AALA Outstanding Dissertation Award

The AALA Outstanding Dissertation Award 2026 is open for applications from doctoral researchers in language assessment across Asia.

This award recognizes outstanding doctoral dissertation research that makes a meaningful contribution to the field of language assessment in Asia. Eligible dissertations include PhD, EdD, and other professional doctorates completed at a tertiary institution in Asia and accepted by the university between 2023-06-16 and 2026-06-15. The dissertation must be written in English, although the research may relate to testing of any language.

Funding and benefits: USD 500 toward travel for attending AALA 2027, waiver of AALA 2027 conference registration/banquet, free accommodation for up to 3 nights, and an opportunity to present the dissertation at the 13th Annual International Conference of AALA in 2027.

Application materials: a dissertation summary (max 3,000 words, excluding references), a signed letter from the dissertation advisor or director, proof of dissertation acceptance by the university, and a completed application form. The application form must be printed, filled out, scanned, and submitted electronically.

Deadline: 2026-06-15. Applications should be emailed to the AALA Awards Committee at aala [email protected].

Research focus: language assessment, language testing, doctoral dissertation research, educational measurement, and Asia-based applied linguistics scholarship.