The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences set September 30 as the submission deadline for International Feature Film entries for the 99th Oscars. The date is one step in the awards process, not an announcement of nominees or a shortlist.
The same official calendar lists October 8 as the final deadline for animated, documentary and live-action short films, October 14 for original song, October 15 for documentary features, and November deadlines for original score and several general-entry categories.
Awards calendars are useful when they clarify what has and has not happened. A country’s submission may enter the process, but it does not guarantee advancement. Readers should look to the Academy for later eligible-title lists, shortlists and nominations rather than treating the deadline itself as a result.