Develop the mindset and capabilities to be effective in any path you choose
The Employability Award is a structured program that recognises the personal and professional development you can gain from your involvement in activities above and beyond your academic studies. It is essentially a learning program that will guide you through a range of experiences and reflections to unlock your potential.
Participation is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate coursework 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
Getting Started Information Session:
Thursday 27 February, 3:00pm - 3:45pm
Watch the recording of our most recent information session to learn about the program
2024 Information Session Recording
Important dates
Semester 1, 2025 deadline - Sunday 13 April, 2025 (11:59pm)
Semester 2, 2025 deadline - Sunday 14 September, 2025 (11:59pm)
Please note: These are firm dates for your written application and no extensions will be granted. We recommend that you prepare to 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."