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Every year, more than 9 million students in grades K–12 enter a science competition. Of those, only several thousand students in grades 9–12 participate in the topmost levels of competition. These prestigious competitions include:
Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF): For high school students only, who must first qualify at an affiliated fair. Top prize is a $50,000 scholarship.
sanofi-aventis International BioGENEius Challenge: For high school students only; recognizes outstanding research in biotechnology. Process is state, regional, international—all held by sanofi-aventis. Top prize is a $7,500 cash award.
Some of the larger state and regional fairs.
Check out the websites for videos and much more information.
Each of these competitions is distinctly different, but they all have extremely high standards for success, generally far beyond what is expected at other levels of competition. So, if you are in middle school or junior high school, we hope you aspire to participate in these fairs, but don't worry about your current project meeting the same standards. Virtually all of the participants in the top competitions "worked their way up" from much simpler projects when they were younger!
Summary Information
Grade Levels
Eligibility
Format
Teams Allowed?
Intel ISEF
9-12
Qualify by being a top winner at an affiliated science fair from around the world
Science fair board + judging interviews
Yes
Siemens Competition
9-12 for teams
12 for individuals
Open. U.S. students. Application deadline October
Research paper + presentations for finalists
Yes
Intel STS
12
Open. U.S. students. Application deadline November
Research paper + interviews for 40 finalists
Individuals only
JSHS
9-12
Open. U.S. students. Deadlines vary by region (usually December/January).
Research paper + oral presentations at each level
Yes
There are additional rules to determine whether your research is eligible. For example, the Siemens Competition does not allow social and behavioral science research projects. Check the competition websites for current rules.
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about upcoming science competitions, science fair tips, and information on other science related initiatives.
