Science Without Borders® Challenge
by Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation
$500 Scholarship
An international art contest for students aged 11-19 to raise awareness about ocean conservation through art, with scholarships up to $500.
Mode
Online
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual
Duration
The competition runs annually, with submissions open for several months.
Time needed
Depends on the time taken to make the artwork
Eligibility
Open to students worldwide, including India, aged 11-19. Participants must be enrolled in a primary or secondary school or an equivalent homeschool program. College and university students are not eligible to participate.
- Grade level
- Grade 6 to 12
- Age range
- 11 to 19 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Students must be enrolled in primary or secondary school, or the home school equivalent. College and university students are not eligible.
- Prerequisites
- Passion for art and ocean conservation.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
$500
First place winners in each of the two age categories (11-14 and 15-19) receive a $500 scholarship. Second place receives $350, third place receives $200, and a 'People's Choice' winner receives $50.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
All eligible participants receive a digital certificate of participation.
Recognition
International recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 31 Aug 2026
- Registration closes
- 1 Mar 2027
- Competition
- 31 Aug 2026 to 1 Mar 2027
- Results
- 15 May 2027
Submission Deadline
All entries must be received by 11:59 PM Eastern Time (ET) on March 1, 2027. No extensions will be granted.
Online · Official Competition Website
How to apply
- 1Create an original two-dimensional artwork using traditional media like paint, pencil, marker, or crayons.
- 2Complete the official online entry form with all required details.
- 3Carefully review every year’s theme.
- 4Upload a high-quality digital photograph or scan of the artwork before the submission deadline
Rules and guidelines
- All artwork must be the original work of the contestant.
- Submissions must not infringe on any copyrights or third-party rights.
- Only one entry is permitted per student.
- Digitally created artwork and photographs are not accepted.
- Entries that do not comply with all contest rules will be disqualified.
- Artwork deemed offensive will be disqualified by the foundation.
- Artwork must be an original, 2D creation by the student.
Technology requirements
- A computer or mobile device with internet access for online submission.
- A digital camera or scanner to create a high-quality image of the artwork.
About this opportunity
The Science Without Borders® Challenge is a prestigious international art contest engaging students in ocean conservation through creative expression. Organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, this annual competition invites young artists to raise public awareness about the need to preserve, protect, and restore the world's oceans.
This global competition is open to all students aged 11 to 19 enrolled in primary or secondary school, including homeschool equivalents. It offers a unique platform for students, including those from India, to showcase their artistic talent and passion for environmental science on an international stage, with winners receiving scholarships and global recognition.
Rounds and format
Single round competition
How entries are judged
Artwork is evaluated on its quality, originality, and adherence to the theme. Judges use a grading rubric, considering creativity, artistry, craftsmanship, visual impact, and the artist's understanding of the contest theme as conveyed in the artwork and artist's statement.
Selection process
Submissions are judged based on artistic merit, originality, and how well they convey the theme of marine keystone species and ocean conservation. Finalists are selected for their creativity, originality, and strong connection to the theme, with winners receiving scholarships.
How to prepare
- Official contest rules and guidelines
- Information and resources about the annual theme (e.g., Marine Keystone Species)
- Tips for Success
- Guidelines for Submitting Artwork
- Grading Rubric
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The competition aligns with school curricula in art, biology, and environmental science, encouraging interdisciplinary learning.
Frequently asked questions
How can participants effectively convey complex ocean conservation themes through their artwork?
Participants can achieve this by conducting thorough research on the chosen theme, utilizing strong visual metaphors, and employing artistic techniques that evoke emotion and understanding. A well-crafted artist's statement can also enhance the artwork's message.
What are common mistakes participants make in art competitions and how can they be avoided?
Common mistakes include not fully understanding the theme, submitting artwork that lacks originality, or failing to adhere to technical guidelines. Avoiding these requires careful reading of rules, seeking feedback, and ensuring the artwork is genuinely unique.
How do judges evaluate artistic merit and originality in a competition focused on a scientific theme?
Judges assess artistic merit through composition, technique, and visual impact. Originality is evaluated by the uniqueness of the concept and execution. The integration of the scientific theme without compromising artistic quality is crucial for high scores.
What is the long-term impact of participating in an international art competition like this?
Participation offers significant benefits, including global recognition, portfolio enhancement, and the development of critical thinking and artistic skills. It also fosters a deeper commitment to environmental stewardship and provides networking opportunities.
How can participants manage competitive pressure and maintain creativity throughout the submission process?
Managing pressure involves focusing on personal growth rather than solely on winning, setting realistic goals, and practicing mindfulness. Maintaining creativity can be achieved through regular artistic practice, seeking inspiration, and allowing for iterative development of ideas.
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