These are a few design competitions that feature the best in graphic design, motion, interactive and illustration. Not only is it great to look to for inspiration, but many of these also sponsor student competitions. It is highly recommended to enter competitions as a student, it says a lot to get into a highly competitive venue, but it also shows that you are serious enough about your design work to enter. The exposure can be amazing, you can get a call from anywhere in the world if your work is showcased in a national competition.
Professional Competitions (with some student categories included)
Art Directors Club of Denver
Communication Arts
AIGA
Print Magazine
HOW Magazine
Young Professionals
Student Oriented Competitions
Art Directors Club of Denver Student Show
CMYK Magazine
Computer Arts
Adobe Achievement Awards
The One Show College Competition
Interactive Focused
FWA
Webby Awards
SXSW Interactive Awards
Illustration & Photography Focused
Society of Illustrators
American Illustration & American Photography
3 X 3 Magazine
Motion Graphics
SXSW Title Awards
Motionographer Cream
Advertising Oriented
Denver 50 Ad Club
The One Show