IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs wins APSIA 2026 Intersection Award for bridging theory and practice
"Policy in Practice: Transformative Capstones for Global Impact" engages over 300 students annually in hands-on projects with more than 60 leading institutions.
IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs has received the 2026 APSIA Intersection Award for Linking Theory and Practice, a major recognition from the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA). The award-winning project, "Policy in Practice: Transformative Capstones for Global Impact", highlights the School’s commitment to bridging academic learning with real-world application.
This initiative connects Bachelor’s and Master’s students with complex global challenges through research projects developed in collaboration with government agencies, multilateral organizations, NGOs, and private sector partners. Students produce practical outputs for partner organizations such as policy recommendations, analytical reports, and strategic solutions, while gaining valuable hands-on experience.
These projects are delivered through capstone theses, summer research programs, and competitions. Each year, the School carries out capstone projects in partnership with more than 60 organizations, engaging over 300 students annually. Their work has a tangible impact, reaching thousands of people worldwide.
"At IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs, we are deeply committed to innovative pedagogy and hands-on learning", said Borja Santos, Associate Dean. "Through initiatives such as our Capstone projects, students collaborate directly with leading public, private and international institutions, combining academic rigour with real-world consulting experience. This approach allows them to better understand how institutions operate while contributing to projects with tangible impact.”
IE School of Politics, Economics and Global Affairs has now received a total of ten international awards in recognition of its innovative teaching and experiential learning initiatives:
- QS Reimagine Education Award 2023 for "Refugee Camp simulation".
- APSIA’s Intersection Award 2023 for "Refugee Camp simulation".
- MERIT Awards 2024. The Audience Choice Award for "Refugee Camp simulation".
- MERIT Awards 2024. The Social and Environmental Special Recognition for "Refugee Camp simulation".
- QS Reimagine Education Award 2024 for "The Good Goal".
- Learning Technologies Award 2024 for "Facing New Challenges in Space & Cyber Affairs: SpaceGov".
- Merit Awards 2025. The Special Recognition – Experiential Learning with Sustainability Impact for "Ocean Conservation Partnership".
- Merit Awards 2026. The Audience Choice Award for "The Good Goal".
- Merit Awards 2026. The Technology in Learning Award for "The Good Goal".
- APSIA Awards 2026. The Intersection Award for Linking Theory and Practice for "Policy in Practice: Transformative Capstones for Global Impact"