Duda's entry I Am Bigger and Better and Luzar's entry Vucko were chosen from 45 films representing 29 countries. They will compete against student films from Spain, Germany, and Israel. The finalists will travel to Los Angeles for a week of industry-related events prior to the awards ceremony.

In a press release, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences said Luzar's nomination was the first ever for Slovenia.

Several past student winners in this category have gone on to win Oscars, including Jan Sverak, winner of Best Foreign Film for Kolya.