A nomination for an OSCA can be made by any member of the University community – student or staff – as long as the nominated student meets the following criteria:

• The nominated student must be in their final year of studies (including Bachelor's, PGCE, Master's and Doctoral level students)
• The nominated student must have made a contribution outside of their studies in one of the following areas
• An outstanding achievement or contribution in citizenship in the form of making a significant difference to the life of the University community (including work on or off campus such as volunteer activity)
• An outstanding achievement or contribution to the development of the University’s internationalisation agenda
• Demonstrating entrepreneurial flair, which has benefitted the University or a local organisation (for example, working with local businesses or charities)