Professional awards and scholarships play a vital role in recognizing excellence, supporting emerging talent, and advancing the future of architecture. From honoring innovative design and leadership to providing critical financial support for students and early-career professionals, these opportunities help shape meaningful careers and elevate the profession as a whole. Below is a curated list of architecture awards and scholarship opportunities that celebrate achievement, encourage growth, and invest in the next generation of architects.

Due Sept. 16, 2026

AIA NoVA 2027 Pathway to Licensure Program
The selected recipient for the 2027 Pathway to Licensure Program will receive financial support to cover the cost of six tests.

Due Sept. 18, 2026

Cape Charles Railroad and Harbor Ideas Competition
The competition seeks innovative and visionary concepts to inform a new master plan that is being developed for the harbor area.

Due Oct. 1, 2026

Fellowship
Be recognized with AIA’s highest membership honor for exceptional work and contributions to architecture and society.

Honorary Fellowship
Honoring international architects for exceptional work and contributions to architecture and society.

Due November 3, 2026

Twenty-five Year Award
Awarded to a building that has set an architectural design standard of excellence for 25-35 years.

Housing Award
Recognizes the best in home design—showcasing how beauty, safety, sustainability, and comfort can come together.

Regional & Urban Design Award
Recognizes the best in urban design, regional and city planning, and community development.

Small Project Award
Raises public awareness of the value and design excellence that architects provide regardless of the limits of size and budget.

Justice Facility Award
Recognizes best practices in planning and design for buildings that directly support the justice system.

Education Facility Design Award
Celebrates state-of-the-art learning environments.

Design for Aging Award
Recognizes architects who demonstrate innovative design solutions to improve the quality of life for older adults.

AIA/ALA Library Building Award
Honors the best in library architecture and design.

Interior Architecture Award
Celebrates the most innovative and spectacular interior spaces across a range of projects.

Healthcare Design Award
Recognizes projects in health care design and planning from hospitals to outpatient centers, community clinics, and wellness facilities.

COTE® Top Ten Award
The industry’s best-known award program for sustainable design excellence.

Architecture Award
Celebrates the best in contemporary architecture—highlighting the many ways buildings and spaces can improve our lives.

Due November 15, 2026

Medal for Academic Excellence
Awarded to the top graduating students with a Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or Doctor of Architecture from schools accredited by NAAB or CACB.