How to Find and Compete in the Best Science Fair Near You

Making your mark in science fairs starts with one thing: finding the right one to compete in. But with so many options, where do you begin? Whether you're aiming for a local fair or have your sights set on the prestigious Regeneron ISEF, this guide helps you navigate your way to the right science fair and up through the levels.

1. Start Local

The easiest place to begin is your school or district science fair. These events are often the first stepping stone toward regional and state competitions, and they're an excellent foundation for anyone new to science fairs, giving you a chance to refine your project and presentation skills in a familiar setting before moving to bigger stages.

If your school doesn't host a fair, don't worry. Many local organizations, museums, and universities run their own.

2. Level Up: Regional and State Fairs

Once you've competed locally, it's time to aim higher. Regional and state fairs are where the competition heats up, and projects get more sophisticated, and placing well here can secure your spot at national or international fairs. Advancement varies: some schools automatically send their top projects forward, while others require a separate application, so research the specific fairs in your region. A quick search or a chat with your science teacher will reveal what's available to you.

3. Go National

If you're ready for the next level, national competitions bring together the best young minds across the country and offer real recognition and scholarships. For middle schoolers, the Thermo Fisher Junior Innovators Challenge (JIC) is the premier national competition, while high schoolers can aim for events like the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS).

For a fuller map of what's out there, our roundup of the top science competitions for high school students and our guide to 50 STEM competitions for students lay out the strongest options across every level and interest.

There are strong international options beyond the U.S. pipeline too, like GENIUS Olympiad, which pairs scientific research with an environmental focus.

4. The Pinnacle: ISEF

For the ambitious, the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the pinnacle. Competing there puts you among the brightest young scientists in the world. Getting there takes dedication, perseverance, and, above all, the right preparation.

The fastest way to find fairs near you is the Society for Science's official affiliated fair finder, which maps the fairs in your area that feed into the Thermo Fisher Junior Innovators Challenge (JIC) and, ultimately, ISEF based on where you live.

5. The Real Advantage: Mentorship

Finding the right fair is just the beginning. To truly excel, a mentor can help you refine your project idea, share advanced research techniques, and even assist with securing resources. If you don't have one yet, our guide to finding your perfect mentor for science fair success walks through practical ways to connect with experts in your field, and once you've found a mentor, how to get advice from a science fair winner covers how to get the most from that relationship.

Start Your Science Fair Journey

Finding the right fair to compete in is the crucial first step, but the right guidance is what carries you through it. That's where ScienceFair comes in. Every coach on our team is a past science fair winner, and alongside our Ivy League research mentors, they'll help you build a strong project, prepare for the judges' Q&A, and map your path from your local fair all the way to ISEF.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call with our academic advisor.