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 June 03, 2026

Design for Aging Student Competition
The aim of this competition is to inspire innovative design solutions that foster meaningful intergenerational connections and prioritize the well-being of older adults.

HCD/ACSA Housing Education Prize
The Housing Education Prize is a call for proposals for innovative courses and educational activities focused on housing in schools of architecture. Up to three (3) proposals will be selected by the jury for five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) in cash prizes. 

Due June 12, 2026

AIA Virginia Call for Nominations: 2026 Honors Awards
Nominations are now being accepted! The Honors program recognizes the best efforts of Virginians who — by profession or avocation — have made creating, preserving, and enhancing Virginia’s communities an important life commitment.

Call for Presentations: Environments for Aging Conference + Expo
Share your expertise with leaders in senior living design, development, and operations at the 2027 Environments for Aging Conference. 

Due June 26, 2026

AIA Virginia Design Awards
AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years. Also known as the Design Awards, the program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners.

Due June 30, 2026

2026 VANOMA Diversity ARE Scholarship Application
Up to 2 winners will receive $750 each in reimbursements for exams, study programs, books, and practice questions. Additionally, this year’s recipients will also receive 1 year of free VANOMA membership.

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 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.