Frequently asked questions


How much does it cost to enter?

This year we are charging £100 per entry for the first five entries from a single institution, at which point a cap will be applied, so whether your institution submits five or 25 entries, the total charge will not exceed £500.

The reasons for bringing in this charge, and advice on how you can ensure your institution pays the minimum amount, can be found on this page.


What period do these awards relate to?

The judges will be looking for outstanding work during the 2023-24 academic year.

We will accept submissions based on projects, initiatives or endeavours that commenced prior to the 2023-24 academic year, provided that significant activity has taken place during this main period of focus. We will also accept any evidence that has come to light after the close of the 2023-24 academic year if this further underlines success.


Can we enter more than one category?

You may enter as many categories as you wish, but you must complete a unique submission for each category.


Can we enter the same submission in more than one category?

No, please choose the most appropriate category for each entry. If you are unsure which category to choose, please contact david.suter@timeshighereducation.com to discuss your options.


Can an institution enter more than one project/team in a single category?

Yes, if the entries are distinctive and unrelated, you may submit up to five entries per category. Otherwise, we advise you to combine the best elements in a stronger single entry. (Please see our Entry guidelines for further details.)


Can we enter more than one individual in a single category?

Yes, in the three categories specifically focusing on an exceptional individual, you may enter as many as you wish from your institution.


How will I know that my submission has been received?

Once you have submitted your entry you will receive an email confirming your institution name, the nominee and the category you have entered. An attachment to this email will also contain a unique Nomination code that will be quoted in future THE Awards correspondence relating to the specific entry, so please keep this for reference. If you do not receive your confirmation email, please contact THEawards@timeshighereducation.com .


Who can enter?

The awards are open to anyone involved in higher education in the UK or Ireland, with the exception of sector-wide organisations or those working with large numbers of institutions. Entries can be completed by institutions or their suppliers (for instance, PR companies), but we suggest that the institution makes the submission (see details of entry charges).


What are the specific entry form requirements?

As well as sharing the Entry guidelines , those responsible for submissions may wish to circulate the entry form requirements:

  1. Nominee or key personnel (if you wish to highlight the role of specific people)
  2. Submission title or project name (if applicable)
  3. Project URL of link to further information about your entry (if applicable – link will be published if the entry is shortlisted)
  4. Institution name *
  5. Submission text * (address specific criteria – strict limit of 500 words)
  6. Abridged submission * (this will be published if the entry is shortlisted – strict limit of 150 words)
  7. Supporting material 1
  8. Supporting material 2
  9. Upload institution logo *
  10. Secondary contact details *

* mandatory field


Are collaborative entries accepted?

Yes.

Institutions working together
If your entry relates to an initiative or project carried out in collaboration with other institutions, the submission should come from the lead institution. In such cases, please enter “ The University of X,  in collaboration with ” in the ‘Institution’ field on the entry form, or in cases where the institutions are working together under a project title, " ".

If there is no lead institution, to avoid multiple entries for the same project, please agree who will make the submission on behalf of the collaboration – please include all institution names in this situation.

Institutions working with public or private partners
If your entry relates to a collaboration with an external organisation you would like to credit, please enter "The University of X, in collaboration with" in the ‘Institution’ field on the entry form.


When does the website open for entries?

The morning of Thursday 10 April 2025.


When is the closing date for entries?

Monday 9 June 2025 at 23:55 (BST/IST).


How do I enter?

Please read our Entry guidelines first, and then go to the Categories page and click on the 'ENTER NOW' button beneath the category you wish to enter.


When will I find out if we have been shortlisted?

The full category shortlists will also be published on this website and the THE website at approximately 08:00 on Thursday 4 September 2025. A few minutes prior to publication, an confirmation email will also be sent directly to the primary contact for each successful submission.


How are the entries judged?

A distinguished panel of experts will assess the finalists, then meet to discuss their relative merits and choose the winners. All decisions are panel decisions, not those of any single judge.


Can I get feedback on my entry?

We are unfortunately not able to offer feedback on individual submissions. We now receive so many entries that it is not feasible to keep formal notes on every one.


When and where are the winners announced?

This year’s winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony which will take place at the EICC in Edinburgh on Thursday 13 November 2025. Tickets will go on sale when the shortlist is published on 4 September.


What is the programme for the evening of the ceremony?

Approximate timings:
18:30 Drinks reception
19:15 Dinner
21:45 Celebrity host's set
22:00 Winners announcements commence
23:00 End of official proceedings, but there will be further opportunities to socialise until 01:00
01:00 Close


Who should I contact if my question has not been answered above?

If you have queries relating to the categories, criteria, eligibility for entry or anything relating to your submission, please contact david.suter@timeshighereducation.com.

For queries about this year's entry charges and anything relating to the awards evening in November, please contact THEawards@timeshighereducation.com.