Apply for the Varkey Foundation Global Student Prize

Application Deadline: April 24, 2025

The Varkey Foundation, in partnership with Chegg.org, has officially opened nominations for the highly anticipated Global Student Prize 2025. This international student award honors exceptional young people making a real difference in their communities, classrooms, and across the globe. With a grand prize of $100,000, the award recognizes the most inspiring and impactful students from around the world.

Launched to celebrate students who go beyond academic excellence, the Global Student Prize highlights achievements in leadership, innovation, social impact, and resilience. It shines a spotlight on young changemakers who are transforming lives through their actions and ideas.

About the Global Student Prize

The Global Student Prize is an annual award that celebrates students who:

• Demonstrate academic excellence
• Inspire and support their peers
• Make a positive difference in their communities
• Overcome significant personal challenges
• Drive innovation through creativity
• Promote global citizenship and cross-cultural collaboration

The prize aims to elevate the role of students as influential voices in shaping a better future for all.

Who Can Apply?

The Global Student Prize 2025 is open to students who meet the following criteria:

• Must be at least 16 years old
• Currently enrolled in a school, college, university, or skills training program
• Open to part-time, full-time, and online students
• Open to students in every country, subject to local laws

Students from all educational backgrounds, including traditional institutions and alternative learning environments, are encouraged to apply.

Prize Amount

• Total Award: $100,000
• Funding Support: Provided by Chegg.org and the Varkey Foundation

This generous award helps amplify student-led initiatives, fund educational goals, or scale social impact projects that benefit communities worldwide.

Judging Criteria

To select the winner, the judging panel evaluates candidates based on six key areas:

1. Academic Excellence

Applicants should show a strong record of academic performance, including grades, research work, academic awards, or creative projects.

2. Peer Impact

Students who have mentored others, supported classmates, or led youth engagement programs demonstrate leadership and compassion.

3. Community Contribution

Nominees should have a proven track record of giving back—whether through volunteering, activism, community organizing, or advocacy.

4. Resilience and Determination

Special recognition goes to students who have overcome adversity such as health issues, financial hardship, displacement, discrimination, or caregiving responsibilities.

5. Creativity and Innovation

Creative thinkers and innovators—whether artists, coders, entrepreneurs, or content creators—are encouraged to showcase their original projects or ideas that drive change.

6. Global Citizenship

Candidates who foster international collaboration, break cultural barriers, or support education access across borders are highly valued.

Key Dates and How to Apply

• Nomination Deadline: April 27, 2025
• Posted on: April 9, 2025

Nominations can be submitted by students themselves or by someone else who believes in their work and potential.

Why the Global Student Prize Matters

In a time when the world is facing immense challenges—from inequality to climate change—the Global Student Prize recognizes young leaders who are stepping up and creating solutions. These are the voices shaping tomorrow’s policies, technologies, and communities.

By acknowledging their efforts, the Varkey Foundation Global Student Prize not only empowers individuals but also inspires millions more to believe in the power of education and youth-driven change.

For More information and to apply, CLICK HERE