Not Just About Your Final Project

Many students think they can only submit their dissertation or major final-year project to something like the GUA. That is not the case! GUA accepts a wide variety of coursework, including essays, reports, research projects and portfolios. The main requirement is that the work achieved an A grade or equivalent when it was marked.

This means if you have created something outstanding during your undergraduate degree, even if it was in your earlier years, it could still be eligible. Perhaps you wrote a strong essay in your second year, created a compelling visual art piece in a 3rd year module or completed a brilliant lab project as a group in 1st year. If it meets the quality standard, it can be submitted.

The range of accepted coursework reflects the awards’ commitment to rewarding academic excellence in all forms, across all disciplines.

Why submit to GUA?

Submitting your work to the Global Undergraduate Awards is about more than winning a medal. It is a chance to gain international recognition, connect with a global network of high-achieving students and open doors for future opportunities.

GUA recognises students on three levels: Highly Commended Entrants, Regional Winners and Global Winners. Highly Commended entries are published online in the Undergraduate Library and Global Winners receive a gold medal, fully funded travel and a free ticket to attend the annual GUA Global Summit.

These awards celebrate not just academic success but also the creativity, effort and insight behind your coursework. Being recognised by GUA can strengthen your CV, enhance your postgraduate applications and make you stand out in the job market.

How to Submit your Coursework

Submitting to GUA is a straightforward process, but there are a few steps to follow:

1. Check eligibility

You must be in the final or penultimate year of your undergraduate degree at the time of submission, or have graduated in the previous academic year. This means you are eligible if you are close to completing your degree or have recently completed it. Your submission must have received an A grade or the equivalent standard. If your coursework was completed in another language, it should be translated into English before submission.

2. Choose your category

There are 25 academic categories to choose from, including sciences, humanities, arts, social sciences and more. The subject of your coursework should guide which category you submit to. If unsure, ask your lecturer or supervisor, or contact GUA for support.

3. Prepare your abstract or artist’s statement

Most submissions require an abstract (100 to 300 words) explaining the focus and value of your work – Read out Tips to Improve Yours. For portfolio-based categories like architecture or visual arts an artist’s statement is required (300 to 1,500 words). This is your opportunity to help judges understand what you have created and why it matters.

4. Anonymise your work

To ensure a fair judging process, all submissions must be anonymous. Remove your name, university, course code, supervisor’s name and any identifying details. You can include place names relevant to your research, but not anything that could reveal your identity.

5. Upload your submission

Convert your coursework to a PDF file (under 20MB), and register via the Award Force platform. You will also be asked to upload your CV or resume, which does not need to be anonymised. Your CV may help secure sponsorship for attending the summit if you win.

You can submit up to three pieces of coursework, each in a different category if you choose. Group projects are accepted in selected categories, but all authors must give consent, meet the eligibility requirements and nominate one person to submit on behalf of the group.

What Makes a Strong Submission?

Strong submissions to GUA are clear, well-written, original and demonstrate critical thinking. Whether your work is theoretical, creative or practical, judges look for a strong argument, effective communication and thoughtful analysis. A compelling abstract or statement can help highlight the strengths of your work and place it in context.

You are welcome to revise your coursework before submitting. GUA encourages you to incorporate feedback from your lecturer or supervisor to make your work as strong as possible.

What are the Benefits?

Winning or being highly commended in GUA is a significant achievement. It shows that your academic work stands out among students across the world. It can also:

• Increase your confidence in your academic ability
• Help you connect with an international community of students and professionals
• Provide valuable content for job or postgraduate applications
• Free travel and networking opportunities through the GUA Global Summit
  
  

Perhaps most importantly, GUA gives your coursework a lasting life beyond university. Being published in the Undergraduate Library means your ideas can reach a global audience and contribute to wider academic conversations.

Final Thoughts

If you are proud of a piece of coursework, don’t keep it to yourself. The Global Undergraduate Awards is a unique and accessible way to share your work, gain recognition and join a community of ambitious students and graduates. Your dissertation is not your only option. That second-year essay, that group project or that creative portfolio could all be award-winning.

So, take a look back through your best work, choose a piece you are proud of and submit it before our deadline. It could be the start of something much bigger than you expected.

Good Luck with your Submission and follow us on socials for more tips and information