How projects are assessed and scored by the judging panel

Evaluation Guidelines

All Meridian Scholars project pitches are evaluated using a standardized rubric developed in collaboration with the Oxford Diplomatic Society. Each criterion is scored independently to ensure fairness, consistency, and transparency.

Projects are assessed across five core areas: Problem & Solution, Cross-Cultural Understanding, Practicality, Impact, and Presentation.
Judges award points based on clarity, feasibility, originality, and alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Scores are aggregated for a total of 100 points.
The minimum qualifying score is 60 points.
In the event of a tie, the higher score in Impact determines the ranking.

Transparency Commitment

Students receive clear guidance on expectations before pitching, ensuring the judging process supports learning rather than competition.

1. Problem & Solution (25 points)

Problem Definition (10 points)

Evaluates clarity, relevance, and alignment with global inequality and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Solution Innovation (15 points)

Assesses originality, creativity, and how effectively the solution addresses the identified problem.

2. Cross-Cultural Element (15 points)

Diverse Perspectives (7 points)

Measures the integration of multiple cultural viewpoints, including engagement with local communities.

Global Applicability (8 points)

Evaluates whether the solution can be adapted across different cultural or geographic contexts.

3. Practicality (25 points)

Feasibility (15 points)

Assesses realism of budget, timeline, and logistical planning.

Risk Management (10 points)

Evaluates how well teams identify risks and propose mitigation strategies.

4. Impact (25 points)

Reach & Significance (15 points)

Measures scale, depth, and clarity of intended impact.

Sustainability (10 points)

Assesses long-term continuation, ownership, and growth potential.

5. Presentation (10 points)

Communication Clarity (5 points)

Evaluates structure, clarity, and coherence of the pitch.

Professionalism (5 points)

Assesses visual quality and confidence during Q&A.

Scoring Notes

• Maximum score: 100 points
• Minimum qualifying score: 60 points
• Tiebreaker: Higher score in Impact