Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
Win up to $100,000 Top Award
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a competition by Society for Science for students in Class 9–12, open to students across India. It is free to take part.
Mode
In-Person
Eligibility
Class 9–12
Fee
Free
Duration
Approximately one week for the final event (May 10-16, 2025).
Format
Both · Teams of 3
Time needed
Significant time commitment for research, project development, and participation in qualifying fairs (4-5 months prior to the final event).
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.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 9–12
- Age Range
- 14 - 18 years
- Location
- Nationwide
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.
Additional requirements
- Must qualify by winning a top prize at an ISEF-affiliated science fair (e.g., IRIS National Fair for Indian students).
- Research projects must include no more than 12 months of continuous research.
- Research must not include work performed more than 18 months before the Regeneron ISEF competition.
- All project materials and presentations must be in English.
- Team projects are limited to three members.
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.
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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.
Rewards & 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
Rounds & 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 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.
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
Frequently asked questions
Is Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) free?
This opportunity is free to participate in.
Who can participate in Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)?
Students in Class 9–12. children aged 14-18.
What will my child gain from Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)?
1st Award: $6,000, 2nd Award: $2,400, 3rd Award: $1,200, 4th Award: $600 respectively in each of the 22 categories.. Opportunity to compete for over $9 million in awards, prizes, and scholarships.. Gain international recognition for scientific research and innovation.. Receive a Regeneron ISEF Finalist Medal and other prestigious awards.. Win up to $100,000 for top projects.. Earn Grand Award Winner Certificates recognized by Society for Science.. Significantly boost applications to top universities worldwide, including Harvard, Stanford, and MIT.. Enhance career prospects in leading STEM organizations, including internship and job opportunities at Regeneron.. Develop critical skills in scientific research, critical thinking, and communication..
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