Keystone Awards 2026 are open for nominations!

The 2026 Keystone Awards are now open for nominations!

The Keystone Awards celebrate the remarkable contributions of students, educators, and institutions shaping the global education landscape.

Hosted annually by Keystone Education Group, the awards highlight innovation, inclusion, academic achievement, and initiatives that drive meaningful student impact. 

For 2026, we’ve expanded our categories to recognise even more individuals, teams, and organisations across higher education and professional training. Whether you’re a student leader, research innovator, athlete, educator, or institution making a difference, these awards are an opportunity to share your story and be recognised globally. 

Award Categories 

Institution & Organisation Categories 

These categories celebrate institutions and teams driving innovation, improving outcomes, and elevating the student experience. 

• Higher Education Institution of the Year [sponsored by Keystone] 

• Outstanding Education Marketing & Recruitment Campaign [sponsored by UniQuest]  

• Outstanding Student Experience Initiative or Project [Sponsored by Beyond Abroad]  

• Outstanding Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Initiative or Project [sponsored by Keystone] 

• Outstanding Teaching & Mentorship [Sponsored by Keystone] 

• Training Provider of the Year [Sponsored by FindCourses] 

 Student Categories 

Recognising exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, creativity, or athletic achievement. 

• Student of the Year [Sponsored by FindAMasters.com] 

• International Student of the Year [Sponsored by Educations.com] 

• Research Student of the Year [Sponsored by FindAPhD.com]  

• Student Athlete of the Year [Sponsored by Keystone Sports]  

UniQuest is proud to sponsor this year's Outstanding Education Marketing & Recruitment Campaign award. 

This award celebrates a creative, data-driven, and effective higher education marketing or recruitment campaign that significantly increased engagement, awareness, or enrolments. Nominees could include any individual, team, or project that has successfully promoted a programme, course, or institution to prospective students or stakeholders.  

Judges will look for: 

• Clear objectives and strong campaign strategy. 

• Evidence of meaningful results or ROI, including metrics such as engagement, reach, leads or conversions. 

• Innovative channel use, creative messaging, or audience engagement. 

• A tangible impact on the institution’s reputation, brand, or recruitment success. 

Why nominate? 

If your team delivered a standout campaign—big or small—that moved the needle, improved conversion, or demonstrated fresh thinking, this category is your platform to shine. 

Nominate HERE 

Selected finalists will be celebrated at a virtual ceremony in Summer 2026, shining a spotlight on your institution’s accomplishments.