To apply for the 2026 University of the Year Open International Competition, choose the most appropriate single category for your entry and continue the nomination process. Submissions should consist of up to 700 words of text, specifically addressing the key criteria set out in the relevant category. Submissions should demonstrate what was unique about your institution and its achievements in 2025-26. If your entry is based on a long-term strategy that has come to fruition during this period, we will accept information dating from the outset.
On this website, you will be able to see not just who has been recognized as the winners but also what they have been recognized for, and others will be able to see a collection of the best higher education stories of the year in one place. Therefore, when filling out the form, carefully review the information you provided, as it will be published on the website if your entry wins.
You may also attach supporting documents. If you wish to submit tables, graphics, etc., these should be included within your supporting materials, not as part of the submission text.
In addition, the Rector/Chancellor of the University can be nominated for the "Rector of the Year 2026" title. To nominate a rector, please check the appropriate box on this form, write Rector's brief biography and information about recent achievements, and upload a photo portrait and thematic photos.
Please note that once you have started the application, you will not be able to save it and come back at a later date. Prepare your answers beforehand.
If you have any problems with your application, please contact the competition team.
Good luck!
I confirm that the information given on this form is true, complete and accurate and that none of the information requested or other material information has been omitted. I accept that if it is discovered that I have supplied false, inaccurate or misleading information, IARC reserves the right to cancel my application or withdraw its offer and I shall have no claim against IARC in relation thereto.
Information we collect
Personal information and contact details (emails, phones, and addresses) will only be used within IARC. We do not provide it to anyone outside IARC.
E-mail policy
E-mail addresses will only be used within IARC. We do not sell or rent e-mail addresses to anyone outside IARC. We may use e-mail addresses for the following purposes:
• Answer your e-mails;
• Send information that you requested;
• Request information concerning your participation in our projects and programs;
• Deliver IARC services such as newsletters (you can unsubscribe if you are not interested in);
• Notify you about new special offers, upgrades and other related information from the IARC.
I agree that the information and materials contained in the fields of this form, excluding contact details (emails, phones, and addresses), can be reproduced on open resources, including Internet resources.
Registration fee for participation in the International Competition “University of the Year” is $795 USD for each category and each nomination. Once your application is approved, you will receive via email an invoice to make your payment.
If a Rector is nominated for the Rector of the Year award, an additional registration fee of $595 USD will be applied.
Registration is deemed to be complete if a Contestant has submitted his completed application form and paid the registration fee.
The payment is non-refundable.
Copyright © 2026. International Achievements Research Center, Inc.
