The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization is inviting applications and nominations for the 2026 UNESCO International Literacy Prize for individuals and organizations promoting literacy education worldwide.
The UNESCO International Literacy Prize will reward outstanding literacy programmes and projects with medals, diplomas, and cash prizes of up to $30,000 for selected winners.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
- Category: Competitions
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: $30,000 Prize | Diploma | Medals
- No IELTS Required
- Deadline: May 18, 2026
Scholarship Details
Applications are currently open for the 2026 UNESCO International Literacy Prizes. UNESCO is encouraging literacy education specialists, organizations, and institutions around the world to submit entries and nominations for projects that significantly contribute to literacy learning and development.
For the 2026 edition, participating programmes are expected to align with the theme, “Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace.” The theme emphasizes the importance of multilingualism in today’s society and highlights how first-language-based multilingual education can strengthen mutual respect, cultural understanding, and community identity.
The prizes recognize innovative and impactful literacy initiatives that advance education and promote peace through inclusive learning approaches across different communities globally.
Eligibility Criteria
To be qualified for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize, applicants must:
- Be governments, non-governmental organizations, or individuals
- Contribute to the promotion and advancement of literacy learning
- Have projects or programmes focused on literacy education and development
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants of the UNESCO International Literacy Prize will receive:
- UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (3 Awards):
- Medal
- Diploma
- US$20,000 Prize
- UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 Awards):
- Medal
- Diploma
- US$30,000 Prize
How to Apply
To apply for the UNESCO International Literacy Prize:
- Visit the official UNESCO application webpage
- Submit applications through the online nomination platform
- Applications should be submitted through:
- The National Commission for UNESCO in the programme’s country, or
- An NGO in official partnership with UNESCO
- Nominations will be evaluated by an independent International Jury made up of five experts
- Final winners will be selected by the UNESCO Director-General and announced during the International Literacy Day celebration
For more information about the application and nomination process, click HERE
To receive more scholarship updates, click HERE
To join EDUSPUR WhatsApp Channel, click HERE
