A number of prestigious awards are presented to Salem College students during awards and convocation ceremonies at the end of the academic year. Students may be nominated by members of the Salem College community to receive awards recognizing their accomplishments in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and service.

Prominent awards presented each year include the Sister Oesterlein Award for the senior who has made the most outstanding overall contribution to Salem College as a scholar, leader, and member of the community. The Sister Oesterlein Award is presented during Founders Day ceremonies in the May Dell in April. The Pfohl Award is presented each year during Honors Convocation to the senior who has epitomized the spirit of Salem in her academic and cocurricular endeavors.

Individual students and student organizations are recognized for their accomplishments during the annual Student Leadership Awards Banquet which is held in conjunction with the Academic Day of Excellence in April.