Bestowed by the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS), the News & Documentary Emmys are presented in recognition of excellence in American news and documentary programming.

Ceremonies generally are held in the fall, with the Emmys handed out in about 40 awards categories.

According to the News & Documentary Emmy rules, a show, documentary or news report must originally air on American television during the eligibility period between January 1 and December 31, and to at least 50 percent of the country.

Most award categories also require entries to include DVDs or tape masters of the show, documentary or news report.

The Academy solicits anybody with significant experience in national news or documentary reporting or production to serve as judges.