing notable changes to the way nominations and awards are handled. The ceremony is due to take place in 2027, and the latest changes signal a broader, more flexible approach across key categories.
One of the most notable updates is the revision of the acting categories. For the first time, artists can earn more than one nomination in the same category in the same year – provided both performances secure a top five finish in the final poll.
❮❯
Actors can now secure multiple nominations
According to the official press release, in the acting category, actors can now be nominated for more than one performance in the same category if both are among the top five votes. Also, only officially credited roles played by real people with their consent will be considered.
Changes have also been introduced to the Best International Feature Film category. Countries will now be allowed to submit a maximum of two entries, potentially increasing representation from around the world.
The Academy has introduced two ways for a film to qualify for this category. In addition to being selected by a country through official committees, a non-English film can now also qualify by winning top prizes at major international festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Sundance, Toronto and Busan.
In another change, recognition in this category will now be awarded directly to the film rather than the submitting country. The director will receive an Oscar, his name will be engraved on the statue along with the title of the film.
More changes to categories and voting rules
Beyond the core categories, several craft branches have also seen procedural updates. In the casting, the number of statues awarded has been increased, allowing three recipients instead of the previous limit of two. The Cinematography branch will now establish a fixed shortlist of 20 films in its initial voting round, instead of the earlier flexible range.
The changes also extend to voting eligibility. Makeup and Hairstyling Branch members will be required to attend at least one of the final roundtable sessions to qualify for early voting. In visual effects, Academy members must view “before and after” reels presented during the bake-off process before casting their final vote.
The original song category has also been corrected. For entries where the first new music cue appears at the beginning of the end credits, submissions must now include a clip that captures the final moments of the film leading into the credits.
Outside of the competitive categories, the Governors Awards will now follow a broader representation rule, requiring honorees in any given year to collectively reflect at least three different disciplines.
Reflecting the growing role of technology in filmmaking, the Academy has also reserved the right to demand disclosures on the use of generic AI, including the extent of human contribution to a project.
These rules are developed by the Awards Committee in consultation with several branch executive committees, including committees overseeing international facilities and scientific and technical achievements, and will require final approval from the Board of Governors.
The 99th Academy Awards are scheduled to be held on March 14, 2027, with nominations to be announced on January 21, 2027.