Every year, a new wave of young changemakers proves that education is more than just a pathway to success: it’s a force for global transformation. The Global Student Prize shines a spotlight on these inspiring individuals, recognising students who are not only excelling academically but also creating meaningful impact in their communities.
Through stories of perseverance, innovation, and compassion, this award reminds the world that one student’s voice can spark widespread change. In a world where education can open doors to endless opportunities, stories like Adarsh Kumar’s remind us what determination, creativity, and compassion can achieve. Through this blog, discover how one student’s journey earned him a place among Global Student Prize winners, and why this award is creating ripples of hope for students everywhere.
Adarsh Kumar’s Journey to the Global Student Prize 2025
The Chegg.org Global Student Prize, now in its fifth year and organised in partnership with the Varkey Foundation, honours outstanding young individuals whose efforts are transforming their communities and inspiring broader change. This year, the prestigious award, which includes a $100,000 prize, went to Adarsh Kumar, an 18-year-old student from Jayshree Periwal International School. Despite his age, Adarsh’s compassion and leadership stand as a blueprint for future global student prize winners.
He founded a non-profit organisation called Mission Badlao alongside his sister-in-law. Their projects focused on tangible community impact, securing land for a new government school, facilitating over 2,000 COVID-19 vaccinations, distributing menstrual health products to underprivileged girls, and planting more than 3,000 trees to promote sustainability.
Inspiration Behind a Global Student Prize Winner’s Success
Adarsh’s achievements didn’t just start with the Global Student Prize. By age 14, Kumar had already learned that change doesn’t start with wealth or privilege; it starts with purpose. With just 1,000 rupees (about ten U.S. dollars), he travelled hundreds of miles to Kota, India, chasing his dream of academic excellence.
Even without access to traditional resources, he turned to public libraries and free Wi-Fi, transforming them into classrooms. By emailing mentors worldwide, he built a network of guidance and inspiration. That’s how the Global Student Prize application process often begins; not with luck, but with a will to try.
Through these efforts, Kumar launched Skillzo in 2023, a platform providing mentorship and entrepreneurship training for underserved high school students. His story proves that the global student prize eligibility criteria aren’t about privilege; they reward perseverance, creativity, and impact. This alone made him a unique contender for the Global Student Prize.
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Skillzo’s Impact on Education and the Global Student Prize Vision
In just two years, Skillzo has empowered more than 20,000 students across India. Many have since launched ventures, earned scholarships, and even won national awards. Kumar’s initiative shows what’s possible when young people are given access to mentorship and financial aid for students who dream big. He also became the youngest Google Youth Advisor globally, joining a select group of 52 young leaders influencing global technology and education policy. For students wondering how to apply for global student prize recognition, Adarsh’s journey shows the power of consistent impact and innovation.
Celebrating the Spirit of Global Student Prize Winners
Adarsh’s achievements were celebrated near London, where he stood out among nearly 11,000 nominations from 148 countries. His humility and gratitude touched hearts when he said, “I’m truly honoured, I’m truly grateful to be here. It’s a dream moment for me.”
Sunny Varkey, founder of the Varkey Foundation, praised his story as a reminder that education remains humanity’s greatest gift. His words echo through the stories of countless global student prize winners, proving that success is not just about grades; it’s about giving back.
How Students Can Apply
If you’re passionate about change, leadership, or innovation, the global student prize application process is your opportunity to be seen and supported. The award is open to students aged 16 or older who are enrolled in any form of education, whether part-time, online, or informal training.
This inclusivity means that every student, regardless of location or circumstance, has a shot. Plus, the prize doesn’t stop at recognition. It opens doors to college scholarships for students, overseas education funding, and international exposure that can transform a learner’s journey forever.
The Global Student Prize and Its Lasting Legacy
Beyond the money, this awards build a community of problem-solvers who believe education is a force for good. It’s part of a larger initiative that includes the $1 million Global Teacher Prize and the newly introduced Global Schools Prize. Together, these programs highlight how innovation in classrooms leads to transformation across societies. By celebrating these achievements, the prize redefines success, not as a destination, but as an ongoing journey of learning and giving.
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Lessons from a Adarsh’s Journey
Adarsh’s story isn’t just inspiring. It’s practical. It teaches us that change starts with one small act of courage. Whether you’re from a small town or a big city, your determination can turn barriers into stepping stones. So if you’ve ever thought about applying for college scholarships for students or wondered how to make a difference in your community, start where you are. Your story could be the next to inspire millions, and maybe even earn you a spot among global student prize winners.
The Future Shaped by the Global Student Prize
The Global Student Prize is a reminder that education can create ripple effects far beyond the classroom. Adarsh Kumar’s story shows us that young people, with the right mindset and resources, can spark real change. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to apply or take the first step, this is it. Explore how to apply for global student prize programs or seek financial aid for students that align with your goals. Your effort today might just become the story that changes someone else’s tomorrow.
FAQs
1. What is the Global Student Prize?
The Global Student Prize is a $100,000 award recognising exceptional students making significant contributions to their communities through innovation, leadership, and service.
2. Who is eligible for the Global Student Prize?
According to the global student prize eligibility criteria, applicants must be at least 16 years old and currently enrolled in any educational or skills-based training program, including online or part-time learning.
3. How can I apply for the Global Student Prize?
To apply for the global student prize, visit the official Chegg.org website, fill out the application form, and showcase your work, impact, and vision for change.
4. What benefits come with the Global Student Prize?
Beyond the monetary award, recipients gain access to global networks, mentorship opportunities, and potential college scholarships for students and overseas education funding programs.
5. How can I increase my chances of being among the Global Student Prize winners?
Focus on community impact, consistency, and innovation. Share measurable results, and demonstrate leadership in solving real-world problems.
