Auslandsschulen

DIHK Competition for German Schools Abroad – Students Build Bridges Worldwide

With the DIHK International School Competition under the motto "Students build bridges worldwide," the DIHK promotes outstanding projects of German international schools. The focus is on ideas that interlink economy, society, and education – from digital innovation and sustainability projects to new forms of career and study orientation. The competition is announced every two years and serves as an essential showcase for the international schools' commitment worldwide.

Overview

The DIHK International School Competition targets around 135 German international schools in over 70 countries. It awards projects where students develop their ideas, take responsibility, and actively network with partners in business, science, or civil society. The competition provides attractive total funding; the contributions are evaluated by an independent jury from education, business, and the chamber community.

Call for entries and dates

Schüler sitzen in Uniform an Tischen

Apply now: 10th German Chamber of Commerce and Industry Competition for German Schools Abroad

The 10th German Chamber of Commerce and Industry competition for German schools abroad for 2026|2027 is kicking off. The application deadline is October 31, 2026. The award ceremony and closing event will be held in May 2027 in Berlin.

Benefits for School & Economy

German international schools are a central part of Germany's foreign economic relations. They convey German educational standards, promote multilingualism, and strengthen exchanges between countries and cultures. At the same time, they are crucial partners for companies looking for young talents with an international profile. The International School Competition highlights this potential – showcasing how young people worldwide build bridges that extend far beyond everyday school life.

Participation

Each international school can submit project ideas that have been significantly shaped by students. Key criteria include:

  • Students' initiative and innovative strength
  • Practical relevance and economic proximity, e.g., collaboration with companies, IHKs, or AHKs
  • Sustainability and long-term impact
  • Transferability to other schools

The best projects are honored biennially at the AHK World Conference – an additional opportunity to showcase the results internationally.

Further information can be found in the dossier "International Schools".

Contact

Porträtfoto Jan Kuper

Jan Kuper

Director New Developments in Continuing Vocational Education

Heiberger, Jana_quad

Jana Heiberger

Director Career Orientation, Vocational School, STEM Promotion