Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)

Competition · Society for Science

The world's largest international pre-college science and engineering research competition, bringing together roughly 1,700 students each year. You don't apply directly — you qualify by winning your way through a Society for Science-affiliated local, regional, state, or national fair (use the Find-a-Fair tool to locate yours). Projects can be solo or on a team of up to three, and finalists compete for more than $7 million in awards, prizes, and scholarships from 45+ sponsoring organizations. It's free to compete at ISEF itself, though your local affiliate fair sets its own entry process.

Who can apply

GradesGrades 9–12

Min GPA—

ScopeNational

StatesAll states

FieldsScience · Engineering · Research

SelectivityAbout 1,700 finalists annually from 365+ affiliated fairs in 60+ countries, regions, and territories.

Logistics

Cost to youFree (local affiliate fair may have its own process)

Financial aidNot listed

StipendNot listed

FormatResidential

LengthOne week each May (2026 event: May 9-15 in Phoenix)

WhereHost city rotates annually

AwardsOver $7 million in Grand Awards and Special Awards from 45+ sponsoring organizations.

Applying

DueSet by your local/state affiliated fair, not ISEF directly.

You submitQualify by winning your way through a Society-affiliated local, regional, state, or national science fair; no direct application to ISEF itself.

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