Top 10 Research Competitions for High School Students
Nov 8, 2024
John Doe
Read this blog for the top research competitions you can join!
Participating in these will make your college applications shine, with free resources & guides!
1. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) Description: Regeneron STS, formerly known as the Intel Science Talent Search, is one of the most respected science competitions in the U.
S.
This competition encourages high school seniors to conduct original research in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
Students submit research reports detailing their projects and go through rigorous judging.
Finalists present their work in Washington, D.
C. , where they compete for prestigious awards.
Eligibility: Open to high school seniors in the United States.
Prizes: Top award of $250,000, with smaller awards for all finalists.
Prestige: Often referred to as the "Junior Nobel Prize," STS alumni include Nobel laureates, MacArthur Fellows, and Field Medalists.
2. International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) Description: Sponsored by the Society for Science, ISEF is a global science competition with participants from over 70 countries.
Students submit independent research projects in categories such as biology, chemistry, computer science, and engineering.
The competition includes a week-long fair where participants present their work and interact with STEM professionals.
Eligibility: Open to high school students globally who qualify through an affiliated fair.
Prizes: Awards include scholarships, internships, and a $75,000 top prize.
Prestige: Known as the world’s largest international pre-college science competition, ISEF attracts many prestigious institutions and offers students substantial recognition.
How to Win Regeneron ISEF: Rishab Jain's Winning Project
3. Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology Description: The Siemens Competition, managed by the College Board, was a highly regarded event promoting original research in STEM fields among high school students.
Although it ended in 2017, its legacy lives on as a benchmark for similar competitions.
Eligibility: Historically open to high school students in the United States.
Prizes: Prizes included scholarships up to $100,00
0. Prestige: Even though it no longer operates, the Siemens Competition remains iconic, and past winners are widely recognized in the academic community. https://youtu. be/RqNZ-L4E3Zw?si=6oIomWuq1KFk8TrA How to Pick a Science Research Project Idea: FULL GUIDE
4. Davidson Fellows Scholarship Description: The Davidson Fellows Scholarship awards extraordinary young people for significant contributions in areas like science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Students submit research projects or creative works and must demonstrate a deep understanding of their chosen topic.
Davidson Fellows are recognized for their ability to innovate and excel.
Eligibility: Open to U.
S. citizens or permanent residents aged 18 or younger.
Prizes: Scholarships of $50,000, $25,000, and $10,00
0. Prestige: Davidson Fellows are celebrated at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.
C. , and join an elite community of young innovators.
5. Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) Description: Sponsored by the U.
S.
Army, Navy, and Air Force, JSHS encourages students to engage in scientific research projects with a focus on STEM and social science disciplines.
Students first compete in regional symposia, and top winners move on to the national symposium, where they present their research to an expert panel.
Eligibility: Open to high school students in the United States.
Prizes: Awards include scholarships up to $12,00
0. Prestige: JSHS is well-respected for promoting STEM research, with finalists often securing scholarships and internships from top universities and research institutions.
6. International Research Olympiad (IRO) Description: The International Research Olympiad (IRO) is a unique, interdisciplinary competition focused on critical thinking and scientific research skills.
The competition, held annually, sees participation from students in over 45 countries, providing an international platform to test and develop analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
IRO participants go through a series of progressively challenging rounds, including data analysis, interpretation, and advanced research inquiry.
The final round features a competitive examination in which top candidates present solutions to real-world issues, preparing them for future careers in research and academia.
Eligibility: Open to students globally, ages 13-18, with a passion for research.
Prizes: Gold, silver, and bronze medals awarded to the top 15 participants; additional sponsor prizes, media features, and special recognitions are also given.
Prestige: As one of the largest global research olympiads, the IRO is a well-respected event among young researchers worldwide.
Its participants benefit from networking, mentorship, and recognition, solidifying the IRO’s reputation as a top research competition for aspiring scientists.
7. GENIUS Olympiad Description: The GENIUS Olympiad focuses on environmental issues, inviting high school students worldwide to present research projects on topics like climate change, water pollution, and renewable energy.
The competition includes categories in science, art, writing, and business, offering students a unique interdisciplinary experience.
Eligibility: Open to high school students globally.
Prizes: Scholarships, medals, and international recognition.
Prestige: GENIUS Olympiad is notable for its focus on sustainability and environmental awareness, attracting participants from over 70 countries.
8. Conrad Challenge Description: The Conrad Challenge is an entrepreneurial and innovation competition where students work in teams to solve global problems in categories like cybersecurity, health, and aerospace.
Teams create business plans and prototypes, pitching their ideas to industry leaders.
The Conrad Challenge emphasizes real-world applications and entrepreneurial skills.
Eligibility: Open to students aged 13-18 worldwide.
Prizes: Awards include scholarships, internships, and funding for prototypes.
Prestige: Known for its practical approach to innovation, the Conrad Challenge produces future entrepreneurs and changemakers.
How to WIN the Conrad Challenge: Tips and Tricks
9. BioGENEius Challenge Description: The BioGENEius Challenge is a prestigious biotechnology competition that allows students to present research on topics such as genetics, agriculture, and environmental biology.
Participants submit their work to regional competitions, and top winners compete internationally, gaining exposure to the biotech industry.
Eligibility: Open to high school students with an interest in biotechnology.
Prizes: Cash awards and mentorship opportunities with biotech leaders.
Prestige: BioGENEius is highly regarded in the biotechnology field, with winners often receiving media attention and networking opportunities in the industry. 1
0. National History Day (NHD) Contest Description: National History Day is an academic competition that encourages students to conduct original historical research and present it in various formats such as exhibits, websites, and documentaries.
The competition has an annual theme and requires students to critically analyze historical events or figures, developing skills in research and communication.
Eligibility: Open to U.
S. students in grades 6-1
2. Prizes: Awards include scholarships, certificates, and special prizes for specific themes.
Prestige: NHD is well-known for fostering historical knowledge and research skills, with many winners going on to pursue history-related careers.
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