There's still plenty of time for you or your institution to be involved in the International Student Awards 2003/04 and take advantage of this major scheme from the British Council. But you need to act now as the closing date for student applications is fast approaching!

The International Student Awards, a campaign that was run with great success for the first time last year, is a major initiative to celebrate the achievements of international students studying in the UK. They recognise international students who are making the most of their time in the UK, with an emphasis on students' wider, non-academic experiences and activities. Students who have learnt new skills, embraced new experiences, achieved personal ambitions or made a contribution to their institution or community will be recognised through the Awards scheme.

The Awards are open to international students studying full-time at UK universities, colleges, English language schools and boarding schools, on courses lasting six months or more. To enter, each student must write an imaginary 'letter home', describing his or her experiences of UK student life.

The inaugural awards scheme attracted entries from over 1700 students, representing 98 nationalities. The competition is being run entirely online this year and students can enter at:

www.educationuk.org/shine

Twelve finalists will receive a prestigious Gold or Silver Award plus up to £2000 in prize money. There will also be commendations for notable entrants. Deadline for entries is  1st March 2004 and winners will be announced in Spring 2004.