The 2026 BIBF International Illustration Awards (Professional) includes a total of six categories（Children’s Publishing, Advertising, Covers, Science & Technology, Editorial and Product & Packaging），and each category is divided into two groups: “published” and “unpublished”, aiming to provide a fair and impartial display platform for illustration works at different stages of creation.

A Gold Award and an Expert Recommended Award will be set for each group of each category in recognition of the artistic and professional excellence of illustrators. In addition, the competition will select a winner of the Global Award (Best of best), which represents the highest honor, among the entries in all groups for the Professional competition, in recognition of her/his outstanding contribution to creativity and influence.

The 2026 BIBF International Illustration Awards (Teenager) includes two major categories: picture books and the specific theme. Each category is divided into three groups: “4-8 years old group”, “9-12 years old group” and “13-18 years old group”, aiming to provide young creators of different ages with opportunities to showcase their talents and creativity and encourage their self-expression and exploration in the process of artistic creation.

In each category, each of the three groups will confer one Gold Award and one Expert Recommendation Award to recognize exceptional works by youth participants. In addition, First, Second, Third, and Merit Prizes are established to encourage broader participation and sustained advancement in artistic expression and creative conception.