International Students

The International Student Awards, Shine! competition 2009 is now open...

The deadline for entries is the 19th January 2009

Click here to enter and find out more information.

About Shine

The International Student Awards 2009 is an exciting competition that celebrates the achievements of international students and their contributions to life in the UK. The International Student Awards is run by the British Council, the UK's international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations.

By telling us about the things that make your time in the UK so exciting and rewarding, you can earn some well-deserved public recognition and prestige for your out-of-class achievements.

It’s easy to enter. Simply write us a letter telling us all about your time in the UK and how the UK has challenged and excited you. Our panel of judges – other students, education professionals and British Council colleagues – will choose the best letters to become shining examples of UK life for future international students.

Anyone can enter as long as you are over 15 years of age, studying at an eligible institution on a full-time course of study lasting for a minimum of six months.

Heres what you could win...

You stand an excellent chance of success because there are 36 individual cash prizes up for grabs!

The prizes are to be spread throughout the UK:

• each of 12 regional finalists will be treated to a fantastic, all-expenses paid trip to London for a two-day celebration that will include a night’s accommodation in the capital city and the chance to ‘glam-up’ for a prestigious awards’ presentation ceremony
• the overall winner – the International Student of the Year 2008 will receive £2,000 and a commemorative award
• 11 other regional finalists will receive £1,000 and a commemorative award
• 24 runners-up – two from each of 12 UK regional areas – will receive a £100 cash prize and a commemorative certificate.

If your entry impresses the judges, you could be given the opportunity to take part in some promotional activities, to help let other students know about the benefits of studying in the UK. For example, you may be asked to speak to a journalist, attend an event involving other students or representatives of academic institutions, or let us feature your story in a press release. Unsure about anything? Check our FAQs page for more help.

The International Student Awards, Shine! competition 2009 is now open...

The deadline for entries is the 19th January 2009

Click here to enter and find out more information.