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.
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.
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.
Getting started is easy — the whole application happens online and includes:
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 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:
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.
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:
Many past finalists say the process itself boosted their confidence, skills and employability, even before graduation.
Want to boost your chances?
The Undergraduate of the Year Awards Final will take place on the 24th April, hosted at the Pelligon in Canary Wharf, London. The event brings together some of the UK's most talented undergraduates for an unforgettable experience, celebrating the incredible achievements of all students.
The 10 finalists from each award category will be invited to attend the event, alongside representatives from all of our award sponsors. The event will include a 3-course meal for all attendees, before the awards ceremony gets underway in the afternoon.
More than just an awards ceremony, the finale is an opportunity to recognise your journey to get to where you are, build meaningful connections with fellow students and leading graduate recruiters, and help to further your future career.
Each year, an exciting celebrity guest hosts the Undergraduate of the Year Awards final, bringing energy and star power to the afternoon. Previous hosts include the likes of Jamie Laing, Sue Perkins, Rachel Riley and Sir Trevor McDonald.
Our host plays a key role in making the afternoon an incredible experience for all of our attendees, shining a spotlight on the incredible achievements of all finalists, making the event an inspiring celebration.
The 2026 awards host is to be announced soon, so watch this space!