15 Prestigious Competitions for High School Students
Participating in academic competitions offers high school students a unique opportunity to gain exposure beyond the classroom. Engaging in these intellectually stimulating events allow students to deepen their knowledge, sharpen their skills, and challenge themselves in ways that traditional coursework may not provide. These competitions cover a wide range of subjects, from science and mathematics to history and the arts, catering to various interests and strengths.
These experiences also provide a platform for students to develop essential skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, which are highly valued in higher education and future careers. Furthermore, excelling in these competitions can lead to prestigious awards, scholarships, and recognition, all of which can bolster college applications and personal statements (SOPs).
For students aiming to pursue research or specialized academic paths, competitions offer the chance to work on advanced projects, often under the mentorship of experts in the field. This early exposure to research methodologies and innovative thinking can be a stepping stone to future academic endeavors and professional success.
In this article, we explore 15 prestigious competitions for high school students.
1. Congressional App Challenge
Subject/Field: Computer Science, Technology
Eligibility: Middle or high school students who are residents of a participating congressional district can participate. Teams may not have more than 4 members.
Dates: Applications open on May 1, 2024 and close on October 24, 2024
Cost & Prizes: No cost to participate. Winning apps are eligible to be displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives' website. Winners are also invited to attend a reception on Capitol Hill and may be awarded additional sponsor prizes.
Location: Virtual
The Congressional App Challenge is a district-wide competition organized by members of the U.S. House of Representatives. It’s perfect for students eager to elevate their coding skills and apply their technical expertise to create impactful applications. Participants are challenged to design and develop their own innovative mobile or web app, navigating the complexities of computer science and problem-solving. The competition encourages addressing real-world problems through technological solutions.
Winners of the challenge gain recognition for their coding abilities and have the opportunity to present their creations to members of Congress and the broader tech community. Prizes often include scholarships, mentorship opportunities, and invitations to various tech events. The honor of winning the Congressional App Challenge is significant, as it demonstrates a student's capability to use technology for positive change. Additionally, presenting their apps to lawmakers and industry experts enhances their profile within the tech and innovation sectors. Participation in this challenge not only highlights a student's coding proficiency but also showcases their commitment to tackling real-world issues within the dynamic field of technology and app development.
Check out this guide on how to win the Congressional App Challenge!
Subject/Field: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Math, Environmental Sciences
Eligibility: All high school students can participate.
Dates: The dates for the regional rounds vary, and you must register no later than 3 weeks prior to the event. The 2024 finals will be held April 25 to 29, 2024
Cost & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Cash prizes and scholarships are offered.
Location: Regional rounds are held in different cities every year. Science Bowl Finals are held in Washington, DC.
Running since 1991, the National Science Bowl (NSB) is a prestigious and highly competitive event that aims to motivate students to excel in math and science. Each year, the competition attracts over 1,000 students, challenging them on their knowledge across various subjects, including physics, energy, Earth science, chemistry, biology, and math.
To participate, students must first compete in regional rounds, which you can find here. Teams of 4-5 students compete locally, and only the regional winners are invited to the Science Bowl Finals held in Washington, D.C. This final stage brings together the brightest young minds to test their scientific prowess on a national platform. NSB provides a comprehensive resource pool to aid preparation, including the competition rules, tips for success, and various study materials to help teams excel.
For those with a keen interest in physics specifically, the Physics Bowl is another competitive option that focuses more closely on physics-related challenges. Participation in the National Science Bowl not only showcases your academic skills but also enhances your college application by demonstrating your commitment to science and teamwork.
Here’s some insight and tips to help you ace the bowl! Also check out the Physics Bowl if you’d rather participate in a more physics-focused challenge.
3. National Economics Challenge
Subject/Field: Economics
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to participate (in teams of 3-4 members):
The David Ricardo Division is for first-time competitors who have taken no more than one economics course
The Adam Smith Division is for AP, international baccalaureate, and honors students (as well as returning competitors)
Teams must be accompanied by a coach who is an associate of the team school, organization or program.
Dates: The national semi-finals will be held April 22-26, 2024. The national finals will be held June 1-3, 2024. Dates for state-level events differ.
Cost & Prizes: No cost to participate. Prizes are 1st place $1,000 | 2nd place $500 | 3rd place $250 | 4th place $125
Location: The national finals will be held in New York.
The National Economics Challenge (NEC) is a prestigious competition that rigorously tests high school students' understanding of economics. Teams of students compete in a series of exams that cover key areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, international economics, and current economic events. This comprehensive examination evaluates students' grasp of economic principles and their ability to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios.
Winners of the NEC receive cash prizes and significant recognition for their economic knowledge and analytical skills. Achieving a high placement in the NEC demonstrates a strong understanding of economic theories, policy analysis capabilities, and critical thinking in economic contexts. This accomplishment is highly regarded by college admissions officers, as it indicates a student's proficiency in economics, their analytical prowess, and a genuine interest in tackling complex economic issues. The National Economics Challenge is a valuable opportunity for high school students to deepen their economic knowledge, gain recognition, and enhance their college applications.
For a deeper dive into the NEC, check out this article. Here’s a few more economics competitions, if you’re interested!
4. International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)
Subject/Field: Mathematics
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to participate!
Dates: July 10 to 22, 2024
Costs & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded, along with a few honorable mentions.
Location: University of Bath, United Kingdom
Note: Olympiads are typically regional-level exams, and once you score well on those, you qualify for the national Olympiad (United States of America Mathematical Olympiad - USAMO). Based on your performance at the national level, you can qualify for the International Olympiad.
The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) stands as a pinnacle for high school students with exceptional mathematical skills. During this competition, participants grapple with six intricate problems, each designed to test their problem-solving abilities across algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. The competition's rigor is evident in the diversity and complexity of the challenges presented.
Distinctions are marked with prestigious medals – gold, silver, and bronze – awarded to the top performers. Additionally, honorable mentions are given to recognize students’ efforts. Beyond the accolades, achievements in the IMO can be a significant highlight on a student's college application. Top-performing students are often recognized by the IMO as having demonstrated excellence in a highly competitive field.
If you’re looking for other competitive experiences exclusively in the field of mathematics, the AMC 10 and AMC 12 are opportunities you must consider.
5. International Physics Olympiad (IPhO)
Subject/Field: Physics
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to participate!
Dates: February 8, 2024
Costs & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Medals and honorable mentions are awarded.
Location: Iran (exact location to be announced)
Note: Olympiads are typically regional-level exams, and once you score well on those, you qualify for the national Olympiad (USA Physics Olympiad - USAPhO). Based on your performance at the national level, you can qualify for the international Olympiad.
The International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) is a prestigious global competition for high school students who excel in physics. Participants are immersed in a rigorous blend of experimental and theoretical challenges that cover classical mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics. This competition assesses students' deep understanding of physics principles and their ability to apply both practical and theoretical problem-solving skills.
Top performers in the IPhO are awarded medals – gold, silver, and bronze – while additional recognitions are given for other outstanding achievements. Participating in this competition demonstrates a profound appreciation for the intricacies of physics and the ability to tackle complex problems with a scientific approach. Success in the IPhO not only highlights a student's academic prowess but also enhances their college applications, showcasing their dedication and expertise in a highly respected field of study.
6. International Biology Olympiad (IBO)
Subject/Field: Biology
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to participate!
Dates: July 7 to 14, 2024
Costs & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Medals and honorable mentions are awarded.
Location: Astana, Kazakhstan
Note: Olympiads are typically regional-level exams, and once you score well on those, you qualify for the national Olympiad (USA Biolympiad - USABO). Based on your performance at the national level, you can qualify for the international Olympiad.
The International Biology Olympiad (IBO) is a prestigious competition designed for high school students who excel in biology. Participants face a series of challenging exams that cover a wide range of topics, including molecular biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology. This competition ensures that students demonstrate not only a broad understanding of biological concepts but also their ability to navigate specialized areas within the field.
Excelling in the IBO is a testament to a student's profound understanding of biological intricacies, adept laboratory skills, and a genuine passion for scientific inquiry. Achievements in this competition highlight a student's academic rigor and capability in handling complex biological problems. Success in the IBO significantly enhances a student's profile, particularly when applying to competitive university programs. It signals to admissions officers a student's dedication, intellectual curiosity, and ability to perform at an international level.
7. Computer Science Olympiad (USACO)
Subject/Field: Computer Science, Programming
Eligibility: All high school students can participate.
Dates: March 15 to 18, 2024
Costs & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Students receive medals of recognition, and those who qualify at the national level will represent the U.S. at the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI), to be held in Egypt in September 2024.
Location: The US open round will be held across the country.
The United States of America Computing Olympiad (USACO) is a premier competition designed to challenge and inspire high school students interested in the dynamic field of computer science and programming. Participants tackle a series of algorithmic problems in successive rounds, progressing through the divisions of bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. These divisions represent escalating levels of difficulty, where students must demonstrate their growing proficiency and creativity in solving complex computational problems.
Throughout the competition, participants' programming skills are rigorously evaluated, highlighting their ability to devise efficient and innovative solutions. The top performers in USACO gain national recognition for their achievements and are invited to specialized training camps. These camps provide intensive training and preparation for some of the best students to represent the United States at the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) – a prestigious global competition.
Achieving high placement in USACO is a significant accomplishment. It signifies not only technical proficiency but also the capacity for innovative thinking and problem-solving – attributes highly valued in technology-driven industries. USACO serves as a testament to a student's dedication, intellectual curiosity, and potential to excel in the field of computer science.
Check out these great resources to study for USACO!
Subject/Field: Environmental Studies
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to participate!
Dates: The finals will be held June 10 to 14, 2024.
Costs & Prizes: There is a $50 application fee. Different awards across the various competition categories.
Location: There is some travel involved!
The Genius Olympiad is an esteemed international high school competition emphasizing environmental issues, scientific innovation, and creative projects. Established in 2010, the Olympiad seeks to foster global collaboration and inspire students to address pressing environmental challenges creatively and scientifically. Participants from around the world submit projects in various categories, including science, art, writing, and design, showcasing innovative solutions and creative expressions related to environmental awareness and sustainable development.
The competition's judging criteria are comprehensive, evaluating the creativity, scientific rigor, environmental impact, and practical applicability of the projects. Winners are honored for their exceptional contributions to environmental sustainability and awareness, receiving bronze, silver, and gold medals.
Participating in the Genius Olympiad offers students a unique platform to showcase their talents, gain international recognition, and contribute meaningfully to global environmental issues. This experience not only enhances their college applications but also empowers them to become future leaders and innovators in environmental science and sustainability.
Here’s how you can win the Genius Olympiad!
9. International History Olympiad
Subject/Field: History
Eligibility: All high school students are eligible to participate!
Dates: July 23 to 31, 2024
Costs & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Medals and honorable mentions are awarded.
Location: Rome, Italy
The International History Olympiad is a distinguished academic competition that evaluates participants' knowledge and comprehension of historical events, figures, and themes. Participants tackle written exams that cover a broad spectrum of historical topics, requiring them to demonstrate detailed knowledge of specific events, time periods, and notable historical figures. The buzzer rounds test participants' quick thinking and reflexes as they compete head-to-head to answer questions in real-time. Additionally, the competition often includes simulation games, historical reenactments, and research-based projects, allowing participants to apply their historical knowledge in engaging and practical ways.
Success in the History Olympiad often involves excelling in both individual and team events, with participants accumulating points across various rounds. The scoring system is designed to reward not only a deep understanding of historical facts but also critical thinking and analytical skills. Top-performing individuals and teams are recognized for their achievements, receiving awards at regional, national, and international levels. This prestigious event offers an excellent opportunity for students to deepen their historical knowledge, develop critical skills, and gain recognition for their academic prowess, all of which can significantly enhance their academic profiles and future educational opportunities.
If you’re keen on pursuing history competitions further, check out National History Day (NHD)! Students interested in the field of linguistics can consider the International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL).
10. National Speech and Debate Tournament
Subject/Field: Debate
Eligibility: All high school students can participate.
Dates: June 16 to 21, 2024
Costs & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Awards include national level recognition, in a points-based system, across different categories.
Location: Varies year on year. In 2024, it will be held in Des Moines Area, Iowa.
The National Speech and Debate Tournament is a premier platform for students to showcase their oratory and communication skills. Participants engage in an intensive process of preparation and competition, refining their skills across various events such as debate, interpretation, and public speaking. Whether advocating for policy changes, delivering compelling speeches, or presenting dramatic interpretations, students demonstrate mastery in rhetoric and expression.
The tournament features a diverse range of events, including policy debate, Lincoln-Douglas debate, and individual events like extemporaneous speaking and original oratory. Competing students are recognized for their excellence with highly coveted awards, such as trophies and accolades, which affirm their skills and dedication.
Participating in the National Speech and Debate Tournament provides a platform to articulate and defend perspectives on critical issues, enhancing communication skills, critical thinking, and research abilities. This experience signals to admissions officers a well-rounded individual capable of effective communication, a skill that is highly valued in both academic and professional settings.
Students keen on exploring debate challenges should look through this list of competitions!
11. International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
Subject/Field: Engineering, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science
Eligibility: All high-school students with a strong passion for research in science, math, and engineering are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Varies from state to state.
Dates: Local and regional events take place throughout the year but usually conclude by April. The ISEF Fair typically takes place in May.
Cost & Prizes: On-site registration of $25 for each participant. Special Awards such as tuition scholarships, summer internships, and scientific trips, as well as cash prizes of up to $75,000 are awarded to winners.
Location: Hosted in different cities every year. ISEF 2024 will be in Los Angeles, CA.
The International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is an exceptional platform for high school students to test their skills and stand out if they plan to pursue STEM research in the future. Participants from around the globe engage in an intensive process of scientific inquiry, often tackling complex and cutting-edge research projects across various scientific disciplines.
ISEF allows you to present your findings and exchange ideas and insights with peers, educators, and professionals from the scientific community. The projects span a wide array of fields, including biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and environmental science. The awards at ISEF are highly coveted and symbolize not only academic excellence but also innovation and creativity. Winners receive recognition for their research, often leading to scholarships, internships, and opportunities for further exploration of their scientific interests. The prestige associated with ISEF is valuable, as it provides a unique opportunity for students to showcase their talents on an international stage, gaining visibility among leading scientists, educators, and industry professionals.
Tip: We’ve covered everything you need to know about ISEF in this guide!
12. ExploraVision
Subject/Field: STEM Fields
Eligibility: All high school students studying in the US and Canada can participate.
Dates: Applications are typically due in January. Regional winners are typically announced by April and national winners by May. The ExploraVision Awards Weekend is typically held in June.
Cost & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Winners will receive:
Up to $240,000 in savings bonds ($10,000 savings bond for each first-place team member and $5,000 savings bond for each second-place team member)
An expense-paid trip to Washington, DC, in June for the ExploraVision Awards Weekend (for the the student and one parent/guardian)
A technology/science-related gift for each regional winning student
Location: Virtual
The ExploraVision challenge, conducted by Toshiba and the National Science Teaching Association (NSTA), is a prestigious competition that encourages high school students to engage in real-world problem-solving through STEM. This highly competitive challenge has attracted entries from over 450,000 students across the United States since its inception in 1992. Each year, thousands of teams participate, but only four teams per grade category are awarded first place.
In teams of 2-4 students, participants must select a current technology, research its potential improvements, and envision its future application and impact over the next ten years. Students are encouraged to draw from various STEM fields, including physics, technology, and artificial intelligence, to present their innovative ideas. The projects must outline the development steps, benefits, potential drawbacks, and anticipated challenges of the proposed technology.
For inspiration, you can explore past projects that have showcased a wide range of creative and forward-thinking solutions. The competition not only highlights students' research and presentation skills but also fosters teamwork and critical thinking.
To learn more about the ExploraVision challenge and explore past entries, check out this detailed dive into the competition.
Subject/Field: Business, Entrepreneurship
Eligibility: All high school students can participate.
Dates: Varies
Costs & Prizes: Varies
Location: Held at multiple locations across the country, and virtually as well.
DECA, previously known as Distributive Education Clubs of America, is a not-for-profit career and technical student organization that plays a significant role in preparing emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. With a massive membership of over 200,000 students and recognition by the Department of Education, DECA is endorsed by all 50 states, highlighting its prestige and impact on student development.
DECA organizes competitive events across four distinct career clusters: business management and administration, finance, hospitality and tourism, and marketing. Participants engage in a variety of events, including business simulations, role plays, case studies, and presentations. These competitions are held at district, state, and national levels, providing multiple opportunities for students to showcase their skills.
Excelling at a DECA competition goes beyond theoretical understanding; it demonstrates a student's practical application of business concepts, strategic thinking, and effective communication skills. Achievements in DECA are powerful indicators of a student's readiness for real-world business scenarios, providing a glimpse into their potential in fields like marketing and entrepreneurship. College admissions officers often view DECA accomplishments favorably, recognizing them as evidence of a student's leadership abilities and business acumen.
For a comprehensive guide on what DECA is and how to prepare for its competitions, check out this article!
14. Davidson Fellows
Subject/Field: Spans across several fields
Eligibility: All high school students under the age of 18, who reside in the US can apply.
Dates: Submit your applications by February 14, 2024. Results will be announced by July 2024.
Cost & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Cash prizes of up to $50,000 and the title of a 'Davidson Fellow'.
Location: Virtual.
The Davidson Institute hosts its prestigious Fellows Program annually, aimed at recognizing and supporting high-achieving students in STEM. This program seeks out the brightest young minds, offering substantial prizes of up to $50,000 to winning teams. These funds can be used to further research or assist in academic pursuits. To apply, students must submit original work that meets one or more of the following criteria:
An exceptionally creative application of existing knowledge
A new idea with significant impact
An innovative solution with broad implications
An important advancement that can be replicated and built upon
An interdisciplinary discovery
A prodigious performance
Another demonstration of extraordinary accomplishment
Applicants must form teams of no more than two students, and their submissions should demonstrate a level of depth, understanding, and quality of presentation akin to that of college graduate-level work. The program invites applications across various subjects, with specific guidelines available for science submissions.
Becoming a Davidson Fellow is a distinguished honor, setting students apart from their peers by highlighting their exceptional talent and dedication. The title carries significant prestige and can greatly enhance a student’s academic and professional trajectory.
Check out this article detailing why you should consider applying for this competition.
Subject/Field: STEM Fields
Eligibility: High school students living in the US are eligible to apply.
Dates: Registrations typically close in January. Semifinalists are announced by January-end, and finalists by the beginning of February. Finalists are expected to complete their projects by June.
Cost & Prizes: There is no cost to participate. Finalists are awarded $1,000 to execute their projects. Additionally, when possible, finalists will be invited to a four-day all-expenses paid trip to MIT's campus, where they tour labs, present their research to MIT students and faculty, and interact with members of the THINK team.
Location: Virtual
Conducted by a group of undergraduates at MIT, the THINK Scholars Program is designed to support high school students who have extensively researched a potential STEM project and need guidance to move forward. Unlike many research competitions, THINK does not require participants to have completed their projects before applying. Instead, it focuses on providing support in the early stages of project development.
The application process involves a semifinal round where applicants are interviewed. Finalists are then announced, and selected projects receive $1,000 in funding and mentorship from MIT students. Additionally, finalists are invited to MIT's campus for a fully paid trip to meet with professors in their field of research, tour state-of-the-art labs, and attend MIT's xFair.
This program is a fantastic opportunity for budding researchers to gain valuable insights, receive expert guidance, and connect with the MIT community, which can significantly enhance their project and future academic endeavors.
Here’s our guide to the program!
If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI!
Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also work 1-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn data science and AI with us. You can apply here!
Image Source - Congressional App Challenge Logo