International competitions students can still enter in 2026
If you are searching for international competitions students can still enter in 2026, this shortlist gives you a clear place to start. The options below range from journalism and poetry to climate tech, photography, and research funding, with deadlines running from 31 July to December 2026.
This is a strong time to apply because several contests are still open in the coming weeks, while others offer travel, publication, training, or major visibility. Check the eligibility carefully, prepare your strongest entry, and submit early if you can.
1. FAO Global Youth Contest 2027
This FAO Global Youth Contest 2027 is a strong pick if you have used the FAO e-Learning Academy and can explain its impact in a clear personal story. The top three winners receive a fully funded trip to Rome for the World Food Forum in October 2026, plus visibility through FAO media, which makes it especially valuable for students and young professionals who want international exposure.
2. Thomson Young Journalist Award 2026
The Thomson Young Journalist Award 2026 stands out for journalists aged 30 and under from eligible countries who want both recognition and practical career support. Finalists travel to London for the Foreign Press Association Media Awards and also receive a bespoke training session, which means the prize is not only prestigious but also useful for building skills and professional contacts.
3. UN FAO elearning Academy Global Youth Contest 2026
If you are a registered learner of the FAO e-learning Academy, this contest is a direct way to turn your learning into global recognition. Winners get a fully funded trip to Rome for the World Food Forum, along with a video interview and worldwide visibility, so it is especially appealing for applicants who can tell a short, strong story about practical impact.
4. ZODML Poetry Prize 2026
The ZODML Poetry Prize 2026 is worth entering if you study in a Nigerian public tertiary institution and write original poetry. It offers more than a cash reward, with finalists competing for publication and an all-expenses-paid trip to the award ceremony in Lagos. For student poets, that mix of recognition, travel, and exposure is hard to ignore.
5. Oxford Saïd Global Climate Tech Challenge 2026
The Oxford Saïd Global Climate Tech Challenge 2026 is a good fit for high school students and teachers worldwide who want to tackle climate issues with practical ideas. Entrants work on five challenges and present at the University of Oxford, with prizes that include scholarships and paid opportunities, making it a strong choice for those interested in innovation and education.
6. RAEng Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2027
The RAEng Africa Prize for Engineering Innovation 2027 is a high-value option for people building scalable engineering solutions to local challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. Up to four awardees pitch live for a chance to win £50,000, which can help move an idea closer to commercialisation. It is especially relevant if your project already has real-world potential.
7. European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital)
The European Capital of Innovation Awards, or iCapital, is ideal for cities that want international recognition for innovation work. Winning cities and runners-up receive substantial prizes, plus exposure and networking through the iCapital alumni network. If your city is eligible and has a strong innovation story, this is a prestigious chance to gain visibility across Europe and beyond.
8. Cengiz Bektaş Şiir Ödülü
The Cengiz Bektaş Poetry Prize is a solid opportunity for poets writing in Turkish who want both a monetary award and public recognition. The winner is announced during a dedicated programme, and the organising committee covers travel and accommodation. That support makes the prize more accessible and adds a professional, celebratory setting for the winning work.
9. AU–EU Partnership (#AUEU25) Through Our Lens Photography Competition 2025
The #AUEU25 Through Our Lens Photography Competition is a strong international platform for young photographers from Africa and Europe. Finalists may see their work exhibited in Addis Ababa and possibly Brussels, with extra online showcases and promotion through AU and EU channels. If your image can capture cooperation and impact, this contest offers excellent visibility.
10. Warwick Doctoral College PGR Scholarship Competitions
The Warwick Doctoral College PGR Scholarship Competitions are valuable if you are aiming for doctoral study at the University of Warwick and want one application to count for multiple funding options. Successful applicants receive full tuition coverage and a living stipend, which makes it one of the strongest routes here for research students who need serious financial support.
If one of these opportunities matches your profile, do not wait too long, some deadlines are already very close, and strong competitions often reward early, complete applications. Read the eligibility rules, prepare your materials carefully, and submit before the deadline so you do not miss your chance.