Applications open for the 2026 IDP IELTS Future Award
"It was a vote of confidence in my potential. The benefits extended beyond a single examination or certificate – it strengthened my confidence to pursue opportunities and reinforced my belief that investing in education has a ripple effect."
That's how Dr Chinenye Okafor describes receiving an IDP IELTS Future Award last year.
A dedicated medical doctor from Nigeria, Dr Okafor is using the award to further her ambition of completing a medical residency in a country where she can gain experience in world-class research and cutting-edge healthcare technology. Her goal is to specialise in obstetrics and gynaecology and contribute to improving maternal healthcare outcomes in her home country.
Her story is one of many that reflects the power of education and opportunity to change lives.
Today, IDP Education is opening applications for the 2026 IDP IELTS Future Award, giving IELTS test takers the opportunity to receive financial support as they pursue their international study, career and migration ambitions.
The program will award up to six recipients globally with USD $5,000 each to help them take the next step towards their goals. The award is open to eligible IELTS test takers across participating markets who have taken an in-centre IELTS test with IDP.
Supporting ambition beyond the test
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world's most recognised, reliable and secure English language test for studying, working and migrating to English-speaking countries.
For millions of people each year, IELTS is more than a test. It is a gateway to new opportunities, whether that's gaining admission to a university, advancing a career, pursuing professional registration or building a new life in another country.
The IELTS Future Award was created to recognise the ambition, determination and potential behind those aspirations.
The award supports IELTS test takers who are pursuing opportunities through education, work and migration, and who have the potential to make a positive impact in their communities. From future healthcare professionals and educators to entrepreneurs and skilled migrants, the program celebrates people who are working towards a brighter future for themselves, their families and those around them.
Building on the success of last year's award
The 2026 program builds on the success of the inaugural IELTS Future Award, which spotlighted inspiring stories from test takers around the world and highlighted the role IELTS plays in helping people achieve their goals.
Applicants will be invited to share their future ambitions, explain what success in IELTS means to them, and submit a one-minute video outlining their personal journey and aspirations.
Applications will be assessed on their future goals, personal story and potential to make a difference.
Applications now open
Applications for the 2026 IDP IELTS Future Award are open from 13 July to 2 October 2026.To be eligible, applicants must:
Be 18 years of age or older
Live in the country or territory they are applying from
Have booked an in-centre IELTS Academic or General Training test with IDP
Have received IELTS results between 1 April 2025 and 18 September 2026
Participating countries and territories include Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, Nigeria and Mexico.
If you're pursuing a dream through education, work or migration, we'd love to hear your story.
Applications are now open.
Learn more and apply: https://idpieltsfutureaward.awardsplatform.com/