The Call for Applications is now open. All submissions must be received no later than 31 July 2026 (23:59 BST). Late submissions cannot be accepted under any circumstances.

Applications must be submitted via the official awards platform: [LINK]. There is no fee to enter.

You may save and edit your submission at any time before the deadline. After 31 July 2026, submissions are final and cannot be amended.

All applications must be submitted in English.

Yes. Applicants may submit multiple distinct projects and may enter different projects into different categories.

No. The same project may not be entered into multiple categories. If duplicate submissions are detected, QS reserves the right to determine the most appropriate category and remove duplicate entries.

There is no formal limit on the number of distinct projects that may be submitted. However, to ensure diversity of representation at the in-person conference, QS reserves the right to limit the number of Showcase Passes allocated to any single institution or organisation.

Some award categories include different pathways to ensure projects are evaluated alongside initiatives of a similar type or stage of development. Please refer to the pathway guidance provided on this page: [insert link]. If you remain unsure, you may contact reimagine@qs.com prior to submission.

Each project must be entered into one category only. Applicants should select the category that most closely reflects the project’s primary focus and impact. If you are uncertain, please contact reimagine@qs.com for guidance before submitting.

Yes. Collaborative submissions are welcome. All participating organisations should be clearly listed in the application. Collaborating parties are responsible for agreeing in advance on any arrangements regarding recognition or prize distribution.

Yes. Early-stage initiatives, including prototypes or recently launched projects, are eligible. Applicants should provide supporting evidence where available, such as pilot data, feasibility research, testing results, or implementation plans.

Yes — continued innovation is encouraged.

• Category Gold winners may re-enter the same initiative after one award cycle, provided substantial advancement can be demonstrated.
• Overall Award winners may re-enter the same initiative after three award cycles, provided monumental transformation can be demonstrated.
• These restrictions apply only to the previously awarded initiative.
• Regional Gold winners may re-enter in the following cycle without restriction.
• New initiatives may be submitted at any time.
  

Yes. Each submission is assessed independently. Prior non-selection does not affect future applications.

Shortlisted projects are those that have successfully passed through the first round of evaluations and progressed to the next stage of judging.

Shortlisted projects receive an official e-badge and e-certificate and are featured in the Innovations Directory. They may also apply for a Showcase Pass to present at the conference.

Shortlisted projects may apply for a Showcase Pass, which includes:

• A 5-minute presentation slot at the in-person conference
• One full conference access pass (Gala Dinner not included)

Showcase Passes are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

No. Showcase participation is not a prerequisite for winning. All submissions are evaluated through the formal judging process.

All submissions are evaluated through multiple stages by independent expert judges appointed by QS. Each project is assessed by a minimum of three judges. Category Gold, Silver, and Bronze winners are selected within each category. Overall Award recipients are selected by the Grand Jury following completion of the evaluation process. All decisions are final.

Judges are senior experts working across education, edtech, policy, research, and industry. The official Jury list will be published prior to the close of submissions.

Yes. Judges may submit projects but may only evaluate categories different from their submission. Judges must declare any conflicts of interest and accept the terms of the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) during the account activation process.

Attendance is not mandatory for eligibility. Category and Regional winners are formally announced during the conference, and Overall Award recipients are formally announced at the Awards Ceremony in London.

Participation in the conference provides additional visibility, networking opportunities, and engagement with senior sector leaders. Winners who are unable to attend will still receive official recognition and certification following the event.

Category and Regional winners receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze recognition (as applicable), formal acknowledgement during the conference, and global visibility through press and digital promotion.

Following completion of the evaluation process, two initiatives are selected by the Grand Jury to receive the Overall Awards:

• Global Education Award – US$25,000 cash prize
• Global EdTech Award – Cloud credits valued at US$25,000

Overall Award recipients are formally announced at the Awards Ceremony.

No. Conference attendance and associated costs are the responsibility of delegates.

Any personal data provided as part of your application will be processed in accordance with the QS Privacy Policy, available at: https://www.qs.com/terms-and-conditions/privacy-policy