Some of the best ways to stand out in your area of interest is through participating and winning competitions.

STEM competitions help students learn the fundamentals while learning real life applications.

This following guide consists a full list of reputable STEM competitions.

These competitions are a great way to express passion in STEM fields, while receiving great recognition.

Rishab Jain, a Harvard student who has achieved success in numerous international competitions (ISEF, RSI, Coca Cola Scholars, Presidential Scholars) has made his STEM Student Guide public with a a list of 50+ more opportunities and competitions.

You should definitely check it out next.

No more having to search for top-quality programs. this guide has it all.

1. International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) Eligibility: High School ISEF is the world's largest Science Fair with over 1600 students participating from around the world.

This unique experience grants students amazing recognition.

Watch my ISEF 2023 vlog to better feel the dynamic I have felt for the past four years as an ISEF finalist. https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=ehMrzcH12U4&pp=ygUJaXNlZiB2bG9n How to get started?

To qualify for ISEF, you must first qualify through an affiliated fair.

ISEF has a huge affiliated fair network, and for US students, this is typically their regional and/or state-level fair.

Winning these fairs gets you a spot at ISEF.

To get started on your research journey be sure to check out these Science Fair Courses (SECRET10 for 10% off).

Further be sure to subscribe to this YouTube playlist to understand the fundamentals of Research in High School.

2. Broadcom MASTERS/ThermoFisher Junior Innovator Challenge Eligibility: Middle School Student (US) The ThermoFisher Junior Innovator (earlier Broadcom MASTERS) is the premier science fair for Middle Schoolers.

To qualify, students have to qualify through competing at a district/state fair.

The Final Competition is held in Washington DC and this is a really valuable experience for Middle Schoolers.

For specific tips on the application process be sure to check out this course for tips and tricks to connect with the judges (SECRET10 for 10 off).

This course contains valuable information from a 2018 semifinalist & 2019 finalist (2nd place winner).

3. 3M Young Scientist Challenge Eligibility: grades 8 (US) The 3M Young Scientist Challenge is a competition that focuses on innovation and problem-solving.

Students are tasked to find solutions to everyday problems through STEM techniques.

The top 10 finalists are invited to a summer mentorship program in Minnesota, to work with 3M scientists and engineer to develop their solutions.

The grand winner wins a prize of $25,00

0. For advice on how I won the 25,000 prize in 2018, visit the course here.

Students must submit a video explaining their solution to the problem that they wish to tackle.

This is a great opportunity to learn about a field that interests you under the guidance of an actual scientist.

This process also prepares students for their future science and research endeavors.

4. Junior Science & Humanities Symposium (JSHS) Eligibility: High School JSHS is a competition that involves high school students presenting their STEM Research.

There are Regionals and Nationals level of competition and this is a great way to let students express their passion for STEM Research.

JSHS includes a lot of awards and scholarships.

This is another way to build new connections with likeminded peers.

Consider this course diving deep into tricks for presenting at JSHS.

Here, I will explain how I won in my freshman year, I won 3rd place at regionals ($1000), and qualified to compete in the poster category at nationals.

I won 2nd place at nationals ($500).

In my sophomore year, I won 1st place at regionals ($2000), and qualified to compete in the oral category at nationals.

I won 1st place at nationals ($12,000).

In my junior year, I won 1st place at regionals ($2000), and qualified to compete in the oral category at nationals.

I won 1st place at nationals ($12,000).

5. Coca-Cola Scholarship Eligibility: High School Senior This scholarship is mainly about advocacy, service to society, and work done for others.

Although it may not seem STEM like, it is actually a great place to explain how your work in STEM has impacted others.

This is one of the most prestigious awards that high school seniors can win.

The $20,000 award is definitely a testament to the academic and civic qualities of a high schooler.

To apply students must fill out a form about their extracurriculars and academic work.

If selected to the next round, this process includes Letter of Recommendations and additional work.

More information can be found on their website.

Be sure to check out the scholarships course to make sure that you are able to succeed in these applications.

6. Congressional App Challenge The Congressional App Challenge is a competition that invites middle and high school students to design and develop an app on any platform.

Participants work with their teachers and mentors to create a functioning app, which they then submit to their local representative's office for consideration.

Winners are recognized by their representative and their app may be featured on the House of Representatives' website.

More information on the competition and how to apply can be found here.

This is Perfect for app developers, CS/tech students, etc.

7. National Merit Scholarship Competition Eligibility: Taken the PSAT/NMSQT during junior year of high school The National Merit Scholarship Competition is a prestigious award offered to students who score in the top percentile of their state.

As a reward, this award is a monetary scholarship that students are able to use for their college education.

Some colleges have their own rewards for these scholars as well.

NMSC scholar status is really valuable both for college and employment in the future.

To perfect your scholarship application be sure to check out this course here.

8. BioGENEius Challenge Eligibility: High School The BioGENEius Challenge is the Biotechnology Institute's flagship program for high school students.

This is an opportunity for students to be recognized for their research in Biotechnology.

Top 5% of students showcase their research at the international level.

The awards are split into Global Healthcare, Global Sustainability, and Global Environment.

9. National Science Bowl Eligibility: High School Teams The National Science Bowl features high school teams testing their knowledge in a quiz bowl format.

The areas that are quizzed include biology, chemistry, physics, and earth science.

The National Science Bowl is sponsored by the US Department of Energy, proving to be a great opportunity to grow connections with likeminded students.

Students that enjoy Olympiads (IBO, IMO, F=ma, etc. ) will probably enjoy and shine in these competitions. 1

0. Olympiads (IBO, IMO, IOI, IChO, IPhO) These competitions lead to awesome opporunities, such as representing your country in the national or international level.

This is a great way to earn recognition in STEM and be prepared for a strong resume.

Some of the most well known are the International Biology Olympiad, International Physics Olympiad, and the International Mathematical Olympiad.

They incorporate a series of test to allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in these fields.

Be sure to watch this video where I spoke with an IMO winner. https://youtu. be/SHWGvC3SvK8 1

1. FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Dates: FRC is hosted in a variety of locations around the world: US, Canada, Australia, Israel, etc.

Regionals typically take place around March, and the winners advance to the World Championship.

Eligibility: High School students (age 14-18), teams of up to 100 from schools or communities FRC includes a fee to register a team, but that includes the cost of a kit that teams receive.

This kit consists of robotic parts such as motors and sensors.

This competition is a great event for problem solvers and team workers.

To succeed, technical expertise is required but strong project management skills are also vital. 1

2. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) Dates: The Regeneron STS is an annual competition that takes place during the course of a few months.

Competition begins the summer, with submissions due in the fall around November.

Scholars and Finalists are selected in January.

Eligibility: High School Senior (US citizen or permanent resident) Students are evaluated on the Research that they submit, as well as their skills in Research.

It is not just sufficient to submit quality work, but also prove their potential in the research industry.

STS chooses 300 semifinalists ($2,000 prize) and 40 finalists, and these awards are some of the most prestigious awards a high schooler can receive.

The finalists go onto present their work for prizes ranging from ($40,000 to $250,000).

Picking a Research topic can be quite difficult in the first place, but this video helps narrow down ideas. https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=RqNZ-L4E3Zw&t=97s 1

3. The Breakthrough Junior Challenge Dates: This competition takes place from April to December with submissions beginning in April and ending on June 25, and awards announced in December.

Eligibility: Students aged 13 to 18 For this students must submit a two minute video presenting a scientific concept in a creative and engaging way.

This competition emphasizes creativity alongside the STEM aspect allowing students to shine beyond textbook knowledge.

The submission is graded by a panel of scientists who determine the award winners, based on creativity, clarity, and accuracy.

The winner receives a $250,000 college scholarship, as well as a $100,000 grant for their school to create a STEM lab.

The winner also receives an opportunity to attend the Breakthrough Prize ceremony in California and meet with influential leaders in science and technology. 1

4. MATE ROV Competition Dates: MATE ROV (Marine Advanced Technology Education Remotely Operated Vehicle) is an annual international competition where the international competition takes place in June.

Eligibility: Students with an adult mentor Teams can consist of members from different ages and background.

These teams are to build a ROV that can complete underwater tasks and navigate that environment.

The students are first to compete in Regional Fairs around the world.

To find your nearest competition look here.

The teams are judged on criteria including the design, construction, and performance.

The ability to communicate the pros of the ROV are also vital in this competition.

Around the world, this competition is considered prestigious and is highly competitive. 1

5. International Research Olympiad (IRO) Dates: Registration begins in February with the competition beginning in March.

The Finals is in May at Harvard University.

Eligibility: All students age 13 to 18 The IRO is backed by the Samyak Science Society (501(c))which is run by me, Rishab Jain.

The first annual IRO (set to take place March 2024) is dedicated to honing analytical and critical thinking skills for student researchers—essential in the realm of scientific exploration.

The IRO fosters a culture of rigorous research and skill-building, not just memorizing formulae.

The practical applications of knowledge and big-picture thinking are tested in the 2024 IRO examinations, allowing students to walk away with a deeper passion for scientific inquiry.

There are thousands of participants, so rest assured it’ll be competitive, but that just makes winning that much more worth it!

This video is a great place to learn more about the IRO! https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=N3jywbAqfNU 16A.

Blueprint (HackMIT) 2023 Dates: February 19 (there are workshops before this with BP week starting on February 13) Eligibility: High School students (teams of 1 to 4) If admitted, this program is free to attend, with lodging, food, etc. being completely taken care of (travel is not covered).

The tracks include hardware, mobile development, and web development.

Blueprint is a 10 hour hackathon that requires students to build creative software and hardware projects.

Participants work in teams to build their projects, attend workshops and mentor sessions, and compete for prizes.

The hackathon is designed to provide high school students with an opportunity to learn about computer science and engineering, meet new people, and develop their technical skills.

This is hosted by HackMIT, the original undergraduate hackathon. 16B.

HackHarvard Dates: Sometime in October Eligibility: High Schoolers and College students around the world (teams of 1 to 4) HackHarvard is a 36-hour hackathon that challenges participants to create innovative solutions to real-world problems.

Participants work in teams to build software and hardware projects, attend workshops and mentor sessions, and compete for prizes.

HackHarvard is known for its focus on diversity and inclusivity, as well as its emphasis on social impact and entrepreneurship.

HackHarvard also features a number of activities and events throughout the weekend, including keynote speeches, networking sessions, and workshops.

The hackathon attracts top talent from around the world and is one of the most prestigious events of its kind.

To learn more about Hackathons (especially about the one at Harvard) check out this video. https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=0n4EkavaETo 1

7. Conrad Challenge Dates: Competitions run from January to April.

Innovation stage is due in January and Power Pitch stage is for finalists in April.

Eligibility: High School students (ages 13 to 18).

Can apply as individuals or teams of up to five.

A mentor of at least age 21 is required.

The Conrad Challenge consists of three phases: the Seed Phase, the Development Phase, and the Finalist Phase.

During the Seed Phase, participants must identify a real-world problem in one of six categories: Aerospace & Aviation, Cyber-Technology & Security, Energy & Environment, and Health & Nutrition.

Teams then submit a short proposal outlining their solution, and top teams are selected to move on to the Development Phase.

During the Development Phase, teams work with mentors to further develop their solutions and create a comprehensive business plan.

Top teams are then selected to move on to the Finalist Phase, where they compete for prizes and opportunities to showcase their solutions at the Conrad Challenge Innovation Summit.

Finalist teams are judged on the basis of innovation, feasibility, and impact.

It is pretty prestigious and competitive, so good luck if you plan to compete! 1

8. Microsoft Imagine Cup Dates: Takes place over months with registration in December, Semifinals by January 30, Regionals until March, and then World Championship in May.

Eligibility: Must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school.

Each team (teams of up to 3) must have a faculty member affiliated with their educational institution.

The Imagine Cup is free to enter.

Participants are tasked to develop a project that address a problem in Earth, Education, or Health, using Microsoft Technology.

Competition starts with National Finals, then Regional Finals, with the World Championship as the ultimate goal.

The top teams are selected based on their innovation, feasibility, and potential impact.

The winning teams receive cash prizes, grants, and opportunities to connect with industry professionals. 1

9. Science Olympiad Dates: Science Olympiad (not to be confused with the International Science Olympiads: IMO, ICho, IPho) competition runs from fall to spring with most competitions in the Spring with Nationals in May.

Eligibility: High School Team of 15 These competitions are team based, and teams can compete in up to 23 events.

They test skills in areas from Chemistry to Engineering with winners in each category.

Overall winners are determined based on whichever school has the best placement.

The winners from the State level are able to advance to the National Competition. 2

0. RISE [Scholarship] Dates: The application dates are typically during fall to winter.

The decisions are released in early spring Eligibility: High Schooler age 15 to 17 RISE is a summer program that offers financial assistance to high school students that demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to community service.

The scholarship aims to provide students with the opportunity to pursue higher education at the college or university of their choice.

RISE is quite competitive, and students must display their academic potential through high test scores.

Applicants are evaluated based on academic achievement, leadership potential, community service, and their ability to articulate their goals and aspirations.

It is quite competitive as they select 100 Global Winners each year, and receive access to need-based financial support.

The community also offers opportunities to explore beyond just academics, with funding for social enterprises and connection with mentors. 2

1. Canadian Computing Competition (CEMC) Dates: Competitions run throughout the year from October to May Eligibility: All high schoolers in Canada The competition is organized by the University of Waterloo's Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) and aims to promote interest and proficiency in computer science among high school students.

The CEMC hosts multiple contests, for both computer science and mathematics.

The Canadian Computing Competition (CCC) involves a 3 hour, 5 question online exam.

They also offer various other math contests for different grades (Cayley for Grade 10, Fermat for Grade 11, and Euclid for Grade 1

2. ) While competitive, it is a great opportunity to refine one’s mathematical solving ability! 2

2. Avogadro Chemistry Exam Dates: Exam is in May Eligibility: Grade 11 students around [Canada and] the world It consists of a two-hour written exam, with questions that test a student's knowledge of chemistry concepts and problem-solving skills.

The exam is designed to challenge students and requires a solid understanding of chemistry topics covered in high school curricula.

The exam consists of multiple-choice and short-answer questions and covers topics such as stoichiometry, chemical bonding, and acid-base reactions.

It is quite difficult but can definitely help receive admission into UWaterloo. 2

3. VEX Worlds Dates: Late April/Early May Eligibility: VEX Worlds is open to students of various age groups.

The first category involves Grade 4-8 with 8,500+ teams from 45 countries, and for Grade 6-12 with 11,500+ teams from 40 countries.

The competition involves designing, building, and programming robots to complete specific tasks or objectives on a designated field.

Teams compete in alliance-based matches, where multiple teams work together to achieve shared goals.

Matches are scored based on a combination of autonomous robot operation and driver-controlled actions.

In addition to the main robotics competition, VEX Worlds also features additional events and activities, such as skills challenges, workshops, and exhibitions, where students can further engage with STEM-related content and interact with like-minded individuals. 2

4. Stockholm Junior Water Prize Dates: Takes place during World Water week (around August) Eligibility: Ages 15-20 with Water related Research projects The prize aims to promote interest in water-related issues and inspire young innovators to develop sustainable solutions for global water challenges.

It is organized by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) and has gained global recognition as the most prestigious award for young water scientists.

This is a great competition for anyone considering environmental science as a future field of study, and generally for STEM students out there! 2

5. Blue Ocean Competition Dates: Early in the year Eligibility: High School and College students around the world.

Can compete individually or with teams.

The Blue Ocean Student Entrepreneur (BOSE) Competition is an annual entrepreneurial competition that provides high school and college students with an opportunity to showcase their innovative business ideas and compete for recognition and support.

Participants are required to submit a business plan or proposal outlining their idea, target market, value proposition, and potential for success.

Selected participants may then advance to the next stage, which often includes refining their business plan and preparing a pitch presentation.

The finalists are invited to present their ideas in front of a panel of judges, investors, and an audience at a live event.

The presentations are assessed based on the quality of the pitch, the feasibility of the business model, and the overall potential for success. 2

6. Harvard MIT Mathematics Tournament (HMMT) Dates: November and February at Harvard/MIT Eligibility: Open to high schoolers around the world.

Compete individually (representing a team) or with a team.

The Harvard MIT Mathematics Tournament (HMMT) is an annual mathematics competition for high school students jointly organized by Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

HMMT is renowned for its challenging problem sets and attracts top math talents from around the world.

The HMMT consists of various rounds that assess problem-solving skills, mathematical knowledge, and logical reasoning abilities.

The competition typically includes both individual and team rounds.

Additionally, there may be special events, such as math relays or math-related activities, to foster a sense of camaraderie and mathematical exploration. 2

7. Space Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition Dates: 31st March deadline, mid April Awards Eligibility: Individuals or teams with business ideas in space-related technology, exploration, or services.

The Space Entrepreneurs Pitch Competition is an annual competition that provides a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to pitch innovative space-related business ideas.

Organized by the Institute of Competition Sciences, the competition aims to encourage the development of entrepreneurial ventures in the space industry and promote advancements in space technology and exploration.

The submissions are evaluated by a panel of judges, who assess factors such as innovation, feasibility, market relevance, and the potential impact of the proposed venture.

Selected participants may be invited to present their pitches at a live event, where they have the opportunity to showcase their ideas to a wider audience of industry professionals, investors, and fellow space enthusiasts. 2

8. Modeling the Future Challenge Dates: Typically around the fall Eligibility: High School students around the world.

Students can participate individually or with a team.

The Modeling the Future Challenge is an annual competition that invites high school students to develop and apply mathematical modeling skills to solve real-world problems.

The Modeling the Future Challenge typically consists of a multi-stage process.

Participants are presented with a real-world problem or scenario that requires mathematical modeling and analysis.

Students are tasked with formulating a mathematical model, collecting and analyzing relevant data, and developing solutions or predictions based on their model.

Submissions are evaluated based on the clarity of the mathematical model, the accuracy and relevance of the analysis, and the feasibility and practicality of the proposed solutions. 2

9. arcGIS Online Competition Dates: Fall deadline for registration with Spring/Summer competition dates Eligibility: Students grade 4 to 12 (US resident) The ArcGIS Online Competition is an annual competition that challenges students to showcase their skills in geographic information system (GIS) technology and spatial analysis using the ArcGIS Online platform.

Participants are required to utilize geospatial data, maps, and spatial analysis tools available in ArcGIS Online to develop their projects.

The projects may involve creating interactive maps, conducting spatial analysis, visualizing data, and communicating the results effectively.

Submissions are evaluated based on the quality and creativity of the project, the application of GIS principles and techniques, and the overall presentation and communication of the project's findings. 3

0. MIT THINK Dates: Applications due January 1 Eligibility: High School Student (US).

Project must be completed in 1 semester and be under $1,000 MIT THINK Scholars Program is a program dedicated to encourage STEM research for high schoolers.

They provide mentorship opportunities as well as funding for Research ideas.

The application process consists of a project proposal.

A team of scientists judge these applications on feasibility and impact.

The Scholars receive a grant to carry out the Research that they hope to complete, alongside a platform to promote the work they have done. 3

1. Princeton University Mathematics Competition (PUMaC) Dates: Around November Eligibility: High School students in grades 9 through 1

2. The PUMaC consists of several rounds designed to test participants' mathematical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and mathematical reasoning skills.

The competition includes individual rounds, team rounds, and a power round.

The individual rounds typically consist of a series of challenging problems that cover various areas of mathematics, such as algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics.

The team round involves collaboration among teammates to solve complex problems within a time limit.

The power round focuses on in-depth exploration of a specific topic in mathematics.

Additionally, there may be guest lectures, math-related activities, and opportunities to interact with mathematicians and students from other schools. 3

2. Carnegie Mellon Informatics and Mathematics Competition (CMIMC) Dates: March/Around the Spring Eligibility: High School students around the world The Carnegie Mellon Informatics and Mathematics Competition (CMIMC) is an annual mathematics and computer science competition organized by Carnegie Mellon University.

The mathematics component includes challenging problem-solving rounds that cover various mathematical.

The computer science component involves programming challenges and algorithmic problem-solving tasks.

In addition to the main competitions, there may be other activities, workshops, and lectures designed to engage participants and expand their knowledge in mathematics and computer science. 3

3. AAPT High School Physics Photo Contest Dates: Vary from year to year (2024 is March to May deadline) Eligibility: High School students around the world The AAPT High School Photo Contest is an annual competition organized by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT).

This unique contest allows high school students to showcase their photography skills while creatively incorporating physics concepts into their photographs.

If you have a passion for both photography and physics, this contest offers an exciting opportunity to blend your interests and demonstrate your creativity. 3

4. National High School Design Challenge Dates: Around February Eligibility: High School students (US) The National High School Design Challenge typically involves solving a specific design problem or addressing a pressing issue in a particular field or industry.

Participants are given a design brief, which outlines the problem statement, goals, and constraints.

They are then required to develop a comprehensive design solution that demonstrates their creativity, technical proficiency, and understanding of the problem at hand.

Projects may involve designing physical products, creating digital prototypes, developing architectural plans, or proposing innovative systems or services.

Submissions are evaluated based on criteria such as creativity, functionality, feasibility, sustainability, and overall design quality. 3

5. US Cyber Patriot Dates: January to May Eligibility: High School students (US) either individual or team (school or organization) US Cyber Patriot is a national cybersecurity competition for high school students organized by the Air Force Association (AFA).

The US Cyber Patriot competition consists of a series of online rounds and a national championship.

Participants are tasked with securing virtual networks and systems against simulated cyber threats.

They must identify vulnerabilities, apply patches and configurations, and defend against cyber attacks.

The competition covers various aspects of cybersecurity, including operating system hardening, network security, digital forensics, and ethical hacking.

Teams are scored based on their ability to identify and fix vulnerabilities, maintain system functionality, and adhere to strict competition rules and guidelines. 3

6. DNA Day Essay Contest [Scholarship] Dates: January to March is the submission time period.

Late April are when results are announced.

Eligibility: High School students from around the world The DNA Day Essay Contest is an annual competition that provides high school students with the opportunity to explore and express their knowledge and understanding of genetics and genomics.

The contest is organized by the American Society of Human Genetics.

The essay should demonstrate a solid understanding of the subject matter and showcase critical thinking, creativity, and clear communication skills.

The essays are judged based on scientific accuracy, clarity of writing, organization, and originality.

Their website also contains a few common pitfalls that one should avoid, such as inaccuracy in technical language, sweeping statements with regard to the future of genetics, and the use of out of date references. 3

7. Genes in Space Dates: January to April is the submission period.

Eligibility: Grade 7 to 12 in the US The Genes in Space competition requires participants to develop a research proposal outlining an experiment that investigates a specific question related to genetics or molecular biology.

The proposed experiment should leverage the unique characteristics of the space environment, such as microgravity or radiation exposure, to gain new insights or advance our understanding of genetic processes.

Students are encouraged to think creatively, consider the practical feasibility of their experiment, and demonstrate a solid scientific foundation in their proposals.

Finalists have the opportunity to present their proposals to a panel of judges at a national conference, where a winner is selected. 3

8. The American Rocketry Challenge Dates: Nationals Take place in May each year but qualifying flights are due around April.

Eligibility: Teams of 3 to 10 students (US Middle or High School) with teacher/mentor.

Students must be US citizens or permanent residents.

The American Rocketry Challenge is an annual rocket-building competition that consists of two rounds.

In the first round, teams design, build, and launch a model rocket that must meet specific design and performance requirements.

The top 100 scoring teams advance to the national finals, where they compete in a fly-off at a location in the United States.

The competition differs slightly each year, with a different challenge for the participants each time.

The prizes are usually up to $100,00

0. 3

9. PhysicsBowl Dates: Around April and May Eligibility: High School students around the world PhysicsBowl is organized by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) and provides an opportunity for students to showcase their physics prowess.

PhysicsBowl consists of a multiple-choice exam that covers a wide range of physics topics, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, waves, optics, thermodynamics, and modern physics.

The exam consists of challenging questions that test conceptual understanding, problem-solving abilities, and application of physics principles.

Participating teams or individuals take the PhysicsBowl exam under proctored conditions within a specified time frame. 4

0. HVAC Innovation Challenge Dates: Deadline is around mid July Eligibility: Anyone (individuals or teams) including students, engineers, researchers, and HVAC professionals.

The competition welcomes both novices and experienced professionals who are passionate about advancing HVAC technology and finding innovative solutions.

The HVAC Innovation Challenge invites participants to propose and develop new and groundbreaking ideas for HVAC systems.

This can include novel technologies, energy-efficient designs, intelligent control systems, air quality improvement solutions, or any other innovation that addresses the challenges and opportunities in the HVAC industry.

Participants are encouraged to consider factors such as energy efficiency, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, ease of implementation, and potential impact on indoor comfort and air quality.

The competition typically involves several stages, including the submission of proposals, evaluations by a panel of experts in the field, and potential opportunities for prototype development or testing.

Finalists may have the chance to showcase their innovations at conferences or industry events, where winners are selected based on the creativity, feasibility, and potential impact of their HVAC solutions. 4

1. iGEM (Genetically Engineered Machines) Dates: Registration closes in May, presentations begin in November Eligibility: High School and College students iGEM challenges teams to develop and present original projects that leverage synthetic biology techniques to solve real-world problems.

Participants work on a wide range of projects, such as creating novel biosensors, developing sustainable biomaterials, designing microbial systems for bioremediation, or engineering new therapeutic approaches.

Teams are provided with a standard toolkit of biological parts known as BioBricks, which they can use to assemble and modify genetic systems.

Throughout the competition, teams engage in research, experimental design, lab work, and modeling to develop their projects.

They document their progress, results, and methodologies on a publicly accessible wiki.

The teams also attend regional and international jamborees where they present their work through presentations, posters, and demonstrations.

Judges evaluate the projects based on scientific rigor, innovation, implementation, and societal impact. 4

2. International Brain Bee (IBB) Dates: Late July/Early August.

Local and National Competitions vary depending on location.

Eligibility: High School students between the ages of 13 and 1

9. The International Brain Bee consists of multiple rounds, starting at the local or regional level and progressing to national and international levels.

The competition tests students' knowledge of neuroscience, including areas such as brain anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurochemistry, and cognitive functions.

Participants study from a designated resource book that covers the required material. 4

3. Davidson Fellows [Scholarship] Dates: Deadline is mid February with presentation of awards in Spring around April/May Eligibility: Students under the age of 18 that have completed significant Research.

The Davidson Fellows Scholarship is highly competitive and seeks to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions in their areas of expertise.

The scholarship is awarded by the Davidson Institute for Talent Development, a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing and supporting gifted young individuals.

They offer $50,000, $25,000 and $10,000 scholarships!

Applicants are evaluated based on the quality, depth, and impact of their projects, research, or creative endeavors.

These may include scientific research papers, inventions, technological innovations, social initiatives, artistic creations, or academic achievements.

Be sure to check out the scholarships course to perfect your application even further. 4

4. MathWorks Math Modeling Challenge Dates: Competition takes place mid March with winners announced later in March Eligibility: 11th and 12th graders in the US The MathWorks Math Modeling Challenge revolves around a real-world problem that requires mathematical modeling to find a solution or make informed decisions.

Participating teams are given a specific problem statement and must use mathematical modeling techniques to analyze, interpret, and develop a solution to the problem.

Teams have 14 hours to work on the problem, during which they research the topic, formulate mathematical models, collect and analyze data, and develop their solution.

The teams submit a comprehensive report that details their problem-solving approach, the mathematical models used, and their findings and recommendations.

The reports are evaluated by a panel of judges who assess the teams' mathematical modeling skills, clarity of communication, and the feasibility and practicality of their solutions. 4

5. National STEM League: Rover Challenge Dates: Finals take place around May Eligibility: Middle and High Schoolers across the US.

Students can participate individually or through a team.

The Rover Challenge tasks participants with designing and constructing a robotic rover capable of navigating and completing specific missions.

The missions often involve tasks such as traversing obstacles, collecting samples, manipulating objects, or performing other simulated scientific tasks.

Teams are provided with guidelines, rules, and specific mission requirements, and they have a designated timeframe to design, build, and test their rovers.

Teams are evaluated not only on their rover's performance but also on their design process, documentation, teamwork, and the ability to troubleshoot and improve their rover's functionality.

The live event allows participants to demonstrate their rover's capabilities, problem-solving strategies, and adaptability to different challenges.

Judges assess the teams based on various criteria, such as rover performance, design, technical documentation, and teamwork. 4

6. Neuroscience Research Prize (AAN) Dates: Varies (year round) Eligibility: Typically open for High School and College students The Neuroscience Research Prize competition typically involves the submission of original research work that contributes to the understanding of the brain and nervous system.

The research can cover a wide range of topics, including but not limited to neurobiology, cognitive neuroscience, neuroimaging, or computational neuroscience.

Applicants are required to submit a detailed research proposal or summary, highlighting the objectives, methods, results, and significance of their work.

The submissions are reviewed by a panel of experts in the field who assess the quality, innovation, and impact of the research.

Neuroscience Research is definitely a unique field.

To understand how it feels like to be a Neuroscience Researcher this video is really useful. https://www. youtube. com/watch?v=ZCDQBn2s-0E 4

7. Global Innovation Challenge Dates: Submission deadline in September with finalists awarded by October Eligibility: The competition welcomes innovators, programmers, designers, and anyone interested in harnessing the potential of information and technology for global problem-solving.

The Global Information Challenge (GIC) is an international competition that aims to foster innovative solutions to global challenges through the use of information and communication technologies (ICT).

These challenges can range from areas such as education, healthcare, environment, poverty alleviation, access to information, and social justice.

Participants are encouraged to think creatively, incorporating technological tools, data analysis, artificial intelligence, or other relevant approaches to tackle the chosen challenge.

The projects should demonstrate the potential for real-world impact and scalability. 4

8. Hatch Idea Lab Eligibility: High School students Hatch Idea Lab guides students through the process of developing a business idea from concept to execution.

Participants receive mentorship, workshops, and resources to refine their ideas, create business plans, and build prototypes or proof-of-concepts.

They learn about market research, product development, marketing strategies, financial planning, and other essential aspects of starting and growing a business.

The competition culminates in a pitch event, where students present their business ideas to a panel of judges consisting of industry experts, investors, and entrepreneurs.

The pitches are evaluated based on factors such as innovation, market viability, feasibility, scalability, and presentation skills.

Winners may receive seed funding, incubator opportunities, mentorship, or other resources to help them launch their ventures. 4

9. Roboboat Dates: Final competition takes place during February/March Eligibility: High School and College students RoboBoat requires teams to design and construct autonomous boats that can navigate through a predefined course and complete specific tasks.

The challenges include obstacle avoidance, target identification, navigation through markers or buoys, and other aquatic-related missions.

Teams must develop advanced algorithms and software to control their boats' movements, perception, and decision-making.

The boats are typically equipped with various sensors, such as cameras, sonar, and GPS, to gather data and make informed decisions.

The goal is to develop autonomous systems that can effectively navigate and accomplish tasks in a complex and dynamic water environment.

The competition takes place in a controlled water area, where teams have the opportunity to demonstrate the capabilities of their autonomous boats.

Judges assess the performance of the boats based on factors such as navigation accuracy, completion of tasks, speed, obstacle avoidance, and overall system reliability. 5

0. eCybermission Dates: Registration runs from August to February.

Competition runs from March to June Eligibility: Middle School and 9th grade students (US).

Team of 3 to 4 students with a teacher/sponsor eCYBERMISSION challenges teams to identify a problem in their community that falls under one of four mission areas: Health and Safety, Environment, Education, or Technology.

Teams then conduct research and develop a solution or project proposal addressing the identified problem using scientific methods, engineering principles, and technology.

Teams document their project and submit it through the eCYBERMISSION website, including a detailed problem statement, research methodology, data analysis, and proposed solution.

They also have the opportunity to create a mission folder showcasing their project journey and findings.

Conclusion Rishab Jain, a Harvard student who has achieved success in numerous international competitions (ISEF, RSI, Coca Cola Scholars, Presidential Scholars) has made his STEM Student Guide public with a a list of 50+ more opportunities and competitions.

You should definitely check it out next.

No more having to search for top-quality programs. this guide has it all.

No matter how old you are STEM competitions are a great way to express your passion and skills for Science and related fields.

These competitions do not just have to be the stereotypical tests, but real life applications of STEM in the real world.

One of the greatest things about STEM is the interdisciplinary aspect of the topics.

You can incorporate STEM in topics such as business or even sports.

Regardless of where you are at in your STEM journey, we encourage you to actively seek out the competitions that you find interest in.

Explore these opportunities to learn, and you may even make a real impact in a field.

Students have the potential to transform the future, and it is important that you become involved to be part of that transformation.

We hope this guide has helped you navigate the realm of STEM competitions and even helped you become more involved.

Good luck on your search and take the next step by registering for competitions!

Stay posted for more guides and tutorials!.