Application & Judging Process

Who can apply:

The World Education Medals celebrate changemakers turning innovation into impact through the responsible use of AI in education. Applicants must demonstrate an ethical AI initiative that has been in use for at least six months. Explore below to learn who can apply, how to enter and how winners are selected.

Group of schoolchildren in uniforms happily jumping together outdoors.

Prize categories:

The World Education Medal
for Leaders

 For policymakers, EdTech founders, NGO heads, and government officials using AI to drive systemic change in education.

The World Education Medal
for Educators

 For classroom teachers, school principals, and academics applying AI to support learners and empower colleagues.

The World Education Medal
for Students

For young changemakers (aged 15–25) creating or applying AI to tackle real-world challenges through education, equity, and social good.

Student working on a robot with a laptop and tools in a classroom setting.

How judging works:


All applications go through a three-stage process:

Internal Review

We screen for eligibility and clarity.

Expert Panel

An expert panel assesses shortlisted entries against our four criteria.


Global Judging Academy

Finalists are scored by the Global Judging Academy, who then selects the winners.

Meet the judges:

Judging criteria:

We assess each application across four key areas:

Vision & Influence

A compelling vision, backed by action. We look for individuals who inspire others and influence attitudes, decisions, or direction in their field.

Use of AI

An AI initiative that’s effective, thoughtful, and human-centred. It should address real challenges in education with clear intent and impact.

Community Contribution

Beyond personal achievement, we value efforts that engage, mobilise, or uplift communities, networks, or systems for shared benefit.

Commitment to Continuity

Initiatives that are sustainable, embedded in practice, and capable of evolving over time. We look for those demonstrating persistence, adaptability and long-term commitment.

Selecting the Medallist:

Five Finalists are chosen for each Medal. Every contender is evaluated by the Global Judging Academy using detailed judging packs. The highest scorer in each category is awarded the Medal at a ceremony held in London.

Young child using a computer in a modern home office setting.

Timeline:

Timeline showing important dates: Applications open on August 7, applications close on October 10, finalists announced on December 11, and medalists announced in January 2026.
Timeline showing important dates: Applications open on August 7, applications close on October 10, finalists announced on December 11, and medalists announced in January 2026.

The World Education Medals are awarded to individuals only, not organisations. However, a person may be nominated for work they have done on behalf of an organisation.

All nominations must be submitted in English to be eligible for consideration. Please be aware that submissions in any other language will not be reviewed. While our assessment does not evaluate English proficiency, the clarity of your writing is essential for a thorough evaluation of your nomination.

Nominees can run for any of the three World Education Medals: Leaders, Educators or Students. Applicants must demonstrate how they are using Artificial Intelligence (AI) in a clear, responsible, and ethical way to drive positive change. Their initiative must have been in use for at least six months, show real impact, and align with the purpose of the Medals — recognising individuals who are using AI to transform education or address real-world problems in ways that benefit learners, communities, or society at large.

If applying under the Student category, nominees must be between 15 and 25 years old. For Leaders and Educators category, nominees must be 18 years or older. 

Terms and conditions:

By applying, you agree to comply with the terms outlined in the document. You can view the full terms and conditions on the link below.

Classroom desk with supplies, a laptop displaying a calendar, and students in the background working with pencils and smartphones.