The Oscars are acknowledged as one of the most prestigious accolades given within the film community, which recognises excellence in film across the globe. Every year, an event referred by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) comes together to recognise filmmakers, performers, directors, authors and any technical artists from across the globe.
The 98th occurring in 2026, will continue this tradition by awarding the finest films produced during the year 2025. Below we are providing you with information regarding the Oscars 2026, nominations, Frequently Asked Questions, date, time and location of the event and many other things.
Oscars 2026: Date, Time & Location
The 98th Oscars Ceremony is set to take place on:
- Date: Sunday, March 15, 2026
- Location: Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Broadcast: ABC (live in the United States and in over 200 countries)
- Start Time: Evening (local time in Los Angeles)
The event will be hosted by Conan O’Brien, who is making a return after his successful tenure as host in previous years.
This annual occasion is among the most significant nights in the entertainment industry, attracting worldwide attention not only for the awards but also for its red carpet fashion, celebrity appearances, and unforgettable speeches.
Nomination List
Currently, the official nomination list for the Oscars 2026 has yet to be made public; however, it is scheduled to be announced on January 22, 2026. Nonetheless, the Academy has released shortlists for several awards, providing an early glimpse at potential nominees in significant categories. These shortlisted films are the most probable candidates for official nominations.
Shortlisted Films (Probable Oscar Contenders)
Below are some films that have been featured on various shortlists for the 98th Oscars, suggesting strong momentum during the awards season:
- Avatar: Fire and Ash
- F1
- Frankenstein
- One Battle After Another
- Sinners
- Sirât
- Superman
- Wicked: For Good
- Hamnet
These films are contenders for categories such as Best Picture, Visual Effects, and other prominent awards.
International Feature Film
A distinct shortlist in the International Feature Film category showcases strong submissions from across the globe. The final nominees in this category will also be disclosed on January 22, 2026, featuring films like:
- Madagascar: Disco Afrika: A Malagasy Story
- Bolivia: The Southern House, among others.
These shortlists provide film enthusiasts with an early insight into potential Oscar nominees and generate excitement as the official lists approach.
What to expect at the Oscars 2026?
The Oscars celebrate accomplishments across a broad spectrum of filmmaking disciplines, including:
- Best Picture
- Acting Categories (Lead and Supporting)
- Directing
- Screenplay (Original and Adapted)
- Original Score & Song
- Technical Awards (Cinematography, Editing, Visual Effects, etc.)
- International Feature Film
- Documentary Features
- Animated Feature Film
Nominees will encompass a blend of blockbuster films, critically lauded arthouse cinema, international productions, and notable entries from streaming services. The Oscars are recognised for their ability to balance artistic merit with industry impact and relevance to popular culture.
The Importance of the Oscars
The Academy Awards are considered the most prestigious film accolades in the world, with winners being awarded the desirable Oscar statuette. The Oscars recognise not only box office success but also artistic quality, craftsmanship, and cultural influence in filmmaking. Achieving an Oscar or merely being nominated can greatly elevate a film’s reputation, support careers, and affect upcoming trends in the industry.
FAQ’s On When Are the Oscars 2026?
When will the 2026 Oscar nominations be announced?
The official Oscar nominations are scheduled to be disclosed on January 22, 2026.
When is the Oscars 2026 ceremony?
The 98th Academy Awards are set to occur on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.
Who is hosting the 2026 Oscars?
Conan O’Brien, a previous host, will once again take on the role of the ceremony’s host.
How many Oscar categories are there?
The Oscars comprise 24 competitive categories, which include acting, directing, writing, and technical awards, in addition to honorary and special achievement awards.
