The Victorian International Education Awards celebrate our most exceptional international students, recent graduates and industry champions.

Award categories

Student award categories recognise the impact and contribution of our international student community in Victoria and beyond.

Student award categories

There are 8 student award categories in 2025:

• International Student of the Year – Higher Education
• International Student of the Year – Research
• International Student of the Year – English Language Training
• International Student of the Year – Vocational Education and Training
• International Student of the Year – Regional
• International Student/Graduate Entrepreneur of the Year
• Emerging Leader – International Alumni Award
• Premier’s Award – International Student of the Year

Learn more about the assessment criteria for the 2025 student award categories.

Industry award categories

Industry award categories recognise excellence in leadership and innovation in our international education sector and show the world why Victoria is a world-class education destination.

There are 6 industry award categories in 2025:

• Excellence in International Student Experience
• Excellence in International Student Employability and Career Development
• Excellence in Transnational Education and International Partnerships
• International Student Employer of the Year
• Excellence in International Student Accommodation
• Premier’s Award – International Education Provider of the Year

Learn more about the assessment criteria for the 2025 industry award categories.

Who can apply?

Current international students who are studying with a Victorian post-secondary education provider and meet the relevant eligibility requirements can apply for the student category awards.

Recent graduates who completed their studies within the last 5 years can apply for the Alumni and Entrepreneur award categories if they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.

Victorian-based education providers and organisations who hold an Australian Business Number (ABN) and meet specified eligibility criteria outlined against the relevant award category can apply for the industry category awards.

Check the Terms and Conditions for detailed eligibility criteria.

Why apply?

These prestigious awards tell a powerful story about the contribution of Victoria’s international student community and international education industry.

Students apply for the awards for recognition of their achievements, to elevate their success and to inspire others. Student award winners will be awarded $3,000 each. The most outstanding student winner will receive the 2025 Premier’s Award - International Student of the Year and an additional $5,000.

Industry awards winners and finalists will receive acknowledgement from the Victorian Government for their excellence in leadership and innovation and show the world why Victoria is a world-class education destination.

All finalists will be invited to the official Victorian International Education Awards ceremony where they will be presented with an official certificate. Award winners will receive an official trophy and recognition at the ceremony and across Study Melbourne channels.

How to apply

Applications for the 2025 Victorian International Education Awards close at 11:59 PM AEST on Friday 12 September 2025.

Read the assessment criteria for the 2025 student award categories or the 2025 industry award categories and prepare any supporting documentation or evidence before you start your application.

Read the Terms and Conditions for detailed eligibility criteria and other important information.

Judging process

Applications will be assessed by a judging panel of senior industry and government leaders. Refer to the 2025 student award categories or the 2025 industry award categories for more information about how each award is assessed.

Finalists will be notified in early November 2025. Winners will be announced at the official Victorian International Education Awards ceremony in late 2025.

Terms and conditions

Read the Terms and Conditions for detailed eligibility criteria and other important information.

Help and support

If you have any questions related to the Victorian International Education Awards 2025.