Develop the mindset and capabilities to be effective in any path you choose
The Employability Award helps you make the most of your university experience by recognising the skills, knowledge and confidence you develop through activities beyond your studies. Through a combination of meaningful experiences, reflection and career development learning, you'll build a stronger understanding of your strengths, articulate your capabilities, and prepare for your future career.
Participation is open to all students studying at UQ.
Information sessions
Want to know more about the Employability Award? Attend one of our information sessions, open to all undergraduate students and staff members, or book a one-on-one appointment.
Upcoming Employability Award Sessions
Trivia & Treats: by the Employability Award
Monday 27 July, 4pm - 5:30pm
Learn more & register
Getting started
Monday 3 August, 4pm - 4:45pm
Learn more & register In Person or Online
Recording available here
BuddyUp Mixer
Tuesday 4 August, 1pm - 3pm
Learn more & register (TBC)
BuddyUp Hub
Weekly during semester, 12pm - 2pm
Learn more & register (TBC)
Student executives: Leading with Impact
Tuesday 11 August, 10am - 11am
Learn more & register
Making it count workshop
Tuesday 25 August, 11am - 12pm
Learn more & register in-person or online
Final Steps: Applying to achieve your Employability Award
Tuesday 1 September, 11am - 12pm
Learn more & register in-person or online
Important dates
For students who have met the requirements and wish to achieve their award, you can apply via your StudentHub workflow:
Semester 2, 2026 application deadline
Sunday 13 September, 2026 (11:59pm)
Semester 1, 2027 application deadline
Sunday 11 April, 2027 (11:59pm)
Please note: These are firm dates for your written application and no extensions will be granted. We recommend that you prepare and submit your application early to avoid disappointment.
Got Questions?
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions or email us
Benefits for students
Completion of the Award program is a rewarding process in itself. Other benefits include:
- The opportunity to become a reflective practitioner.
- Receive a digital certificate endorsed by the Vice-Chancellor and Academic Registrar,
- Access to professional development workshops and networking events; and
- Creating a greater sense of belonging by becoming more actively engaged at UQ and within the wider community.
Opportunity awaits
Hear how Yunan used the Award program to seize new opportunities for development and shifted her mindset along the way.
Kai-Yu, 2025 Award Recipient
"The Employability Award program has been a powerful source of motivation for me, constantly driving me to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new opportunities. Through trying, experiencing, learning, and sometimes failing, I realised that every challenge was an opportunity for continuous improvement. From volunteering and student leadership to internships, each experience helped me grow and refine my skills.
If you’re feeling unsure about joining the Employability Award program, let me tell you—you absolutely should! This program isn’t just a checklist or a title. It’s a roadmap that helps you grow, connect, and shine in a completely new environment. I used it as a guide to help me navigate this new world, one step at a time. I ended my journey not just as an international student, but as someone who found their voice, contributed meaningfully to the community, and became more confident in who I am."
Prachi, 2025 Award Recipient
"My Employability Award experience has been incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. I joined the program because I wanted to make the most of my time at UQ as an international student, and build skills that would support my future career.
The most important thing I learnt through the Award was the power of reflection. Regularly evaluating my skills, goals, and progress helped me become a more intentional learner and future professional. I also appreciated how the Award encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and actively build professional networks.
My advice for future participants is: don’t wait for the “perfect” opportunity—get involved early and try a mix of experiences. Each activity contributes something unique to your growth, and the program gives you a safe space to learn and improve."