Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
Win up to $100,000 Top Award
1,800 participants
The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world's largest pre-college science competition. The Society for Science organizes it and attracts top high school students globally.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual and team
Teams of 1 to 3
Duration
Approximately one week for the final event (May 10-16, 2025).
Time needed
Depends on the time taken to make the entry
Eligibility
Open to students in grades 9-12 (typically ages 14-19) who have not reached age 20 by May 1 of the competition year. Participants must qualify by winning at an ISEF-affiliated science fair in their region or country. Projects must be original research, conducted within specific timeframes, and presented in English. Individual and team projects (up to 3 members) are accepted.
- Grade level
- Grade 9 to 12
- Age range
- 14 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Must be a student in grades 9-12 or equivalent. Must not have reached age 20 on or before May 1 preceding ISEF.
- Prerequisites
- Successful completion of a science or engineering research project.
- Qualification through an ISEF-affiliated science fair like IRIS National Fair for Indian students.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
$100,000 Top Award
Over $9 million in awards, prizes, and scholarships are distributed. Grand Awards range from $600 to $6,000 per category. Top awards include the George D. Yancopoulos Innovator Award ($100,000), Regeneron Young Scientist Awards ($75,000 each), and the Gordon E. Moore Award ($50,000). Monetary awards are typically disbursed directly to winners.
Prizes
Finalist Medal
All finalists receive a Regeneron ISEF Finalist Medal. Special awards are also given by independent organizations.
Certificate
Grand Award Winner Certificate
Certificates are provided for Grand Award winners, recognized by the Society for Science.
Opens doors to
Winning an ISEF award is a highly recognized achievement by top universities worldwide, providing a competitive edge in college admissions and scholarship applications, particularly for STEM programs. Many winners receive direct college admission opportunities and significant scholarships. Past winners have gone to Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more.
Career pathways
Participation and success at ISEF significantly enhance career prospects in STEM, opening doors to prestigious universities, research internships, and future employment opportunities in leading scientific and technological organizations. Regeneron actively engages with ISEF alumni for internships and full-time roles.
Recognition
International Scientific Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 1 Sept 2026
- Registration closes
- 31 Jan 2027
- Competition
- 8 May 2027 to 14 May 2027
- Results
- 15 May 2027
Project Submission Deadline
Deadline for submitting official abstracts and all project presentation materials, including virtual display components. Submissions must adhere to strict guidelines.
Admit Card Release
Admit cards for qualified finalists will be available for download. These are essential for entry to the event.
Event Commencement
The Regeneron ISEF 2027 event officially begins in Los Angeles, California, with initial setup and orientation activities.
Judging and Presentations
Intensive judging sessions and project presentations take place over several days.
Awards Ceremony
The official announcement of results and the grand awards ceremony will be held.
Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles, California
How to apply
- 1Students must first compete and win at an ISEF-affiliated science fair (e.g., IRIS National Fair in India) to qualify for the international event.
- 2Qualified finalists must complete a Finalist Questionnaire and submit all required forms.
- 3Submission of an official abstract (250 words) and project presentation.
- 4Preparation of a physical display board and a virtual display on ProjectBoard.
Rules and guidelines
- All research must adhere to the International Rules for Pre-college Science Research.
- Projects must be original research; demonstrations, library research, informational projects, explanation models, and kit-building projects are not eligible.
- All written materials, including project boards and abstracts, must be in English.
- Projects undergo Display & Safety (D&S) inspections for both virtual and in-person displays.
- For multi-year projects, only the research completed during the current competition year is judged.
Technology requirements
- Access to a computer with internet for virtual display submission on ProjectBoard.
- Software for creating project presentations (e.g., presentation software, data analysis tools).
- Equipment and materials necessary for conducting the scientific research project.
About this opportunity
The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a premier global science competition for high school students, organized by the Society for Science. This multi-stage event culminates in an international fair held annually in the United States, bringing together young innovators from over 75 countries and territories. It serves as a vital platform for students to present their independent research, engage with leading scientists, and explore diverse scientific and engineering disciplines.
To qualify for ISEF, students typically advance through a series of affiliated science fairs at local, regional, state, or national levels. For Indian students, the Initiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS) National Fair serves as the pathway to represent 'Team India' at ISEF. The competition emphasizes original research, critical thinking, and effective communication of scientific ideas.
ISEF offers an unparalleled opportunity for participants to gain significant recognition for their scientific accomplishments, connect with a global network of peers and professionals, and enhance their skills in scientific inquiry and presentation. It is highly regarded by universities and can provide a significant advantage for students aspiring to pursue higher education and careers in STEM fields.
Rounds and format
The Regeneron ISEF competition involves multiple stages. Round 1: Online Abstract and Project Submission (September/October). Round 2: National-affiliated science fairs to qualify for the international science fair. Round 3: The final international event includes rigorous judging where finalists present their projects through physical display boards and virtual displays on ProjectBoard. Projects undergo Display & Safety inspections.
How entries are judged
Projects are judged on research question/problem, design and methodology, execution (construction and testing for engineering projects), creativity and potential impact, and presentation/interview. Creativity and presentation, especially the interview, are given considerable emphasis. Judges evaluate the student's understanding of the project's basic science, interpretation, and limitations of results and conclusions. For team projects, all members must demonstrate significant contributions and understanding.
Selection process
Finalists at Regeneron ISEF are evaluated across five key dimensions, with particular emphasis on creativity, impact, and communication. Judges assess the depth of scientific or engineering thought, the originality and broader implications of the project (Creativity & Potential Impact), the thoroughness of research and data analysis, and the level of skill and organization demonstrated through documentation such as lab notebooks.
How to prepare
- Official ISEF Rules and Guidelines
- Past year project abstracts and databases
- Guidance from teachers, mentors, or qualified scientists
- Scientific journals and reputable online databases for research
- Science fair mentorship programs
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The competition focuses on independent research and project development in diverse STEM fields, aligning with rigorous international science fair standards. It encourages students to explore topics beyond their regular school curriculum and engage in authentic scientific inquiry.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most effective strategies for students to succeed in a highly competitive environment like ISEF?
Success at ISEF often hinges on originality, scientific rigor, and clear communication. Students should focus on developing a unique research question, employing robust methodology, and practicing their presentation skills extensively. Mentorship from experienced scientists or educators can significantly enhance a project's quality and impact.
What common mistakes should students avoid when preparing their research projects for ISEF?
Common pitfalls include insufficient data analysis, lack of originality, poor experimental design, and inadequate understanding of the project's scientific background. Students should ensure their research is well-documented, ethically sound, and clearly articulates its significance and potential impact.
How do judges evaluate projects, and what factors contribute most to a high ranking?
Judges assess projects based on the scientific thought, creativity, thoroughness, clarity, and the student's understanding of their work. Key factors for a high ranking include a well-defined problem, innovative approach, rigorous execution, valid conclusions, and an engaging, articulate presentation during the interview.
What are the long-term benefits of participating in ISEF beyond winning awards?
Participation in ISEF offers invaluable benefits such as developing advanced research skills, critical thinking, and scientific communication. It provides unparalleled networking opportunities with global peers and leading scientists, significantly enhancing prospects for higher education and careers in STEM fields, regardless of award outcomes.
What is the role of an affiliated fair in qualifying for Regeneron ISEF?
Affiliated fairs are the primary pathway for students to qualify for Regeneron ISEF. Students must compete and win top awards at these regional or national fairs to earn the right to advance to the international competition. Each affiliated fair operates under the same ISEF rules and guidelines.
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