About the awards
The targetjobs Undergraduate of the Year Awards celebrate the UK’s most talented and ambitious students. We’re here to recognise undergraduates who not only shine academically but also show outstanding communication, teamwork and leadership skills — the kind that make them stand out from the crowd.
Each award is run in partnership with a top employer, offering incredible prizes like paid internships, travel experiences and exclusive career opportunities. If you want to get noticed by the best graduate recruiters in the country, this is your chance.
Why enter?
Winners and finalists don’t just walk away with prizes; they gain unforgettable experiences, connections with leading employers and a major boost to their CVs. Many past finalists have gone on to secure graduate roles thanks to the exposure and confidence they gained through the competition.
Every year, the top ten finalists for each award are invited to an iconic awards ceremony in April, where winners are announced and celebrated in style.
Who can apply?
Undergraduates from all UK universities can enter, as long as you meet the entry criteria for your chosen award (things like year of study or minimum academic requirements). You may be eligible for more than one award, but you can only submit one final application, so take time to choose the award that fits you best.
How it works
Getting started is easy — the whole application happens online and includes:
- Completing your personal profile
- Up to three online assessments from our partner SHL, a global leader in talent assessment
- A few short questions from the award sponsor (you’ll find these under “How do I win?” on each award page)
You don’t have to finish it all at once; you can save your progress and come back any time before the January deadline.
The SHL Assessments
The SHL assessments are designed to help employers understand how you think, work and solve problems. The kinds of qualities that top graduate employers look for. They’re not about trick questions or memorising answers; they’re about showing your natural strengths and how you approach challenges.
These assessments are designed to be fair, inclusive and insightful, helping both you and employers understand your potential. You’ll even gain experience with the kinds of psychometric tests used in graduate recruitment, a huge advantage when applying for internships or jobs later on.
Once assessments and applications are reviewed, shortlisted students may be invited to:
- Partner interviews or virtual assessment centres, often involving practical tasks and group discussions
- Networking opportunities with the sponsoring employer
Finally, the top ten finalists for each award are invited to the exclusive Undergraduate of the Year Awards ceremony in April, where the winners are revealed and celebrated.
What makes it worth it?
The Undergraduate of the Year Awards are the only national awards of their kind in the UK, recognised by top graduate employers. Finalists and winners benefit from:
- A standout CV achievement
- Networking opportunities with leading employers
- Real-world assessment experience
- Personal feedback to support your growth
Many past finalists say the process itself boosted their confidence, skills and employability, even before graduation.
Get ready to stand out!
Want to boost your chances?
- Read our guide to online application forms
- Familiarise yourself with the STAR technique for answering application and interview questions
- Get advice on psychometric tests
- Attend one of our exclusive events or webinars
- Research top employers using our organisation hubs
