When will the 2026 competition open?
Entries for the British Youth Travel Awards 2026 will open in June 2026.
I am not a member of BETA, can I still enter?
Yes. The awards are open to organisations across the UK youth, student and educational travel sector and are not exclusive to BETA members.
Is there a fee for entering the awards?
BETA Members: Free to enter
Non-members: £125 + VAT per submission
Can I enter more than one category?
Yes. You may enter as many categories as you wish, however each submission must be completed separately using the official entry forms.
I have won before – can I enter again?
Yes. Organisations may enter each year.
However, organisations that win the same category for three consecutive years will then enter the Hall of Fame for that category and will not be eligible to re-enter it the following year.
When is the entry deadline?
All submissions must be received by 5pm on 24 September 2026.
How are the winners selected?
All entries are independently reviewed and scored by the judging panel against published criteria. Judges assess both the written submission and supporting evidence before selecting finalists and winners in each category.
If I meet all of the criteria, will I definitely win an award?
Meeting the entry criteria does not guarantee an award. Winners are selected based on the overall strength of submissions within each category and the scores awarded by the judging panel.
Who are the judges?
Judges are independent professionals with expertise across tourism, education, accommodation, transport, marketing, customer experience and related sectors.
All judges are required to declare conflicts of interest and follow a confidential scoring process.
When will the shortlist be announced?
The shortlisted nominees in each category (excluding Outstanding Achievement) will be announced during the week beginning 12 October 2026.
What is the Awards Trust Mark, and what does it mean for the British Youth Travel Awards?
The Awards Trust Mark is an independent accreditation recognising well-run awards schemes.
The British Youth Travel Awards hold ‘Advanced’ level accreditation, confirming that the awards are delivered with integrity, transparency and fairness, with judging processes independently verified against recognised best practice standards.
How do I get into the Hall of Fame?
Organisations or individuals enter the Hall of Fame after winning the same category for three consecutive years.
Outstanding Achievement recipients may also be recognised within the Hall of Fame.
Visit our Hall of Fame.
When will the winners be announced?
The winners in each category will be announced at the Awards Ceremony at the UnderGlobe on 30 November 2026.
What is the dress code?
Business / formal / cocktail attire — an opportunity to dress up and celebrate the sector.
Can I attend the Awards Ceremony even if I have not entered?
Absolutely. We look forward to welcoming organisations and professionals from across the sector to join the celebrations.
