The competition deadline has passed. Stay tuned for 2026 updates.
International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Open to students currently enrolled at the university level, this competition aims to shed new light on the meaning and value of tall buildings in modern society. Participants are encouraged to explore and resolve the synergistic relationship between a tall building and its urban setting.
Submission Deadline
Prizes
First place
US$6,000 (US$3,500 cash + stipend to attend CTBUH 2025 Conference; up to US$2,500 value)
Second place
US$5,000 (US$2,500 cash + stipend to attend CTBUH 2025 Conference; up to US$2,500 value)
Third place
US$4,000 (US$1,500 cash + stipend to attend CTBUH 2025 Conference; up to US$2,500 value)
Fourth place
US$2,500 (Stipend to attend CTBUH 2025 Conference; up to US$2,500 value)
Fifth place
US$2,500 (Stipend to attend CTBUH 2025 Conference; up to US$2,500 value)
Honorable mentions
A select number of additional entries may be recognized and awarded a certificate.
Key Dates
Coming Soon
Jury
The competition will involve two rounds of jury review. The first-round jury will evaluate all submissions and select five finalists. A separate final-round jury—comprising prominent professionals participating in the CVU Summit—will then determine the five winners and their placements. This final jury will represent an international, multidisciplinary group of tall building experts.
Requirements
Full details of the CVU 2026 International Student Tall Building Design Competition, including submission requirements, criteria, procedures, etc. will be announced in Spring of 2026
Funding Sponsor: AECOM
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Funding Sponsor: Think Wood
2022 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Funding Sponsor: TKE Aufzugswerke GmbH
2021 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Funding Sponsor: Council on Vertical Urbanism
2020 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Funding Sponsor: Tetra Tech
2019 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Funding Sponsor: New World Development Company Limited
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2017 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Funding Sponsor: Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates
2016 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
Funding Sponsor: Plaza Construction
2015 International Student Tall Building Design Competition
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