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A refreshed Stellify Award launches this academic year

24 Aug 2026

New students, new award, new opportunities. Learn about the refreshed Stellify Award and the key messages colleagues need to know ahead of the academic year.

Stellify

This academic year sees the launch of a refreshed Stellify Award, the University's personal development award that helps students build skills, broaden their experiences and make a positive contribution beyond the classroom.

Designed to support Manchester's commitment to social responsibility, student success and preparing graduates to make a difference in the world, Stellify encourages students to take part in experiences that develop leadership, global awareness, employability and community engagement alongside their academic studies.

With a new award structure launching for students starting in September 2026, there are some important changes for colleagues to be aware of ahead of the new academic year.

What's changing?

From September 2026, new undergraduate students will join a redesigned Stellify Award. The new award introduces a more flexible, points-based approach that enables students to build a programme of activities that reflects their interests, aspirations and personal development goals.

Students will work towards the award by earning points across four themes:

  • Making a Difference
  • Becoming a Global Citizen
  • Developing my Skills
  • Shaping my Future

To achieve the award, students will complete activities across these themes and work towards an overall points target. Activities and evidence are recorded through Canvas.

A transition year for Stellify

This year, colleagues may encounter students following different versions of the award.

Students due to graduate in June 2027 will continue on the existing Stellify Award structure. Returning students who are not in their final year can choose whether to remain on the current award or move to the new version, while new undergraduate students joining the University from September 2026 will automatically begin the redesigned award.

As a result, some students may be working towards different requirements depending on when they started their studies and which route they have chosen.

What colleagues need to know

You do not need to be an expert in the detail of the award, but awareness of the changes will help you support students and provide consistent information.

Students may ask:

  • Which version of the award applies to me?
  • Why am I completing a different award from other students?
  • How does the new award work?
  • Where can I find further guidance?

The most important thing is understanding that two award routes will operate during the transition period and knowing where to signpost students for further information.

Your role

For most academic and student-facing colleagues, the role is straightforward: be aware of the changes, encourage engagement where appropriate and help students access the right information and support. Our Stellify Award for Undergraduates webpage answers many of the questions students may have and should be the first place you advise they look for information and guidance.

By ensuring students receive clear and consistent messages about Stellify, colleagues can help them make the most of the opportunities available and gain experiences that complement their academic studies, develop their skills and prepare them to have a positive impact beyond Manchester.

Find out more