The shortlist reflects a wide range of political, social and personal narratives, continuing the category’s role as a barometer of global filmmaking beyond Hollywood. The International Feature Film race is often one of the most competitive at the Oscars, with many shortlisted films already established on the international festival circuit.

Academy members from multiple branches cast votes in preliminary rounds covering animated short film, documentary feature, documentary short, international feature, live action short, makeup and hairstyling, original score, original song, sound and visual effects. This year introduced two new shortlist categories: achievement in casting and best cinematography.

The inclusion of this prize brings the total number of live-televised awards to 24 on March 15, when the 98th Academy Awards will take place. While the casting honour is new to the main broadcast, the Academy has also laid groundwork for a stunt design award, set to debut at the 100th Oscars in 2028.

After receiving widespread acclaim for his performance at this year's Academy Awards, Conan O'Brien is set to return as host for the 98th Oscars, scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026.