This challenge has become a remarkable launchpad for young talent, with many past winners going on to launch their apps on the App Store or even build careers from their projects. If you’ve got an idea for an app, this is your moment to start building.
For participants interested in this annual challenge, applications will open on Friday, February 6, 2026. The window stays open for three weeks. Winners will be selected in the following months, and those in the top ranking will receive an Apple product.
Apple is continuing its tradition of recognizing and rewarding the incredible work of student developers. All winners of the challenge will receive a one-year membership in the Apple Developer Program, which is essential for anyone looking to publish apps on the App Store.
Some winners will also be invited on an all-expenses-paid, three-day trip to Apple’s headquarters in Cupertino, California. This trip typically coincides with the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in the summer, offering an unparalleled chance to connect with Apple engineers and the global developer community.
Your submission must be an “app playground” that you created individually. It must be built using Swift Playground 4.6 or Xcode 26 (or later). The judges will be looking for submissions that demonstrate excellence in innovation, creativity, social impact, or inclusivity.
The challenge is open to student developers worldwide. To be eligible, you must meet the minimum age requirement for your region and be enrolled in an accredited academic institution, a STEM organization’s curriculum, or an Apple Developer Academy. You also cannot be employed full-time as a developer.
Apple has highlighted past winners like Adrit Rao, who built an app to translate sign language, and Sofia Sandoval, who created a digital handmade card app, as a source of inspiration.
Are you planning to participate in the Swift Student Challenge this year? You can share your ideas or questions in the comments below! Stay updated with the latest news on this by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
