The oldest U.S. science research competition for high school seniors, run by Society for Science and open to students in their last year of secondary school in the U.S. and its territories, regardless of citizenship. Entries are reviewed by three or more PhD scientists, mathematicians or engineers. The 300 scholars and their schools each receive $2,000, and 40 finalists each win at least $25,000 plus an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, DC.
Offered by Society for Science. Competition for high school students in USA. Format: In-person. Cost: Stipend. Grades 12–12. Deadline: 2026-11-05.
Fields: STEM, Research
Info checked November 2026.
The Regeneron Science Talent Search is the oldest science and mathematics competition for high school seniors in the United States, and the one that focuses on original research rather than an exam.
Around 2,600 students enter each year, submitting original research in a scientific field together with a full application that is read holistically.
$3.1 million in awards is distributed annually. The first place prize is $250,000. Of the entrants, 300 are named Scholars and 40 go through to the finals in Washington, D.C.
$3.1 million is distributed annually, with a first place prize of $250,000.
Around 2,600 a year. 300 are named Scholars and 40 become finalists.
Details checked on 2026-09-23 against the program's own page.
More academic competitions for high school students