Are you ready to take on the exciting world of STEM competitions and events in 2025-2026? If you want your kids to stay ahead of the game and dive into thrilling challenges that push the boundaries of science, technology, engineering, and math, this is their chance.
STEM, which stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, encompasses various disciplines that drive innovation and shape the future. In this guide, we’ll unveil the most exciting competitions and events lined up for 2025-2026, offering your child an exclusive opportunity to explore, compete, and showcase their skills in the ever-evolving landscape of STEM.
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What is a STEM Competition?
STEM competitions serve as dynamic platforms that enable individuals or student teams to tackle targeted challenges or problems by harnessing the power of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These captivating competitions often revolve around real-world issues, inviting participants to unleash their creativity and apply critical thinking to devise solutions.
By blending practical knowledge with ingenuity, participants engage in a thrilling journey where they hone their STEM skills and contribute to addressing the pressing problems of our time. Whether designing cutting-edge technologies, engineering sustainable solutions, or unraveling complex scientific phenomena, STEM competitions empower individuals to make a tangible impact while nurturing their passion for innovation.
Reasons Your Child or Teen Should Enter a STEM Competition
Are you wondering why your child or teen should dive into the world of STEM competitions? Let us enlighten you with a few compelling reasons that might ignite their passion for these exciting events.
Not only do STEM competitions offer an exceptional opportunity to learn about STEM subjects and develop crucial skills, but they also serve as a fun and engaging platform to connect with like-minded students who share a similar zeal for innovation. Additionally, some competitions bring enticing perks like cash prizes and the chance to embark on exciting travel adventures.
And here’s a bonus benefit: participating in STEM competitions adds an impressive touch to college applications, showcasing your child’s dedication and commitment to academic excellence. So, let’s explore the remarkable value of STEM education together!
Here’s a list of reasons why your child or teen should enter a STEM competition:
1. Great way to learn about STEM and develop skills
STEM competitions provide hands-on experiences where participants can deepen their understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics while honing essential critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
2. Fun way to meet like-minded students
These competitions bring together bright young minds who share a passion for STEM. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your child to connect with peers with similar interests, fostering collaboration, friendship, and the exchange of ideas.
3. Boosts communication skills and confidence
STEM competitions offer a supportive platform for participants to break out of their comfort zones and enhance their communication skills. Your child or teen can build confidence and develop practical communication abilities by presenting their ideas, explaining their methodologies, and engaging in discussions with judges and peers. These invaluable skills will empower them to articulate their thoughts clearly, collaborate effectively, and excel in future academic and professional pursuits.
4. Some contests provide cash prizes and opportunities to travel
Apart from the intellectual excitement, many STEM competitions offer attractive incentives such as cash rewards, scholarships, internships, and even the chance to travel to exciting destinations, giving your child a taste of adventure and recognition for their hard work.
5. Looks great on college applications
Participation in STEM competitions showcases your child’s dedication, passion, and commitment to academic excellence. College admissions officers value such experiences, as they demonstrate initiative, leadership potential, and a genuine interest in STEM fields.
STEM Competitions (High School)
Are you ready to explore the thrilling world of STEM competitions designed explicitly for high-school-aged kids? These competitions offer an exhilarating experience and numerous benefits that can shape your child’s academic and personal growth. From fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills to building teamwork and resilience, STEM competitions empower high school students to unleash their potential and stand out in the competitive landscape of STEM education. In this section, we have curated a handpicked list of 10 outstanding STEM competitions tailored for high school participants, arranged in alphabetical order.
1. American Regions Mathematics League (ARML) Contest
Description: A comprehensive mathematics contest consisting of multiple rounds, including team, individual, and relay rounds.
Eligibility: High school enrollment is required.
Date: The main ARML competition took place on May 30–31, 2025, with participation from 128 teams and over 1,800 students representing the U.S., Canada, China, and South Korea. Official dates and full details (venues beyond the Colorado regional, participant structure, etc.) for the 2026 national ARML have not yet been released. However, ARML traditionally takes place during the weekend after Memorial Day, suggesting a likely schedule in late May or early June 2026.
Location: In 2025, ARML Local; NH hosted competition at Saint Anselm College; regional team logistics across various states handled via mathleague.org. In 2026, Colorado team competing at UNR; tryouts in February; Lehigh Valley tryouts in March; national schedule TBD, likely late May/early June.
Prize: Top teams are awarded various prizes.
Learn more: ARML Contest
2. Congressional App Challenge
Description: A public challenge where high school students ideate, code, and build their own apps.
Eligibility: High school enrollment is required.
Date: The competition will launch on May 1st and the deadline is October 30th, 2025.
Location: Online.
Prizes:
- Display of their winning app in the U.S. Capitol Building and on House.gov.
- Invitation to the #HouseOfCode national reception.
- Waived copyright registration fees through the ARTS Act.
- Additional prizes may vary by district or sponsors.
Learn more: Congressional App Challenge
3. FIRST Robotics Competition
Description: An intense robotics competition where high school students collaborate to solve a common problem with limited resources.
Eligibility: Grades 9-12. Teams of 10 or more students.
Date: The season culminated in the FIRST Championship, held at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston from April 16–19, 2025. The FIRST Championship event will remain at Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center for 2026. Dates are set from April 29 to May 2, 2026.
Location: Regional/state tournaments across the US and the world.
Prize: Access to over $50 million in possible scholarships.
Learn more: FIRST Robotics Competition
4. GAMA Aviation Design Challenge
Description: An annual aviation design challenge where students design, build, and test an aircraft in a virtual fly-off.
Eligibility: High school enrollment is required.
Date: Registration for the 2025 challenge has now closed. The competition limits participation to the first 150 U.S. high schools, who receive the “Fly to Learn” curriculum and X‑Plane 12 software to explore flight dynamics and aircraft design principles. Registration for the 2026 Challenge is scheduled to open in August 2025.
Location: At the registered school.
Prize: All-expenses-paid trip for the winning team, scholarships, and STEM Lab Camp opportunities.
Learn more: GAMA Aviation Design Challenge
5. Intel ISEF
Description: The world’s largest global science competition for high schoolers.
Eligibility: Grades 9-12.
Date: The 75th Regeneron ISEF was hosted in Columbus, Ohio, at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. The event took place from May 10 to May 16, 2025. The 2026 Regeneron ISEF will be held May 9–15, 2026, at the Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizona.
Location: Greater Columbus Convention Center (Columbus, Ohio) in 2025. Phoenix Convention Center (Phoenix, Arizona) in 2026.
Prize: Individual and team prizes totaling thousands of dollars.
Learn more: Intel ISEF
6. Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
Description: A STEM competition where students present their original scientific research to judges and peers.
Eligibility: Grades 9-12.
Date: The 63rd National JSHS took place in Chantilly, Virginia, from April 22–26, 2025, hosting 245 student finalists who presented original STEM research. National 2026 details (dates and location) have not yet been released publicly.
Location: Regional competitions held nationwide.
Prize: Scholarships awarded at regional and national levels.
Learn more: Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
7. M3 Challenge
Description: A unique applied math-modeling competition focusing on real-world issues.
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors in the U.S., England, and Wales.
Date: Registration opened in November 2024 and closed on February 21, 2025, at 5 p.m. ET. Registration for the 2026 Challenge will open in November 2025.
Location: Online.
Prize: Over $100,000 in scholarship prizes.
Learn more: M3 Challenge
8. Microsoft Imagine Cup
Description: A global software and game design competition fostering teamwork and addressing real-world problems.
Eligibility: Ages 16 and above.
Date: World Championship: Took place on May 19, 2025, during Microsoft Build—live or virtual, where finalists pitched to judges. Registration for the 2026 Imagine Cup is now open, according to Microsoft announcements.
Location: Online.
Prize: $100,000 USD + mentorship session with Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
Learn more: Microsoft Imagine Cup
9. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)
Description: The nation’s oldest and most prestigious science research and mathematics competition.
Eligibility: High school seniors.
Date: Application Opens: June 1, 2025.
Location: Finalists gather in Washington, D.C. for presentations and final judging.
Prize: In total, over $1.8 million in awards were distributed among finalists.
Learn more: Regeneron STS
10. THINK Challenges
Description: A competition for high school students engaging in an original research project.
Eligibility: High school students.
Date: The 2024–25 cycle has concluded. The program page confirms: Stay tuned for our 2025-26 program!
Location: The application is online.
Prize: Mentorship, funding, and the opportunity to visit MIT’s campus.
Learn more: THINK Challenges
STEM Competitions (Middle School)
Are you ready to unleash the potential of your young aspiring scientists and engineers? Middle school is the perfect time to dive into the exciting world of STEM competitions specifically for young minds.
These competitions offer a unique platform for middle schoolers to showcase their talents, ignite their curiosity, and explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. We have curated a list of nine extraordinary STEM competitions in alphabetical order that will challenge and inspire your child to reach new heights of innovation and problem-solving. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey of discovery and competition.
1. Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge (JIC)
Description: Currently in its inaugural year, the Thermo Fisher JIC (previously the Broadcom MASTERS from 2010-2022, the Society’s Middle School Program (2008), and the Discovery Channel Young Scientists Challenge (1999-2007), is a premier STEM competition for middle school students.
Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8 must compete at a Society-affiliated science fair to earn a nomination.
Date: The 2024–2025 entry window requires that the affiliated fair takes place between November 1, 2024, and June 1, 2025. Detailed information for the 2026 cycle isn’t currently published. Typically, timelines follow a similar pattern—application likely opens in Feb 2026, closes mid-June, and with Finals Week in October 2026. However, until the Society for Science officially releases those dates, we can’t confirm them accurately.
Location: Online, but finalists meet in Washington DC for Finals Week.
Prize: Prizes include the $25,000 Thermo Fisher Scientific ASCEND Award, scientific excursions, and cash awards to finalists’ schools and instructors.
Learn more: Junior Innovators Challenge
2. America’s Top Young Scientist
Description: Showcase your unique problem-solving skills in a 1-2 minute video competition. Finalists compete in the National Finals.
Eligibility: Open to grades 5–8 students in the United States.
Date: Final Event (Finals): October 13–14, 2025 at the 3M Innovation Center in St. Paul, Minnesota. 2026 timeline to be determined.
Location: Online registration available
Prize: $25,000 and the title “America’s Top Young Scientist”.
Learn more: Young Scientist Lab
3. eCyberMission
Description: Engage in a STEM competition focused on proposing solutions to real community issues.
Eligibility: Teams of grades 6–9 students with an adult team advisor.
Date: Registration opens on August 13, 2025 and closes on February 25, 2026.
Location: Online.
Prize: State winners receive $500 US Series EE Savings Bonds per student. Regional winners receive additional $500 Bonds and a paid trip to the finals. National winners receive an additional $3,000 in Bonds.
Learn more: eCyber Mission
4. Future City
Description: Research, design, and build cities that tackle citywide sustainability issues.
Eligibility: Open to grades 6-8 students with an educator or mentor as a coach.
Date: Registration opens in May 2025. National Finals on February 14-18, 2026.
Location: National Finals in Washington, D.C.
Prize: The grand prize includes a trip to space camp and a $7,500 cash award.
Learn more: Future City
5. Junior Solar Sprint
Description: Design, build, and race solar-powered cars using engineering skills and scientific principles.
Eligibility: Open to grades 5–8 students.
Date: Registration for 2025 closed.
Location: EnergyWhiz event at Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC)
Prize: Check the website for more details.
Learn more: Junior Solar Sprint (JSS)
6. MathCounts
Description: Compete in live, in-person mathematics contests against peers at regional, state, and national levels.
Eligibility: Open to all grades 6-8 students; registration through school coaches.
Date: Registration opens: August 15, 2025 for both Competition Series and National Math Club. Deadline is December 15, 2025.
Location: Over 500 regional competitions nationwide.
Prize: Varies each year.
Learn more: Math Counts
7. National Science Bee
Description: Engage in a science-themed, buzzer-based academic quiz competition.
Eligibility: Students in eighth grade and younger.
Date: National Championships: Held over Memorial Day 2025 weekend in Orlando (aligning with the National Academic Bee and others). 2026 schedule to be determined.
Location: Orlando
Prize: Past awards have included $1,500 worth of total prizes.
Learn more: National Science Bee
8. Perennial Math Tournaments
Description: Participate in online, virtual, or in-person math tournaments with varying rules.
Eligibility: Open to grades 3–8 students.
Date: Onsite regionals scheduled in Jan-Apr 2026 in various cities (e.g. Chattanooga, Memphis, Nashville). National championships date to be determined.
Location: Online or on-site.
Prize: Championship trophy.
Learn more: Perennial Math
9. Project CS Girls
Description: Close the gender gap in STEM by building something using computer science and technology to solve a social problem.
Eligibility: Middle school girls.
Date: Details for 2025–2026 are awaiting update.
Location: To be determined.
Prize: Three grand prize winners receive national recognition, an all-expenses-paid trip to the National Gala, certificates, plaques, electronics, gadgets, and other various prizes.
Learn more: Project CS Girls
10. You Be the Chemist
Description: Explore chemistry concepts and their real-world applications in an interactive academic contest.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 5–8.
Date: Registration opens on October 1, 2025 and closes on December 31, 2025. National Challenge Finals scheduled on June 2-3, 2026.
Location: Over 40 states participate, with both in-person and virtual events. The 2025 National Challenge will be held in Houston, Texas.
Prize: Check the website for more details.
Learn more: You Be the Chemist
STEM Competitions (Various Ages)
Are your kids ready to unleash their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)? Look no further! We have curated an exceptional selection of STEM competitions that cater to various age groups, offering exciting opportunities for individuals of all ages to showcase their skills, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Whether you’re a budding scientist, a tech enthusiast, or an engineering prodigy, these competitions provide a platform for you to immerse yourself in the world of STEM and make your mark on the future.
1. American Mathematics Competitions (AMC)
Description: Engage in a series of mathematics tournaments and competitions designed to enhance analytical thinking and problem-solving skills among middle and high school students. Explore classroom resources and embrace friendly competition.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 8–12.
Date: Registration opens on September 15, 2025.
Location: Competitions take place nationwide and online.
Prize: Visit the website for more information.
Learn more: American Mathematics Competitions
2. ArcGIS Online Competition for US High School & Middle School Students
Description: Unleash your creativity by designing and executing a research project relevant to your home state, then present it through an ArcGIS StoryMap. Each state selects the top five submissions, with one chosen from middle and high school to compete nationally.
Eligibility: Open to high school (grades 9-12) and middle school (grades 4-8) students across the United States.
Date: Arizona contest closed; Delaware competition deadline in March 2026.
Location: The competition takes place online.
Prize: Participating states can award up to $1000 prizes to the top five high school and middle school projects. National prizes are announced annually.
Learn more: ArcGIS
3. Bebras Computing Challenge
Description: Embark on the Bebras Computing Challenge, a thrilling online competition featuring various topics related to informatics and computational thinking. Students have 45 minutes to tackle 15 problems, putting their skills to the test.
Eligibility: Open to students ages 6-18.
Date: Registration dates depend on region. Please refer to their website for additional details.
Location: Take part in the challenge online at your own school.
Prize: No specific prizes are mentioned on the website.
Learn more: Bebras Computing Challenge
4. BEST Robotics Competition
Description: Immerse yourself in the exciting world of robotics through the BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science & Technology) Robotics Competition. This hands-on competition empowers middle and high school students to apply math concepts, physics principles, and problem-solving skills to real-world science and engineering challenges.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students.
Date: The competition occurs annually in the fall, typically over six weeks—though exact 2025/2026 registration dates were not publicly listed.
Location: Competitions take place at various locations.
Prize: Prizes vary at regional, state, and national levels. Visit the website for more details.
Learn more: BEST Robotics Challenge
5. CodeChef
Description: CodeChef provides coding competitions and contests tailored for beginners to explore the world of competitive coding. Enhance your skills with practice problems and monthly contests that foster confidence and proficiency in coding.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades K-12.
Date: No fixed dates are publicly available for 2025/2026 at this time.
Location: Competitions are conducted online.
Prize: No specific prizes are mentioned on the website.
Learn more: CodeChef
6. Collegiate Wind Competition
Description: Engage in a year-long journey where teams of undergraduate students conceptualize, construct, and evaluate a prototype wind turbine, along with developing a site plan and cost-of-energy analysis for a wind farm.
Eligibility: Open to interdisciplinary teams of undergraduate students.
Date: Final Event for 2025 held on May 19-22, 2025. No details yet for 2026.
Location: Hosted at CLEANPOWER 2025, Phoenix, Arizona.
Prize: Cash prizes await teams that progress through the three competition phases. The Grand Prize Awards grant winning teams a share of up to $30,000 from the cash prize pool.
Learn more: Collegiate Wind Competition
7. The Conrad Challenge
Description: The Conrad Challenge is a purpose-driven innovation competition that aims to cultivate the next generation of entrepreneurs. It unfolds in four stages: Activation, Lean Canvas, Innovation, and Power Pitch.
Eligibility: Students between 13 and 18 are eligible to participate.
Date: The 2025 Innovation Summit ran from April 22 to 25, 2025 at Space Center Houston, featuring finalist pitches, EXPO showcases, NASA tours, and the awards ceremony. For 2025, the Activation Stage kicks off the competition on August 28, 2025, launching team formation, idea development, and Lean Canvas work. It wraps up on October 30, 2025.
Location: The culminating Innovation Summit, where finalist teams pitch in person at Space Center Houston, is scheduled for April 22–25, 2026, featuring workshops, EXPO events, and awards ceremonies.
Prize: The highest-scoring team in each category earns the prestigious title of Pete Conrad Scholar, unlocking scholarships, pro-bono legal and consulting services, and a Dell Chromebook.
Learn more: Conrad Challenge
8. The Department of Energy (DOE) National Science Bowl
Description: The DOE National Science Bowl is among the largest academic competitions in the nation, assessing students’ knowledge across various science and math disciplines. Teams engage in fast-paced question-and-answer sessions, with regional qualifiers progressing to the National Science Bowl.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students. Teams should include one alternative student and one coach.
Date: The National Finals for 2025 was held in Washington, D.C. on April 24-28, 2025. The Regional Competition Registration for 2026 opens on October 6, 2025.
Location: All 50 states participate
Prize: Regional prizes vary. For more information, kindly refer to the official website.
Learn more: DOE National Science Bowl
9. Destination Imagination STEM Team Challenges
Description: Collaborative teams tackle open-ended STEAM challenges designed to foster the creative process. A range of team programs is available, including a captivating four-day camp exploring the convergence of science, art, and technology.
Eligibility: Participation is open to individuals from kindergarten through university.
Date: Dates vary by region. Team Numbers for the 2025-26 season can be purchased starting July 15, 2025.
Location: Operating in 45 states and 30 countries. The 2026 Global Finals are set to be held in Kansas City, MO.
Prize: Further information is available on their website.
Learn more: Destination Imagination
10. Exploravision
Description: Encouraging imagination and forward-thinking, Exploravision prompts participants to engage in real-world problem-solving rooted in STEM.
Eligibility: Teams of 2–4 students in grades K–12 from U.S. or Canadian public, private, or home schools.
Date: Registration opens in October 2025. Awards ceremony will be in June 2026 in Washington, D.C.
Prize: Four winning teams receive U.S. EE Savings Bonds worth $10,000 at maturity. Other prizes for second place, finalists, and honorable mentions are also awarded.
Learn more: Exploravision
11. F1 In Schools
Description: F1 In Schools challenges student teams to design, manufacture, and race the “car of the future” inspired by Formula 1. The competition progresses through regional, state, national, and world levels.
Eligibility: Students aged 9-19 in teams of 3–6 members.
Date: Open now for the 2025/26 season. World Finals scheduled on September 27 – October 2, 2025.
Location: Nationwide participation. The 2025 World Finals will be hosted in Singapore.
Prize: Access to recruiters from prestigious universities and other prizes, which may vary. Visit the website for further details.
Learn more: F1 in Schools
12. FIRST LEGO League
Description: FIRST LEGO League offers students compelling and hands-on experiences, challenging them to communicate and design art in unique and original ways.
Eligibility: Students ages 4-16 (with three age divisions: 4-6, 6-10, and 9-16).
Date: Registration opened on May 6, 2025. Finals scheduled on April 18-19, 2026.
Location: Finals will be held in Leipzig, Germany.
Prize: Details are available on the website.
Learn more: FIRST LEGO League
13. FIRST Tech Challenge
Description: FIRST Tech Challenge is a robotics competition where teams of students develop an engineering mindset. Participants are responsible for designing, constructing, and programming robots within a 10-week period, culminating in head-to-head alliance competitions. Winners of regional/state tournaments advance to the FIRST National Championship.
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 7–12.
Date: Registration opened on May 14 2025. National championship is scheduled in April 2026.
Location: Regional and state competitions are held across the United States.
Prize: Participants gain access to over $80 million in available scholarships.
Learn more: FIRST Tech Challenge
14. Fluor Challenge
Description: The Fluor Challenge is a hands-on engineering contest encouraging students to accomplish exciting tasks using limited resources, fostering creativity and innovation.
Eligibility: K–12 students as individuals or teams of up to four students.
Date: Registration opens in January 2026 and results will be announced in April 2026.
Location: Online.
Prize: Ten teams are randomly selected to receive $1,000 prizes for their schools!
Learn more: Fluor Challenge
15. Future Engineers Challenges
Description: Future Engineers Challenges offers innovation challenges for K–12 students. Each challenge provides rules, lessons, and resources to introduce the task, teach STEM topics, brainstorm designs, and prepare students for submission.
Eligibility: Open to students in Grades K–12.
Date: Registration opens in September 2025. Results will be announced in February 2026.
Location: Online.
Prize: Prizes vary based on the specific challenge.
Learn more: Future Engineers
16. Genes in Space
Description: Genes in Space is a contest challenging students in grades 7–12 to design DNA experiments for space. The winning experiment is conducted aboard the International Space Station.
Eligibility: U.S. students enrolled in grades 7-12.
Date: The finalist presentations were held at AIAA’s ASCEND conference in Las Vegas (July 22–24), replacing the previous venue, ISSRDC. The 2026 competition is scheduled to open in January 2026.
Location: The specific location for finalist presentations in 2026 has not been announced as of now.
Prize: Finalists, Honorable Mentions, Junior Scientist Awardees, and Constellation Awardees receive a P51 Florenscence Biotechnology kit valued at $800 for their schools.
Learn more: Genes in Space
17. International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC)
Description: The International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC) is an exciting event centered around Scratch coding. Children from around the globe can participate by submitting their own Scratch projects. The IKCC organizes competitions throughout the year, each focusing on different topics.
Eligibility: Open to students aged 7 to 14 years old.
Date: At present, there’s no public information or scheduling announcements for IKCC competitions in 2026. For updates, it’s best to monitor their official website (ikcc.info) or sign up for their announcements, especially as the Calgary competition dates typically align year-to-year.
Location: The competition occurs online, allowing participants to join from anywhere.
Prize: Winners receive a Special Award Certificate for their exceptional coding skills.
Learn more: International Kids Coding Competition (IKCC)
18. International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI)
Description: The International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) is an annual nationwide competition in India organized by IARCS. This prestigious event aims to identify school students with exceptional talent in algorithms and computer programming.
Eligibility: The Indian Computing Olympiad is open to students from all school boards across the country, from grades 1 to 12. There is no minimum age requirement for participation.
Date: 2025 competition held at Sucre, Bolivia on July 27-August 3, 2025. 2026 competition will be held at Tashkent, Uzbekistan on August 9-16, 2026.
Location: Uzbekistan in 2026, Germany in 2027.
Prize: Please refer to the official website for information regarding prizes.
Learn more: IARCS website -IOI
19. LEGO Rebrick Contests
Description: LEGO Rebrick Contests offer a fantastic opportunity for LEGO enthusiasts aged 13 and above to showcase their creativity and building skills. Participants can submit digital photos and videos of their custom LEGO creations to win various exciting prizes.
Eligibility: The contests are open to LEGO fans over 13.
Date: While LEGO Rebrick no longer hosts contests (since its closure in 2018), LEGO Ideas has seamlessly continued the tradition—with fresh contests, creative themes, and exciting opportunities for builders in 2025 and beyond.
Location: Please check the website for additional details.
Prize: Prizes include rare signed LEGO sets, the opportunity to display and use your creation, and even all-expenses-paid trips.
Learn more: LEGO Rebrick Contests
20. 2025 International SeaPerch Challenge
Description: The International SeaPerch Challenge invites students to dive into the fascinating world of underwater robotics by building their own remotely operated vehicles (ROVs). Through this competition, students gain essential engineering, design, and science skills while exploring the depths of underwater robotics.
Eligibility: The program is designed for students in grades 5-12, aged 10-18.
Date: The 2025 Finals took place on May 31-June 1, 2025, and regional competitions occur at various times. As of now, there are no official details available yet for 2026—no dates, themes, or locations have been published yet.
Location: The 2025 Finals were held at the University of Maryland campus.
Prize: Please refer to the competition website for details on prizes.
Learn more: SeaPerch Challenge
21. MATE ROV Competition
Description: The MATE ROV Competition is a globally recognized underwater robotics challenge that engages participants in an exciting exploration of marine technology. This competition encourages learners of all ages, from kindergarten to college, to immerse themselves in underwater robotics.
Eligibility: The competition welcomes participants from kindergarten to college.
Date: 2025 World Championship held on June 19-21, 2025. 2026 World Championship still to be determined.
Location: Memorial University, Newfoundland, Canada confirmed as next host venue for 2026.
Prize: Please refer to the competition’s website for information regarding prizes.
Learn more: MATE ROV Competition
22. Math League
Description: Math League offers a series of competitions designed to challenge teams of elementary, middle, and high school students. These contests expose participants to various new and engaging math problems, culminating in the National Championships held in the spring.
Eligibility: The competitions are open to students in grades 3-12.
Date: International Summer Challenge was held on August 17, 2025. Dates for 2026 still to be determined.
Location: The competitions are held at various locations across the United States.
Prize: Prizes vary based on the competition level and location.
Learn more: Math League
23. National STEM League
Description: The National STEM League offers an engaging team-oriented STEM competition to prepare students for future professional endeavors. This league emphasizes the importance of teamwork and provides students with valuable skills in algebra and physics that can be applied to daily life.
Eligibility: The competition is open to middle and high school students.
Date: The available sources confirm the NSL and its Rover Challenge are active through 2025, but no official details have been announced yet for 2026.
Location: Regional competitions occur throughout the United States, offering various options such as the Online Points Race, Face-to-Face Competitions, and Micro and 1-Day Challenges.
Prize: Check the official website for more details on prizes.
Learn more: National STEM League
24. NCF Envirothon
Description: The NCF Envirothon is an annual competition where high school students in grades 9-12 demonstrate their critical thinking skills by developing innovative solutions to complex environmental and natural resource challenges. This event serves as a platform for students to showcase their understanding of current environmental issues.
Eligibility: The competition is open to high school students in grades 9-12, aged 14-19. Teams consist of five students from the same school or organization, with an adult team advisor required.
Date: The finals for 2026 are scheduled on July 19-25, 2026.
Location: Each year, a different city hosts the NCF Envirothon. In 2026, the event will be held at Mississippi State University in Starkville, Mississippi.
Prize: Visit the competition website for details regarding prizes.
Learn more: NCF Envirothon
25. Odyssey of the Mind
Description: Odyssey of the Mind is an exciting competition where teams of students collaborate under pressure to devise creative solutions to various problems. Students enhance their problem-solving skills through this competition and unleash their natural creativity.
Eligibility: Teams can participate by purchasing a school or community group membership. Each team consists of up to seven students and one adult coach.
Date: Odyssey of the Mind 2025 World Finals took place from May 21-25, 2025. The 2026 World Finals is scheduled on May 27-30, 2026.
Location: The 2025 World Finals was in Michigan State University. The 2026 World Finals will be in Iowa State University.
Prize: Awards are granted to teams based on their performance, with trophies, plaques, ribbons, medals, and special certificates presented to the first, second, and third-place winners at the World Finals.
Learn more: Odyssey of the Mind
26. Purple Comet Math Meet
Description: The Purple Comet Math Meet is an international mathematics competition for middle and high school students. Participants compete by submitting solutions to a list of mathematics problems within ten days, allowing flexibility in choosing a convenient start time. The problems in the competition range in difficulty.
Eligibility: Teams of middle and high school students can participate with the guidance of an adult supervisor.
Date: The next meet is set for April 14 through April 23, 2026.
Location: The competition takes place online, enabling participation from anywhere.
Prize: Visit the competition’s website for further details on prizes.
Learn more: Purple Comet Math Meet
27. Science Olympiad
Description: The Science Olympiad is a prestigious science competition that aims to foster K-12 and teacher engagement in STEM fields. Since its establishment in 1984, Science Olympiad has continually evolved to reflect the dynamic nature of earth science, chemistry, genetics, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering, and technology.
Eligibility: Eligibility criteria vary by state.
Date: The 2026 Science Olympiad National Tournament will be held on May 9-11, 2026.
Location: The 2026 Science Olympiad National Tournament will be hosted at University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Prize: Host universities and sponsors offer a range of awards, trophies, cash scholarships, tuition awards, and prizes. For detailed information, please refer to the website.
Learn more: Science Olympiad
28. Scratch Olympiad
Description: The Scratch Olympiad is a global coding competition designed for children worldwide. Participants can compete individually or in teams by submitting their own Scratch projects.
Eligibility: Open to students aged 7 and above, as well as adults.
Date: The registration deadline for the global competition is on November 2, 2025.
Location: Online
Prize: Participants receive a certificate and an award.
Learn more: Scratch Olympiad
29. Siemens Competition in Math, Science, and Technology
Description: Since 1999, the Siemens Competition has empowered high school students to explore research projects and enhance their understanding of scientific investigation. Participants submit and present their projects in various fields, with evaluations based on scientific importance, creativity, field knowledge, thoroughness, interpretation, literature review, future work, expression, and presentation skills. The Siemens Competition has been instrumental in fostering the growth of aspiring scientists, igniting a passion for discovery and excellence.
Eligibility: Open to high school students.
Date: The Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology was concluded in 2017, and there are no official updates or announcements regarding its revival for 2025 or 2026.
Location: Online
Prize: Check the competition website for an updated list of awards.
Learn more: Siemens Competition
30. Solar Decathlon
Description: Solar Decathlon is an international collegiate competition that equips the next generation of building professionals with the skills to design and construct high-performance, low-carbon buildings powered by renewable energy sources.
Eligibility: Open to collegiate teams.
Date: Final competition held on April 25-27, 2025, hosted at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. No details yet for 2026.
Location: Golden, Colorado in 2025.
Prize: In 2017, cash prizes were introduced, with all participants receiving a minimum of $100,000 upon successfully completing the competition. Additional cash awards were given based on rankings, and the top team received a total of $300,000.
Learn more: Solar Decathlon
31. Team America Rocketry Challenge
Description: Often referred to as the world’s largest student rocket contest, the Team America Rocketry Challenge challenges students to design, build, and launch a rocket carrying a raw egg to a specific altitude and safely return it.
Eligibility: Teams of 3-10 students in grades 7-12.
Date: Registration open in July 2025 and will be closing on December 6, 2025.
Location: The 2026 National Finals will occur at Great Meadow in The Plains, VA on May 16, 2026.
Prize: Winning teams share over $100,000 in cash and scholarships. The first-place team receives $20,000, with an additional $1,000 awarded to their school.
Learn more: Team America Rocketry Challenge
32. U.S.A. Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS)
Description: The U.S.A. Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS) presents participants with a challenging math problem they have an entire month to solve. Mathematicians then grade solutions, and participants receive feedback to enhance their problem-solving and writing skills.
Eligibility: Open to middle and high school students.
Date: While specific dates for the 2025–2026 season (Year 37) aren’t publicly listed yet, the competition typically follows the previous pattern: Round 1 (likely mid-October 2025) and Round 2 (early January 2026).
Location: Online
Prize: Participants are eligible for various prizes throughout the year, including books and software. Top scorers are also invited to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), a critical step for applying to the USA Mathematical Olympiad Team.
Learn more: USAMTS
33. VEX Robotics Competitions
Description: Organized by The Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, VEX Robotics Competitions require teams of students to design and build robots that compete against other teams in game-based engineering challenges. The Guinness Book of World Records recognizes the world championship as the largest robotics competition.
Eligibility: Open to students from elementary to collegiate levels, with a minimum age requirement of 8.
Date: Event posting deadline is on November 1, 2025. The VEX Robotics World Championship will be on April 21-30, 2026.
Location: Scheduled to take place in April 2026 at the America’s Center Convention Complex in St. Louis, Missouri.
Prize: Check the competition website for more detailed information.
Learn more: VEX Robotics Competitions
34. Wonder League Robotics
Description: Wonder League Robotics is a robotics and programming challenge where teams compete in three rounds over a five-month period under the guidance of a coach. Successful teams from the preliminary rounds are invited to the open invitational, where they compete face-to-face with other teams.
Eligibility: Kids aged 6-8 can participate in the Innovator Cup, while youth aged 9-12 can compete in the Pioneer Cup. Each team must have at least one adult coach.
Date: Team registration opens in September 2025. Winners will be announced in May 2026.
Location: Registration is online, and preliminary competition rounds are conducted remotely.
Prize: The grand prize includes a $5,000 STEM grant, national recognition, and a Dash Robot for each team member.
Learn more: Wonder League Robotics
STEM Competitions Provide Invaluable Opportunities for Kids
Participating in science and robotics competitions offers invaluable opportunities for students to explore their passions, develop critical skills, and expand their knowledge in STEM fields. Whether it’s the excitement of designing rockets, coding innovative projects, or solving complex math problems, these competitions inspire young minds to reach new heights.
As a leading provider of coding education, CodaKid is committed to empowering young learners to thrive in these competitions and beyond. With their comprehensive online courses and expert guidance, CodaKid equips students with the coding skills and creativity needed to excel in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Join CodaKid today and unlock your potential to conquer the challenges and succeed in these thrilling competitions.
