Are you ready to take on the exciting world of STEM competitions and events in 2023? If you want your kids to stay ahead of the game and dive into thrilling challenges that push the boundaries of science, technology, engineering, and math, this is their chance.
STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, encompasses various disciplines that drive innovation and shape the future. In this guide, we’ll unveil the most exciting competitions and events lined up for 2023, offering your child an exclusive opportunity to explore, compete, and showcase their skills in the ever-evolving landscape of STEM.
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What is a STEM Competition?
STEM competitions serve as dynamic platforms that enable individuals or student teams to tackle targeted challenges or problems by harnessing the power of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These captivating competitions often revolve around real-world issues, inviting participants to unleash their creativity and apply critical thinking to devise solutions.
By blending practical knowledge with ingenuity, participants engage in a thrilling journey where they hone their STEM skills and contribute to addressing the pressing problems of our time. Whether designing cutting-edge technologies, engineering sustainable solutions, or unraveling complex scientific phenomena, STEM competitions empower individuals to make a tangible impact while nurturing their passion for innovation.
Reasons Your Child or Teen Should Enter a STEM Competition
Are you wondering why your child or teen should dive into the world of STEM competitions? Let us enlighten you with a few compelling reasons that might ignite their passion for these exciting events.
Not only do STEM competitions offer an exceptional opportunity to learn about STEM subjects and develop crucial skills, but they also serve as a fun and engaging platform to connect with like-minded students who share a similar zeal for innovation. Additionally, some competitions bring enticing perks like cash prizes and the chance to embark on exciting travel adventures.
And here’s a bonus benefit: participating in STEM competitions adds an impressive touch to college applications, showcasing your child’s dedication and commitment to academic excellence. So, let’s explore the remarkable value of STEM education together!
Here’s a list of reasons why your child or teen should enter a STEM competition:
1. Great way to learn about STEM and develop skills
STEM competitions provide hands-on experiences where participants can deepen their understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while honing essential critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
2. Fun way to meet like-minded students
These competitions bring together bright young minds who share a passion for STEM. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your child to connect with peers with similar interests, fostering collaboration, friendship, and the exchange of ideas.
3. Boosts communication skills and confidence
STEM competitions offer a supportive platform for participants to break out of their comfort zones and enhance their communication skills. Your child or teen can build confidence and develop practical communication abilities by presenting their ideas, explaining their methodologies, and engaging in discussions with judges and peers. These invaluable skills will empower them to articulate their thoughts clearly, collaborate effectively, and excel in future academic and professional pursuits.
4. Some contests provide cash prizes and opportunities to travel
Apart from the intellectual excitement, many STEM competitions offer attractive incentives such as cash rewards, scholarships, internships, and even the chance to travel to exciting destinations, giving your child a taste of adventure and recognition for their hard work.
5. Looks great on college applications
Participation in STEM competitions showcases your child’s dedication, passion, and commitment to academic excellence. College admissions officers value such experiences, as they demonstrate initiative, leadership potential, and a genuine interest in STEM fields.
STEM Competitions (High School)
Are you ready to explore the thrilling world of STEM competitions designed explicitly for high-school-aged kids? These competitions offer an exhilarating experience and numerous benefits that can shape your child’s academic and personal growth. From fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills to building teamwork and resilience, STEM competitions empower high school students to unleash their potential and stand out in the competitive landscape of STEM education. In this section, we have curated a handpicked list of 10 outstanding STEM competitions tailored for high school participants, arranged in alphabetical order.
1. American Regions Mathematics League (ARML) Contest
Description: A comprehensive mathematics contest consisting of multiple rounds, including team, individual, and relay rounds.
Eligibility: High school enrollment is required.
Date: ARML 2023 competition was held on June 2-3, 2023. Details for 2024 are yet to be announced.
Location: Held at various universities throughout the United States.
Prize: Top teams are awarded various prizes.
Learn more: ARML Contest
2. Congressional App Challenge
Description: A public challenge where high school students ideate, code, and build their own apps.
Eligibility: High school enrollment is required.
Date: The challenge begins June 15 run to November 1, 2023.
Location: Online.
Prize: Recognition by the Member of Congress and display of winning work in the Capitol Building.
Learn more: Congressional App Challenge
3. FIRST Robotics Competition
Description: An intense robotics competition where high school students collaborate to solve a common problem with limited resources.
Eligibility: Grades 9-12. Teams of 10 or more students.
Date: Registration for the 2024 season opens on May 17, 2023.
Location: Regional/state tournaments across the US and the world.
Prize: Access to over $50 million in possible scholarships.
Learn more: FIRST Robotics Competition
4. GAMA Aviation Design Challenge
Description: An annual aviation design challenge where students design, build, and test an aircraft in a virtual fly-off.
Eligibility: High school enrollment is required.
Date: Registration for the 2024 Challenge opens in August 2023.
Location: At the registered school.
Prize: All-expenses-paid trip for the winning team, scholarships, and STEM Lab Camp opportunities.
Learn more: GAMA Aviation Design Challenge
5. Intel ISEF
Description: The world’s largest global science competition for high schoolers.
Eligibility: Grades 9-12.
Date: The competition cycle starts at Society-affiliated fairs. For a list of Society-affiliated fairs click here.
Location: In-person event complemented by a virtual site for sharing projects.
Prize: Individual and team prizes totaling thousands of dollars.
Learn more: Intel ISEF
6. Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
Description: A STEM competition where students present their original scientific research to judges and peers.
Eligibility: Grades 9-12.
Date: Deadlines vary by region.
Location: Regional competitions held nationwide.
Prize: Scholarships awarded at regional and national levels.
Learn more: Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
7. M3 Challenge
Description: A unique applied math-modeling competition focusing on real-world issues.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors in the U.S., England, and Wales.
Date: Details for 2024 are yet to be announced.
Location: Online.
Prize: Over $100,000 in scholarship prizes.
Learn more: M3 Challenge
8. Microsoft Imagine Cup
Description: A global software and game design competition fostering teamwork and addressing real-world problems.
Eligibility: Ages 16 and above.
Date: 2024 registration is now open.
Location: Online.
Prize: Grand prize of $100,000.
Learn more: Microsoft Imagine Cup
9. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)
Description: The nation’s oldest and most prestigious science research and mathematics competition.
Eligibility: High school seniors.
Date: The application period for the 2024 competition opens on June 1, 2023.
Location: Finalists gather in Washington, D.C. for presentations and final judging.
Prize: Over $2 million in awards, with a first-place prize of $250,000.
Learn more: Regeneron STS
10. THINK Challenges
Description: A competition for high school students engaging in an original research project.
Eligibility: High school students.
Date: 2024 details to be announced in November 2023.
Location: Application is online.
Prize: Mentorship, funding, and the opportunity to visit MIT’s campus.
Learn more: THINK Challenges
STEM Competitions (Middle School)
Are you ready to unleash the potential of your young aspiring scientists and engineers? Middle school is the perfect time to dive into the exciting world of STEM competitions specifically for young minds.
These competitions offer a unique platform for middle schoolers to showcase their talents, ignite their curiosity, and explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We have curated a list of nine extraordinary STEM competitions in alphabetical order that will challenge and inspire your child to reach new heights of innovation and problem-solving. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey of discovery and competition.
1. Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge (JIC)
Description: Currently in its inaugural year, the Thermo Fisher JIC (previously the Broadcom MASTERS from 2010-2022, the Society’s Middle School Program (2008), and the Discovery Channel Young Scientists Challenge (1999-2007), is a premier STEM competition for middle school students.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8 must compete at a Society-affiliated science fair to earn a nomination.
Date: Registration opened February 1, 2023 and closes June 14th, 2023
Location: Online, but finalists meet in Washington DC for Finals Week.
Prize: Prizes include the $25,000 Thermo Fisher Scientific ASCEND Award, scientific excursions, and cash awards to finalists’ schools and instructors.
Learn more: Junior Innovators Challenge
2. America’s Top Young Scientist
Description: Showcase your unique problem-solving skills in a 1-2 minute video competition. Finalists compete in the National Finals.
Eligibility: Open to grades 5–8 students in the United States.
Date: Registration for the 2024 competition likely opens in December 2023.
Location: Online registration available; National Finals location to be announced.
Prize: In 2023, top students compete for a $25,000 grand prize and a chance to work with a 3M mentor.
Learn more: Young Scientist Lab
3. eCyberMission
Description: Engage in a STEM competition focused on proposing solutions to real community issues.
Eligibility: Teams of grades 6–9 students with an adult team advisor.
Date: Online registration opens in August 2023.
Location: Online.
Prize: State winners receive $500 US Series EE Savings Bonds per student. Regional winners receive additional $500 Bonds and a paid trip to the finals. National winners receive an additional $3,000 in Bonds.
Learn more: eCyber Mission
4. Future City
Description: Research, design, and build cities that tackle citywide sustainability issues.
Eligibility: Open to grades 6-8 students with an educator or mentor as a coach.
Date: Registration for the 2023-2024 competition is now open, with varying deadlines by region.
Location: 2022-2023 finals were held in Washington, D.C.; 2023-2024 details to be announced.
Prize: Grand prize includes a trip to space camp and a $7,500 cash award.
Learn more: Future City
5. Junior Solar Sprint
Description: Design, build, and race solar-powered cars using engineering skills and scientific principles.
Eligibility: Open to grades 5–8 students.
Date: Registration for the 2023 Junior Solar Sprint program is currently open.
Location: Regional locations to be announced.
Prize: Check the website for more details.
Learn more: Junior Solar Sprint (JSS)
6. MathCounts
Description: Compete in live, in-person mathematics contests against peers at regional, state, and national levels.
Eligibility: Open to all grades 6-8 students; registration through school coaches.
Date: Registration for the 2023-2024 school year opens in the fall.
Location: Over 500 regional competitions nationwide.
Prize: Varies each year.
Learn more: Math Counts
7. National Science Bee
Description: Engage in a science-themed, buzzer-based academic quiz competition.
Eligibility: Students in eighth grade and younger.
Date: 2024 details to be announced; expect the Online Regional Qualifying Exam in late September 2023.
Location: To be announced.
Prize: Past awards have included $1,500 worth of total prizes.
Learn more: National Science Bee
8. Perennial Math Tournaments
Description: Participate in online, virtual, or in-person math tournaments with varying rules.
Eligibility: Open to grades 3–8 students.
Date: Registration is now open. Online tournaments have two seasons (Nov–Feb, Jan–Apr). On-site tournaments occur throughout the year, with winners advancing to the National Championship in May.
Location: Online or on-site.
Prize: Championship trophy.
Learn more: Perennial Math
9. Project CS Girls
Description: Close the gender gap in STEM by building something using computer science and technology to solve a social problem.
Eligibility: Middle school girls.
Date: 2023 competition details to be announced.
Location: National Gala held in Washington, D.C.
Prize: Three grand prize winners receive national recognition, an all-expenses-paid trip to the National Gala, certificates, plaques, electronics, gadgets, and other various prizes.
Learn more: Project CS Girls
10. You Be the Chemist
Description: Explore chemistry concepts and their real-world applications in an interactive academic contest.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 5–8.
Date: The 2023 National Challenge took place on June 13, 2023. 2024 details will be released in October 2023.
Location: Over 40 states participate, with both in-person and virtual events. The 2023 National Challenge was held in Houston, TX.
Prize: Check the website for more details.
Learn more: You Be the Chemist
STEM Competitions (Various Ages)
Are your kids ready to unleash their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)? Look no further! We have curated an exceptional selection of STEM competitions that cater to various age groups, offering exciting opportunities for individuals of all ages to showcase their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Whether you’re a budding scientist, a tech enthusiast, or an engineering prodigy, these competitions provide a platform for you to immerse yourself in the world of STEM and make your mark on the future.
1. American Mathematics Competitions (AMC)
Description: Engage in a series of mathematics tournaments and competitions designed to enhance analytical thinking and problem-solving skills among middle and high school students. Explore classroom resources and embrace friendly competition.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 8–12.
Date: Details for 2024 are yet to be announced, but registration is expected to open in early September 2023.
Location: Competitions take place nationwide and online.
Prize: Visit the website for more information.
Learn more: American Mathematics Competitions
2. ArcGIS Online Competition for US High School & Middle School Students
Description: Unleash your creativity by designing and executing a research project relevant to your home state, then present it through an ArcGIS StoryMap. Each state selects the top five submissions, with one chosen from middle and high school to compete nationally.
Eligibility: Open to high school (grades 9-12) and middle school (grades 4-8) students across the United States.
Date: Details for 2024 are yet to be announced.
Location: The competition takes place online.
Prize: Participating states can award up to $1000 prizes to the top five high school and middle school projects. National prizes are announced annually.
Learn more: ArcGIS
3. Bebras Computing Challenge
Description: Embark on the Bebras Computing Challenge, a thrilling online competition featuring various topics related to informatics and computational thinking. Students have 45 minutes to tackle 15 problems, putting their skills to the test.
Eligibility: Open to students ages 6-18.
Date: The next Bebras Challenge is scheduled for November 2023.
Location: Take part in the challenge online at your own school.
Prize: No specific prizes are mentioned on the website.
Learn more: Bebras Computing Challenge
4. BEST Robotics Competition
Description: Immerse yourself in the exciting world of robotics through the BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science & Technology) Robotics Competition. This hands-on competition empowers middle and high school students to apply math concepts, physics principles, and problem-solving skills to real-world science and engineering challenges.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students.
Date: Registration dates vary by competition, with 2024 registration likely opening in September 2023.
Location: Competitions take place at various locations.
Prize: Prizes vary at regional, state, and national levels. Visit the website for more details.
Learn more: BEST Robotics Challenge
5. CodeChef
Description: CodeChef provides coding competitions and contests tailored for beginners to explore the world of competitive coding. Enhance your skills with practice problems and monthly contests that foster confidence and proficiency in coding.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades K-12.
Date: Competitions are held on June 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th of 2023.
Location: Competitions are conducted online.
Prize: No specific prizes are mentioned on the website.
Learn more: CodeChef
6. Collegiate Wind Competition
Description: Engage in a year-long journey where teams of undergraduate students conceptualize, construct, and evaluate a prototype wind turbine, along with developing a site plan and cost-of-energy analysis for a wind farm.
Eligibility: Open to interdisciplinary teams of undergraduate students.
Date: Registration for 2024 is currently open. Interested teams can apply from May 1 to June 15, 2023. The selection process for competitors takes place from June 16 to December 2023, during which teams complete their deliverables and aspire to secure one of the 12 finalist spots.
Location: The 2023 Final Event will be hosted in Boulder, CO.
Prize: Cash prizes await teams that progress through the three competition phases. The Grand Prize Awards grant winning teams a share of up to $30,000 from the cash prize pool.
Learn more: Collegiate Wind Competition
7. The Conrad Challenge
Description: The Conrad Challenge is a purpose-driven innovation competition that aims to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs. It unfolds in four stages: Activation, Lean Canvas, Innovation, and Power Pitch.
Eligibility: Students between 13 and 18 are eligible to participate.
Date: Details for 2024 are yet to be announced.
Location: The finals take place at the Innovation Summit held at Space Center Houston, TX.
Prize: The highest-scoring team in each category earns the prestigious title of Pete Conrad Scholar, unlocking scholarships, pro-bono legal and consulting services, and a Dell Chromebook.
Learn more: Conrad Challenge
8. The Department of Energy (DOE) National Science Bowl
Description: The DOE National Science Bowl is among the largest academic competitions in the nation, assessing students’ knowledge across various science and math disciplines. Teams engage in fast-paced question-and-answer sessions, with regional qualifiers progressing to the National Science Bowl.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students. Teams should include one alternative student and one coach.
Date: Details for 2024 registration are yet to be disclosed. The 2024 National Finals are scheduled for April 25-29, 2024, and the 2025 National Finals will take place from April 24-28, 2025.
Location: All 50 states participate
Prize: Regional prizes vary. For more information, kindly refer to the official website.
Learn more: DOE National Science Bowl
9. Destination Imagination STEM Team Challenges
Description: Collaborative teams tackle open-ended STEAM challenges designed to foster the creative process. A range of team programs is available, including a captivating four-day camp exploring the convergence of science, art, and technology.
Eligibility: Participation is open to individuals from kindergarten through university.
Date: Dates vary by region. Team numbers for the 2023-2024 season can be acquired starting on Monday, July 17, 2023, and all 2023-2024 Challenges will be accessible on Tuesday, August 15, 2023.
Location: Operating in 45 states and 30 countries. The 2023 Global Finals are set to be held in Kansas City, MO.
Prize: Further information is available on their website.
Learn more: Destination Imagination
10. Exploravision
Description: Encouraging imagination and forward-thinking, Exploravision prompts participants to engage in real-world problem-solving rooted in STEM.
Eligibility: Teams of 2–4 students in grades K–12 from U.S. or Canadian public, private, or home schools.
Date: Details for 2024 are yet to be announced, but a rolling admission period will be provided.
Location: Online.
Prize: Four winning teams receive U.S. EE Savings Bonds worth $10,000 at maturity. Other prizes for second place, finalists, and honorable mentions are also awarded.
Learn more: Exploravision
11. F1 In Schools
Description: F1 In Schools challenges student teams to design, manufacture, and race the “car of the future” inspired by Formula 1. The competition progresses through regional, state, national, and world levels.
Eligibility: Students aged 9-19 in teams of 3–6 members.
Date: Registration is currently open.
Location: Nationwide participation. The 2023 World Finals will be hosted in Singapore.
Prize: Access to recruiters from prestigious universities and other prizes, which may vary. Visit the website for further details.
Learn more: F1 in Schools
12. FIRST LEGO League
Description: FIRST LEGO League offers students compelling and hands-on experiences, challenging them to communicate and design art in unique and original ways.
Eligibility: Students ages 4-16 (with three age divisions: 4-6, 6-10, and 9-16).
Date: The MASTERPIECE challenge debuts on August 1, 2023.
Location: Online.
Prize: Details are available on the website.
Learn more: FIRST LEGO League
13. FIRST Tech Challenge
Description: FIRST Tech Challenge is a robotics competition where teams of students develop an engineering mindset. Participants are responsible for designing, constructing, and programming robots within a 10-week period, culminating in head-to-head alliance competitions. Winners of regional/state tournaments advance to the FIRST National Championship.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 7–12.
Date: Registration for the 2023-2024 season is currently open. The competition season commences in September, with regional/state tournaments from October to April, followed by the FIRST Championship in April.
Location: Regional and state competitions are held across the United States.
Prize: Participants gain access to over $80 million in available scholarships.
Learn more: FIRST Tech Challenge
14. Fluor Challenge
Description: The Fluor Challenge is a hands-on engineering contest encouraging students to accomplish exciting tasks using limited resources, fostering creativity and innovation.
Eligibility: K–12 students as individuals or teams of up to four students.
Date: The winners for 2023 have already been announced, and details for 2024 are yet to be determined.
Location: Online.
Prize: Ten teams are randomly selected to receive $1,000 prizes for their schools!
Learn more: Fluor Challenge
15. Future Engineers Challenges
Description: Future Engineers Challenges offers innovation challenges for K–12 students. Each challenge provides rules, lessons, and resources to introduce the task, teach STEM topics, brainstorm designs, and prepare students for submission.
Eligibility: Open to students in Grades K–12.
Date: Dates vary depending on the challenge.
Location: Online.
Prize: Prizes vary based on the specific challenge.
Learn more: Future Engineers
16. Genes in Space
Description: Genes in Space is a contest challenging students in grades 7–12 to design DNA experiments for space. The winning experiment is conducted aboard the International Space Station.
Eligibility: U.S. students enrolled in grades 7-12.
Date: The 2023 finals took place from July 31 to August 3, 2023. Registration and design time for 2024 runs from January to April 2024.
Location: The 2023 Genes in Space finals were hosted at the ISS Research & Development Conference in Seattle, WA.
Prize: Finalists, Honorable Mentions, Junior Scientist Awardees, and Constellation Awardees receive a P51 Florenscence Biotechnology kit valued at $800 for their schools.
Learn more: Genes in Space
17. International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC)
Description: The International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC) is an exciting event centered around Scratch coding. Children from around the globe can participate by submitting their own Scratch projects. The IKCC organizes competitions throughout the year, each focusing on different topics.
Eligibility: Open to students aged 7 to 14 years old.
Date: Mark your calendars for September 1 to September 30, 2023.
Location: The competition occurs online, allowing participants to join from anywhere.
Prize: Winners receive a Special Award Certificate for their exceptional coding skills.
Learn more: International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC)
18. International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI)
Description: The International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) is an annual nationwide competition in India organized by IARCS. This prestigious event aims to identify school students with exceptional talent in algorithms and computer programming.
Eligibility: The Indian Computing Olympiad is open to students from all school boards across the country, from grades 1 to 12. There is no minimum age requirement for participation.
Date: Registration for ZIO-2024 and ZCO-2024 opens around October 1, 2023, with further details to be announced in September 2023.
Location: The online competition allows participants to showcase their skills remotely.
Prize: Please refer to the official website for information regarding prizes.
Learn more: IARCS website -IOI
19. LEGO Rebrick Contests
Description: LEGO Rebrick Contests offer a fantastic opportunity for LEGO enthusiasts aged 13 and above to showcase their creativity and building skills. Participants can submit digital photos and videos of their custom LEGO creations to win various exciting prizes.
Eligibility: The contests are open to LEGO fans over 13.
Date: Various contests have different due dates, so check the specific deadlines.
Location: Submissions are made online, allowing participants to participate from anywhere.
Prize: Prizes include rare signed LEGO sets, the opportunity to display and use your creation, and even all-expenses-paid trips.
Learn more: LEGO Rebrick Contests
20. 2023 International SeaPerch Challenge
Description: The International SeaPerch Challenge invites students to dive into the fascinating world of underwater robotics by building their own remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Through this competition, students gain essential engineering, design, and science skills while exploring the depths of underwater robotics.
Eligibility: The program is designed for students in grades 5-12, aged 10-18.
Date: The 2023 Finals took place on May 13, 2023, and regional competitions occur at various times.
Location: The 2023 Finals were held at the University of Maryland campus.
Prize: Please refer to the competition website for details on prizes.
Learn more: SeaPerch Challenge
21. MATE ROV Competition
Description: The MATE ROV Competition is a globally recognized underwater robotics challenge that engages participants in an exciting exploration of marine technology. This competition encourages learners of all ages, from kindergarten to college, to immerse themselves in underwater robotics.
Eligibility: The competition welcomes participants from kindergarten to college.
Date: The competition is ongoing, providing opportunities for participation throughout the year.
Location: The MATE ROV Competition takes place online, ensuring accessibility to participants worldwide.
Prize: Please refer to the competition’s website for information regarding prizes.
Learn more: MATE ROV Competition
22. Math League
Description: Math League offers a series of competitions designed to challenge teams of elementary, middle, and high school students. These contests expose participants to various new and engaging math problems, culminating in National Championships held in the spring.
Eligibility: The competitions are open to students in grades 3-12.
Date: Regional and state-level contests occur throughout the fall and winter, with registration held on a rolling basis.
Location: The competitions are held at various locations across the United States.
Prize: Prizes vary based on the competition level and location.
Learn more: Math League
23. National STEM League
Description: The National STEM League offers an engaging team-oriented STEM competition to prepare students for future professional endeavors. This league emphasizes the importance of teamwork and provides students with valuable skills in algebra and physics that can be applied to daily life.
Eligibility: The competition is open to middle and high school students.
Date: Competition dates vary by event, with the 2023 competitions held from February 11 to May 17. Details for the 2024 competitions are yet to be announced.
Location: Regional competitions occur throughout the United States, offering various options such as the Online Points Race, Face-to-Face Competitions, and Micro and 1-Day Challenges.
Prize: Check the official website for more details on prizes.
Learn more: National STEM League
24. NCF Envirothon
Description: The NCF Envirothon is an annual competition where high school students in grades 9-12 demonstrate their critical thinking skills by developing innovative solutions to complex environmental and natural resource challenges. This event serves as a platform for students to showcase their understanding of current environmental issues.
Eligibility: The competition is open to high school students in grades 9-12, aged 14-19. Teams consist of five students from the same school or organization, with an adult team advisor required.
Date: The finals for 2023 are scheduled to run from July 23-29.
Location: Each year, a different city hosts the NCF Envirothon. In 2023, the event will be held at Mount Allison University in New Brunswick, Canada.
Prize: Visit the competition website for details regarding prizes.
Learn more: NCF Envirothon
25. Odyssey of the Mind
Description: Odyssey of the Mind is an exciting competition where teams of students collaborate under pressure to devise creative solutions to various problems. Students enhance their problem-solving skills through this competition and unleash their natural creativity.
Eligibility: Teams can participate by purchasing a school or community group membership. Each team consists of up to seven students and one adult coach.
Date: The 2023 World Finals will be held from May 24-27, 2023.
Location: The 2023 World Finals will occur in East Lansing, MI.
Prize: Awards are granted to teams based on their performance, with trophies, plaques, ribbons, medals, and special certificates presented to the first, second, and third-place winners at the World Finals.
Learn more: Odyssey of the Mind
26. Purple Comet Math Meet
Description: The Purple Comet Math Meet is an international mathematics competition for middle and high school students. Participants compete by submitting solutions to a list of mathematics problems within ten days, allowing flexibility in choosing a convenient start time. The problems in the competition range in difficulty.
Eligibility: Teams of middle and high school students can participate with the guidance of an adult supervisor.
Date: Details for the 2024 competition are yet to be announced.
Location: The competition takes place online, enabling participation from anywhere.
Prize: Visit the competition’s website for further details on prizes.
Learn more: Purple Comet Math Meet
27. Science Olympiad
Description: Science Olympiad is a prestigious science competition that aims to foster K-12 and teacher engagement in STEM fields. Since its establishment in 1984, Science Olympiad has continually evolved to reflect the dynamic nature of earth science, chemistry, genetics, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering, and technology.
Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary by state.
Date: Competition dates vary by state.
Location: The 2023 Science Olympiad National Tournament will be hosted at Wichita State University.
Prize: Host universities and sponsors offer a range of awards, trophies, cash scholarships, tuition awards, and prizes. For detailed information, please refer to the website.
Learn more: Science Olympiad
28. Scratch Olympiad
Description: The Scratch Olympiad is a global coding competition designed for children worldwide. Participants can compete individually or in teams by submitting their own Scratch projects.
Eligibility: Open to students aged 7 and above, as well as adults.
Date: The competition schedule will be announced at a later date.
Location: Online
Prize: Participants receive a certificate and an award.
Learn more: Scratch Olympiad
29. Siemens Competition in Math, Science, and Technology
Description: Since 1999, the Siemens Competition has empowered high school students to explore research projects and enhance their understanding of scientific investigation. Participants submit and present their projects in various fields, with evaluations based on scientific importance, creativity, field knowledge, thoroughness, interpretation, literature review, future work, expression, and presentation skills. The Siemens Competition has been instrumental in fostering the growth of aspiring scientists, igniting a passion for discovery and excellence.
Eligibility: Open to high school students.
Date: Details for the 2024 competition will be announced later.
Location: Online
Prize: Check the competition website for an updated list of awards.
Learn more: Siemens Competition
30. Solar Decathlon
Description: Solar Decathlon is an international collegiate competition that equips the next generation of building professionals with the skills to design and construct high-performance, low-carbon buildings powered by renewable energy sources.
Eligibility: Open to collegiate teams.
Date: Details for the 2024 competition will be announced later.
Location: Online
Prize: In 2017, cash prizes were introduced, with all participants receiving a minimum of $100,000 upon successfully completing the competition. Additional cash awards were given based on rankings, and the top team received a total of $300,000.
Learn more: Solar Decathlon
31. Team America Rocketry Challenge
Description: Often referred to as the world’s largest student rocket contest, the Team America Rocketry Challenge challenges students to design, build, and launch a rocket carrying a raw egg to a specific altitude and safely return it.
Eligibility: Teams of 3-10 students in grades 7-12.
Date: Registration for the 2024 competition is expected to open in May 2023.
Location: The 2023 National Finals will occur at Great Meadow in The Plains, VA. Details for 2024 are yet to be determined.
Prize: Winning teams share over $100,000 in cash and scholarships. The first-place team receives $20,000, with an additional $1,000 awarded to their school.
Learn more: Team America Rocketry Challenge
32. U.S.A. Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS)
Description: The U.S.A. Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS) presents participants with a challenging math problem they have an entire month to solve. Mathematicians then grade solutions, and participants receive feedback to enhance their problem-solving and writing skills.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students.
Date: Registration is ongoing.
Location: Online
Prize: Participants are eligible for various prizes throughout the year, including books and software. Top scorers are also invited to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), a critical step for applying to the USA Mathematical Olympiad Team.
Learn more: USAMTS
33. VEX Robotics Competitions
Description: Organized by The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, VEX Robotics Competitions require teams of students to design and build robots that compete against other teams in game-based engineering challenges. The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes the world championship as the largest robotics competition.
Eligibility: Open to students from elementary to collegiate levels, with a minimum age requirement of 8.
Date: Tournaments are held annually at regional, state, and national levels.
Location: Competitions take place worldwide.
Prize: Check the competition website for more detailed information.
Learn more: VEX Robotics Competitions
34. Wonder League Robotics
Description: Wonder League Robotics is a robotics and programming challenge where teams compete in three rounds over a five-month period under the guidance of a coach. Successful teams from the preliminary rounds are invited to the open invitational, where they compete face-to-face with other teams.
Eligibility: Kids aged 6-8 can participate in the Innovator Cup, while youth aged 9-12 can compete in the Pioneer Cup. Each team must have at least one adult coach.
Date: The competition is held year-round. Registration for the 2023-2024 season is expected to open in October 2023, with competitions from November to March. The 2023 finals are scheduled for May.
Location: Registration is online, and preliminary competition rounds are conducted remotely.
The grand prize includes a $5,000 STEM grant, national recognition, and a Dash Robot for each team member.
Learn more: Wonder League Robotics
STEM Contests Provide Invaluable Opportunities for Kids
Participating in science and robotics competitions offers invaluable opportunities for students to explore their passions, develop critical skills, and expand their knowledge in STEM fields. Whether it’s the excitement of designing rockets, coding innovative projects, or solving complex math problems, these competitions inspire young minds to reach new heights.
As a leading provider of coding education, CodaKid is committed to empowering young learners to thrive in these competitions and beyond. With their comprehensive online courses and expert guidance, CodaKid equips students with the coding skills and creativity needed to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Join CodaKid today and unlock your potential to conquer the challenges and succeed in these thrilling competitions.
