This study addresses a gap in the literature by investigating the role of universities in equipping students in technical fields with competencies essential for transitioning to a circular economy. While previous studies highlight the significance of circular economy competence, they lack specific recommendations for competency assessment methodologies. The research assesses circular economy-focused activity design in international education contexts to examine higher education student competence. The Circular in Play project, which was conducted within the EELISA European University program, serves as a case study, analyzing prioritized competencies through its education workshops and their alignment with EELISA’s digital activity recognition scheme. The study concludes with a discussion on measuring circular competencies in international and online higher education and reforming their recognition framework for its enhanced development and acceptance among European higher education students and young professionals.

Authors: Imge Akcakaya Waite,Istanbul Technical University, Antonia Pacios, Beatriz Martín Bautista-Cerro,Justo García Navarro.