2025 WA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL STUDENT OF THE YEAR
The CISWA WA International School Student of the Year Award recognises the remarkable contributions that international students make to Western Australia. Each year, CISWA has celebrated an international school student who has demonstrated academic excellence and enhanced the student experience both at school and within the wider community.
When selecting the recipient, careful consideration was given to the student’s achievements and contributions during their time in Australia, with particular emphasis on activities that fostered engagement with Australian students and the local community.
The accomplishments of the winning student will be highlighted across the education sector through peak bodies, higher education media, and the CISWA website.
Sponsored by the Department of Education, the award was presented at the StudyPerth AGM & End of Year event on 11 December, along with a certificate, trophy, and $500 prize, formally acknowledging the student’s outstanding impact.
🏆2025 WA International School Student of the Year
Winner: Yan-Rong (Avril) Chen – Greenwood College
Sponsored by Department of Education, Western Australia
Photo: Rod Jones, Chairman, StudyPerth and Joe Bontempo, Manager, International Education of the Department of Education presenting Avril with her award.
This year’s winner!
Ms Yan-Rong (Avril) Chen from Greenwood College is the recipient of this year’s award.
Yan-Rong (Avril) Chen is an outstanding recipient of the International Student of the Year Award, exemplifying academic excellence, leadership, and community engagement. Avril has consistently excelled in her studies, earning numerous subject awards, two High Flyer accolades, and a Certificate of Distinction for WACE in Year 11. As a proud member of the prestigious ‘90s Club’ with a predicted ATAR above 95, she has demonstrated exceptional academic ability and commitment to learning.
Beyond academics, Avril has made significant contributions to her school and the wider Perth community. She has actively volunteered for initiatives such as Greenwood College’s Sustainability Week and the Dalmain Primary School Science Expo, where she inspired younger students through hands-on experiments. Avril’s leadership shines through her involvement in the City of Joondalup Youth Forum, her role as a Year 10 Student Councillor, and her participation in programs like Curtin Rising Scholars in Business Innovation. Balancing these responsibilities with part-time work, Avril demonstrates maturity, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose. Her ability to lead, serve, and inspire others makes her a role model for her peers and a true ambassador for international education.
The panel agreed that all nominees in this category were of an outstanding standard. They commented that this year’s nominations were of the highest calibre we have seen to date. We strongly encourage all the students nominated this year to apply again next year – if they are still eligible.
Congratulations to Yan-Rong (Avril) Chen—and congratulations also to the other three nominated students on their exceptional achievements.
2026 Key Dates
- Applications open: September
- Applications close: 1November
- Judging completed/Winners advised: late November
- Awards event: December (evening)
- All award winners announced at StudyPerth AGM and End of Year Event
Selection Criteria
In 500 words or less provide a summary that addresses the below Selection Criteria:
- The student’s contributions and achievements
- Benefits to other students and/or the community of the student’s activities
- All community and volunteer work undertaken
The student must currently hold a Student Visa, Schools sector.
The nominator must be a staff member at the student’s education institution who has worked with the student when performing any of the roles mentioned in the application.
This award is proudly sponsored by
