Award Levels

The AGDA Awards recognises work with Award Levels that reflect the final aggregated scores of entrants.

Pinnacle

For work that is of the absolute highest standard. Pinnacles are entries with an aggregated score of 95% or higher. Pinnacles are presented with a Glass Trophy by artisan Nick Mount.

Merit

For work of very high standard and is worthy of recognition above finalist. Merits are entries with an aggregated score of between 75% and 85%.

Judges' Choice

Each of the main jurors can select their own individual Judges' Choice. Judges' Choice selections are completely up to the individual and are not impacted by other jurors scores. 

Distinction

For work is of exceptional standard and deserves recognition above Merit. Distinctions are entries with an aggregated score of between 85% and 95%. Distinctions are presented with a Wooden (Jarrah) Trophy by artisan Nick Mount.

Finalist

For work of a high standard and is worthy of recognition in the AGDA Design Awards year. Finalists are entries with an aggregated score of between 65% and 75%.

Student Award Levels

Student Pinnacle

For work that is of the absolute highest standard. Pinnacles are entries with an aggregated score of 95% or higher. Pinnacles are presented with a Glass Trophy by artisan Nick Mount.

Student Merit

For work of very high standard and is worthy of recognition above finalist. Merits are entries with an aggregated score of between 75% and 85%.

Student Finalist

For work of a high standard and is worthy of recognition in the AGDA Student Awards year. Finalists are entries with an aggregated score of between 65% and 85%.

Student Distinction

For work is of exceptional standard and deserves recognition above Merit. Distinctions are entries with an aggregated score of between 85% and 95%.