Award Categories

EFYE Leader / EFYE Champion

Recognises individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership or influence in enhancing the first-year experience in their institutional or national context.

EFYE Rising Star

Celebrates emerging talent with great potential to make a significant impact on the first-year experience in the future. This award highlights promising contributions and creative ideas.

EFYE Team

Honors collaborative efforts by a team whose joint initiatives have positively influenced the first-year experience. It highlights the benefits and impact of teamwork in achieving notable outcomes.

EFYE Research 

Acknowledges outstanding research with national or international recognition that advances understanding and practice in first-year experiences. This award emphasises research output with significant benefits to students and/or staff.

A diverse panel of experienced FYE practitioners from across Europe, chaired by a member of the EFYE committee, will review all nominations. Submissions will be evaluated based on the criteria outlined in the nomination form.

Award winners will be recognised at the EFYE 2026 Conference and receive the prestigious EFYE Fellow title and earn a dedicated session at EFYE 2027 to share their work.

All nominees will be celebrated during the EFYE 2026 Conference. While attendance is not required for nominees, we warmly encourage you to join us in person if possible. Don’t miss this opportunity to shine a spotlight on outstanding contributions to the First Year Experience. Submit your nomination and help us recognise the leaders, rising stars, and collaborative teams shaping the future of student transitions in Europe.