Young Designers Wanted: iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD 2026

• The competition categories are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 1–15), inviting design solutions that address pressing global challenges.

• A total of EUR 50,000 in prize money will be awarded to the most outstanding concepts.

The iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD 2026 is seeking design solutions from young students that address social, ecological, or technological challenges – making a meaningful contribution to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Registrations are now open until 28 January 2026 at: www.ifdesign.com.

The iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD is one of the world’s most prestigious design competitions for students and recent graduates. Each year, over 7,000 design concepts from more than 80 countries are submitted, showcasing the creativity and vision of the next generation of designers. In collaboration with dedicated sponsors, iF Design provides a global platform for future-oriented ideas and actively supports emerging talent. The most innovative entries are honored with a total of EUR 50,000 in prize money. Winners are celebrated at a festive awards ceremony, previously held at iconic venues such as the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao and the Triennale di Milano. In 2026, the ceremony will take place in the World Design Capital Frankfurt RheinMain.

Important dates at a glance:

Registration deadline: 28 January 2026
Online Jury: 4 – 13 March 2026
Final Jury in Berlin: 24 April 2026
Awards Ceremony in Frankfurt: 10 – 11 June 2026

The competition categories align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (1-15):

No Poverty / Zero Hunger / Good Health and Well-being / Quality Education / Gender Equality / Clean Water and Sanitation / Affordable and Clean Energy / Decent Work and Economic Growth / Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure / Reduced Inequalities / Sustainable Cities and Communities / Responsible Consumption and Production / Climate Action / Life Below Water / Life on Land

Procedure and jury process:

1. Online Jury: In March 2026, an international jury of experts will evaluate all submissions based on five evaluation criteria. The 300 best concepts will be shortlisted and qualified for the final jury.

2. Final Jury: On 24 April 2026, the final jury will gather in Berlin to select the winners and allocate the EUR 50,000 prize money to the most outstanding and forward-thinking design concepts.

The evaluation criteria

The international jury of experts for the iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD 2026 will be evaluating all entries based on five relevant criteria. The concepts must achieve above-average scores in answering the following questions:

• Does it solve a problem?

• Does it reflect or promote high moral-ethical standards?

• Does it strengthen group relations?

• Does it make economic sense?

• Does it create a positive experience?

All advantages at a glance:

• International recognition

• Prize money totaling EUR 50,000

• Presentation of projects on a global platform

• Access to an international network of design experts

• Free participation

The Sponsors

We extend our sincere gratitude to our renowned sponsors, whose invaluable support makes it possible to offer young designers high-quality and sustainable opportunities:

• GROHE, Germany

• Compal, Taiwan

• Wonderland, Taiwan

• Casarte, China

• Xiaomi, China