About

The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is the world's largest pre-college science competition, bringing together high school students (grades 9-12, under age 20) from around the globe. To compete at ISEF, students must first qualify by being a finalist in an affiliated local, regional, or state science fair, typically involving multiple rounds of competition culminating by mid-April. Judging is rigorous, with over 1,000 science, engineering, and industry professionals—all possessing a PhD or equivalent degree and/or six years of relevant experience—volunteering as judges. More than 600 individual and team awards are distributed annually across 22 categories, with top category prizes ranging from $600 to $6,000 cash. Projects must be completed within specific research period limits, totaling no more than 12 months of continuous research. Students can compete as individuals or in teams of up to three members.