international student awards 2026
24 June 2026

Nominations open for 2026 Study NT International Student Awards

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Study NT International Student Awards, celebrating the outstanding achievements and contributions of international students, alumni and the local employers who have supported their career journey in the Northern Territory.

The awards recognise the role international students, alumni, and their employers play in strengthening the Territory’s cultural, social and economic connections, while reinforcing the Northern Territory as a welcoming and multicultural study destination. As the Territory’s sixth-largest export and second-largest services export, international education supports jobs, strengthens skilled workforces and contributes to a vibrant, diverse community.

This year, the Awards program marks a significant milestone, celebrating its 10th anniversary! 

The ceremony (scheduled for 18 November 2026) will also be held alongside the 10th annual Study NT Student Ambassador Graduation, recognising 20 Student Ambassadors who have helped promote the Northern Territory as a study destination over the past year.

Nominations close at 5pm on 20 July 2026. 

Award categories for 2026 are:

International Student of the Year
  • Nominations are encouraged for students who provide exceptional peer support, demonstrate outstanding academic achievements, and act as a role model for other international students in the NT.
Volunteer of the Year
  • This award recognises international students’ selfless involvement and contributions to the NT community, highlighting their impact with personal growth and outcomes.
Alum of the Year
  • Former international students who have studied and still reside in the NT should be nominated for their career achievements and contributions to the local community. 
Employer of the Year
  • To be nominated by a current international student or graduate, this award recognises businesses in the NT that employ international students or graduates at a casual, part-time or full-time capacity, and contributed to their career journey.

For more information on the award categories and nominee eligibility, or to submit a nomination, visit International Student Awards - Celebrating 10 years

 

Gilbert 2025 winner

2025 International Student of the Year, Gilbertofer Tanoto, reflects:

“I came to the NT with a laptop and big dreams. Now I’m teaching, creating, capturing moments, inspiring others, and learning every day. The NT truly has a funny way of turning students into storytellers.”

Minister Cahill of International Education reinforces:

“The Territory has a world-class international education sector. These awards recognise the talent and dedication of our students and the employers who support them and celebrate the achievements and contributions they make to our local community.”

To learn more about previous Awards winners and finalists, visit Awards