Best of GradCon Awards & Judging Criteria
Judging Round 1
For students who self-select into consideration for a "Best of GradCon" award: Your abstract/artist statement (~300 words) will be reviewed by the judges during Round 1 of judging. Judges will pick the “Top” submissions in the listed categories, based on this rubric. Your submission should compel the judges to want to learn more. Abstract Rubric.
Judging Round 2
Uploading final version of presentation & video component: You will be notified by February 13, 2026 at your NetID email if you have been requested to move to the 2nd round of judging. Round 2 requires uploading either the final version of the poster or oral presentation slides ALONG with uploading the MP4 video accompaniment to ScholarWorks by Monday, February 23 at NOON.
The video accompaniment encompasses a 10-minute presentation of the research. Oral presentations must be no longer than 15 minutes. If the video has not been uploaded by the deadline, the submission will be disqualified.
Tailoring the presentation to a general audience is one of the most important factors in obtaining a “Best of GradCon” Award, so take the time to get it right. This is an excellent opportunity to introduce yourself and to explain the importance of your project. Presentations will be judged based on the Presentation Rubric.
Awards Categories
Best of GradCon Awards - UM Graduate School will be awarding $300 for the best entries in the following categories.
There will be 5 awards in total:
- Best Oral Presentation in STEM
- Best Oral Presentation in Humanities and Social Sciences
- Best Poster Presentation in STEM
- Best Poster Presentation in Humanities and Social Sciences
- Best Visual and Performing Arts Presentation (includes creative writing)
At this time, Professional Experiences submissions are not eligible for Best of GradCon Awards.
Awardees will be announced (ONLY) during the GradCon Award Ceremony on March 6 in the UC Ballroom (3rd floor). More information will be sent to your NetID email in February. View Past Awardees.