The AIGA offers many graphic design contests; here are a few that you might wish to enter.
AIGA is calling on its members to submit posters for its "Inequality Matters" campaign. The campaign is designed to feature a series of posters that communicate areas of inequality among nations and people in terms of access to clean water, fresh air, nutritious food, education, and other areas outlined by the United Nations Development Program. Posters will be showcased in an AIGA exhibit designed to raise awareness of inequality throughout the world.
Got a winning book cover design? If so, you might consider AIGA's annual "50 books/50 covers of 2005" competition. This annual event honors the best 50 book designs each year.
The AIGA also holds an annual design competition that showcases the best graphic design work in all categories.
These design competitions are intended for those with graphic design careers who are creating work for use in the market. Student projects, therefore, are probably not eligible for consideration. To join the competition, interested graphic designers need to submit their work by March 3, 2006. More information can be found on AIGA's website, where information on eligibility requirements is detailed.
You might also seek out graphic design contests expressly for students. Ask the department head of your graphic design training program about student competitions. Besides building up your portfolio and adding another feather to your cap, a design competition win might also help you earn some scholarship money or cash to help finance the cost of your design program.
Put your graphic design training to the test by entering a design competition. It can serve as a way to distinguish yourself from your peers and apply principles you learned during your design program.