Deadline: January 28, 2026
The iF Design Student Award 2026 is one of the most prestigious global design competitions for students and recent graduates. It recognizes and celebrates innovative design solutions that address pressing global challenges while contributing to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 1–15).
If you are a design student or a recent graduate with a creative concept that can make a difference, this is your opportunity to gain international recognition and a share of the €50,000 prize fund.
About the iF Design Student Award 2026
The iF Design Student Award 2026 provides a global platform for young creatives to showcase their design ideas aimed at solving real-world issues. Every year, thousands of entries are received from universities and design schools across the world, covering fields such as product design, communication design, service design, mobility, user experience (UX), and social innovation.
This award not only promotes creativity and innovation but also encourages the integration of moral, ethical, and sustainable values in design.
Prize and Recognition
Winners of the iF Design Student Award 2026 will share a total prize fund of EUR 50,000. Beyond the monetary reward, winning projects receive global exposure through iF Design’s international platform, exhibitions, and publications. Winners also gain valuable networking opportunities with leading design professionals and organizations.
Eligibility Criteria
The competition is open to design students worldwide, as well as recent graduates who completed their studies within the last two years.
Eligible applicants include:
- Individual students or teams enrolled in universities or design institutions.
- Projects from all design-related disciplines such as product, communication, service, or concept design.
Both individuals and groups are encouraged to submit entries that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 1–15).
Focus Areas
The iF Design Student Award 2026 centers on projects that address global challenges based on the first 15 UN Sustainable Development Goals. These include:
- No Poverty
- Zero Hunger
- Good Health and Well-being
- Quality Education
- Gender Equality
- Clean Water and Sanitation
- Affordable and Clean Energy
- Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- Reduced Inequalities
- Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Responsible Consumption and Production
- Climate Action
- Life Below Water
- Life on Land
Design projects that bring creative, impactful, and feasible solutions to these issues are highly encouraged.
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be evaluated by an international jury of experts based on the following criteria:
- Problem-Solving: How effectively and innovatively the design addresses a real problem.
- Moral-Ethical Standards: The design’s respect for human dignity and social responsibility.
- Solidarity: Its contribution to community well-being and social impact.
- Economic Sense: Feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and efficient use of resources.
- Beneficial Experience: The overall user experience and value it creates for individuals and communities.
Key Dates
Applicants should take note of the following timeline for the iF Design Student Award 2026:
- Application Deadline: January 28, 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Online Jury Review: Early March 2026
- Final Jury Session (Berlin): April 24, 2026
- Results Announcement: Early May 2026
- Awards Ceremony: June 10–11, 2026, in Frankfurt (World Design Capital)
Application Process
Participation in the iF Design Student Award 2026 is free of charge. Applicants must submit their projects online through the official iF Design submission portal.
The application should include detailed project information, visuals, and an explanation of how the concept aligns with one or more of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Benefits of Participating
- Global Exposure: Gain international visibility and recognition in the design industry.
- Networking: Connect with global design leaders, mentors, and institutions.
- Career Growth: Showcase your talent on a global platform to attract future opportunities.
- Financial Support: Be among the winners sharing the €50,000 prize money.
- Contribution to Change: Be part of a generation driving sustainable and impactful design innovation.
How to Apply
Applications are open until January 28, 2026. Interested applicants are encouraged to prepare their materials early to ensure a complete submission.
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