9 International Science Competitions for High School Students

Imagine this: you're a high school student with a knack for science, and you dream of making groundbreaking discoveries. But how?

Enter - international science competitions, the Olympics of the brainy, providing you with a platform to showcase your genius on a global stage.

These contests are more than just opportunities to win shiny medals and add impressive lines to your resume. They’re gateways to learning, networking, and personal growth.

Whether you’re looking to test the limits of your knowledge, make lifelong friends, or simply have fun doing what you love, there's an international competition out there waiting for you. 

Top International Science Competitions for High School Students

Participating in international science competitions is a fantastic way to challenge yourself and gain recognition in the field you love the most.  

But which one should you choose? Here’s the ultimate guide:

1. NCF-Enviothon

The NCF-Envirothon is the ultimate challenge for young scientists passionate about the environment. This research competition is designed to engage high schoolers in hands-on learning across topics like forestry, soil science, and wildlife conservation.

High schoolers from across the country can participate, whether individually or as part of a team. The competition encourages students to develop a research project that addresses real-world environmental issues, helping them build crucial skills for future careers.

Taking part in the NCF-Envirothon can lead to amazing opportunities, including scholarships, internships, and the chance to collaborate with environmental professionals. Imagine presenting your research project to experts in the field and gaining recognition for your hard work.

2. Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)

The Intel ISEF is one of the most sought-after science competitions in the world. 

Now sponsored by biotech giant Regeneron, which also hosts the Regeneron Science Talent Search (a national science bowl), the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a science fair on the global stage. 

To participate, you'll need to qualify through an affiliated science fair at the local or regional level. If you win there, you can compete on the international stage. 

Projects in the Intel Science talent search are judged based on creativity, scientific rigor, and the potential impact of the research. You have to complete a research study that includes no more than 12 months of continuous research carried out no more than 18 months before the competition date.

Winners can receive scholarships, cash awards, and internship opportunities. At ISEF 2024, $9 million in prizes were given away. The top award, a whopping $75,000, went to Grace Sun of Lexington, KY!

In addition, special awards from organizations like NASA and the National Institutes of Health provide further recognition and career opportunities.

If you want to learn more about this competition - including how to win! - Polygence has winning tips for Regeneron ISEF with best practices and tips for you to explore. You’ll also learn the benefits of working with a Polygence mentor to help you rise to the top.

3. International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)

If numbers and equations make your heart race, the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is the academic competition for you. 

To participate in the IMO, you'll need to excel in your national finals first. Each participating country (there are seven total) selects a team of up to six students (typically high school seniors) to represent them at the international level. The competition consists of two days of intense problem-solving, where participants tackle challenging questions that test their mathematical prowess.

Participating in the IMO is a badge of honor. Winning a medal can open doors to many universities and scholarship opportunities. Awards are given to the top-scoring 50% of the individual contestants rather than full teams. https://www.polygence.org/blog/math-competitions-high-school-students 

4. International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO)

The International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) is a global competition working to promote excellence in chemistry among high school students. Established in 1968, the IChO challenges participants with both theoretical and practical chemistry problems.

To compete in this science Olympiad, you'll need to be selected through your national chemistry competitions. The IChO comprises two main parts: a theoretical exam and a practical lab exam. Both sections test participants' knowledge and skills in various areas of chemistry.

Want to learn more about chemistry competitions for high school students? Find out more - and find your ideal mentor.

5. International Biology Olympiad (IBO)

The International Biology Olympiad (IBO) is a competition for high school biology enthusiasts. Established in 1990, the IBO aims to promote interest and excellence in biology through challenging exams and practical tasks.

To participate in the IBO, you'll need to qualify through your national biology competitions and cannot be older than 20 years of age. The IBO consists of two theoretical exams and a practical exam. The theoretical exams cover a wide range of biology topics, while the practical exam tests participants' laboratory skills. 

This is a tough competition to prepare for - according to the competition’s website, “you should expect a large variety of topics to be part of the examinations.”

But the rewards of this science bowl are immense. By participating in this challenge, which will be held in Astana, Kazakhstan, in 2024, you'll deepen your understanding of biology, enhance your laboratory skills, and even connect with fellow biology enthusiasts. 

6. International Physics Olympiad (IPhO)

The International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) is the ultimate competition for high school students who have a passion for physics. Established in 1967 and first held in Poland, the IPhO challenges participants with both theoretical and experimental physics problems. In 2024, it will be held in Iran. 

To compete in the IPhO, again, you'll need to qualify through your national physics competitions. This event is open to high school students around the world. The IPhO consists of two main components: a theoretical exam and an experimental exam. 

As is the case with many of the other competitions described above, you won’t win much for prize money - the amounts vary each year, but gold medalists typically receive at most $100 USD. However, winning a medal in this international physics bowl can boost your academic profile and open doors to future opportunities in the field of physics.

You can learn more about the International Physics Olympiad - and find the best mentor to help[ you meet your goals - with Polygence.

7. International Geography Olympiad (iGeo)

Established in 1996, the iGeo challenges participants with a range of geographical tasks and problems.

Again, to participate in the iGeo, you'll need to qualify through your national geography competitions. The iGeo comprises three main components: a written test, a fieldwork exercise, and a multimedia test. These tasks assess participants' knowledge, skills, and understanding of geographical concepts.

Winners receive medals, certificates, and recognition that can significantly boost their academic and career prospects. As is the case with many of the other competitions on this list, you won't end up with much money - but you’ll have major bragging rights when you return home. The 2024 competition will be held in Dublin, Ireland.

8. International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI)

Last but not least, the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI) is a prestigious competition for high school students who excel in computer science and programming. Established in 1989, the IOI challenges participants with complex algorithmic and computational problems.

To compete in the IOI, you'll need to qualify through your national informatics competitions. The IOI consists of two main components: a programming contest and a theoretical exam. Both parts test participants' problem-solving skills and their ability to develop efficient algorithms.

9. Google Science Fair

The Google Science Fair is like the Olympics for young scientists. 

This competition aims to inspire and support budding scientists and engineers. With categories ranging from environmental sciences to robotics, there's something for every curious mind.

If you're between 13 and 18 years old and have a passion for science, you're eligible to participate in the Google Science Fair. The application process is straightforward. Just submit a project proposal outlining your idea, research, and methodology. 

The best part? You can work solo or team up with friends to tackle a project.

Participating in the Google Science Fair can open doors you never thought possible. Competitors have the chance to win scholarships and grants while also networking with industry experts. Imagine having your project reviewed by scientists from NASA or Google! 

The only downside to this competition is that its dates are sporadic - the last competition was in 2018 and no date has yet been announced for 2024. It’s not clear if this competition will continue to be held in the future. 

How to Prepare for International Science Competitions

If you've got a lab coat stashed somewhere in your closet and a head full of scientific wonders, you're probably itching to showcase your brilliance on an international stage. 

So how do you prepare to conquer these competitions without pulling all-nighters and living on instant noodles? Here are some tips to help you prepare for an international science competition - and become the next science superstar:

Know Your Why

Before you start preparing, you need to know why you should even bother with these STEM competitions in the first place. After all, isn’t high school challenging enough without adding more stress to your science-loving plate?

For one, participating in international science competitions can significantly enhance your college application. College admissions officers love to see students who have taken on challenges and excelled in them. Winning or even just participating in these contests showcases your dedication, intelligence, and passion for science.

And just imagine meeting like-minded science enthusiasts from around the world. International competitions offer incredible networking opportunities. You might find your future college roommates, science research partners, or even lifelong friends!

Your “why” for wanting to participate in one of these events likely won’t be the same as anyone else’s - and that’s okay. 

But you do need to put some thought into why you want to go down this path in the first place before you start planning out your approach. This will give you the grit and determination you need to keep going …particularly when the going gets tough!

Understand the Competition Rules

Before you start experimenting with your beakers and test tubes, thoroughly read the high school science competition’s rules and guidelines. Take time to familiarize yourself with these so you don’t make any costly errors.

There’s nothing that’s quite as gut-wrenching as doing all the work of researching and planning a project, only to find out at the last minute that you can’t compete because of a small technicality or rule you weren’t aware of.
Do your research  - then do it again. Make sure you understand the ins and outs of every single rule you’re supposed to follow.

Pick a Topic That You’re Passionate About

Pick a topic that genuinely excites you. Passion is what lights the fire for motivation - once you’re motivated by a project, you’ll find the drive to see it through. Judges won’t be able to resist feeding off your excitement!

The other benefit of choosing a project you care deeply about is that it will allow you to truly be yourself. Have you ever worked on a large assignment at school where you were bored the entire time - and didn’t feel totally invested in the project as a result? You can easily avoid this by choosing a topic you know you love for your research. The caveat is, of course, that it still needs to be in line with the requirements of the STEM competition you choose. 

Get Organized and Manage Your Time

Don’t do anything else until you have a clear idea of the deadlines and timelines for your project. Know what’s due and when - and what you’ll need to submit in order to qualify. Get out a calendar and mark your major dates on it so you don’t have any crossed wires or miscommunications.

Then, start by creating a detailed plan that outlines and acknowledges each step of your project. Include deadlines for each task and allocate time for research, experimentation, and revision. Stick to your plan as closely as possible.

Take advantage of digital tools to stay organized. Are you working on a team project? Trello's got your project mapped out. Need to jot down some meeting notes? Evernote's got your back. And don't forget that meeting on Thursday - Google Calendar's got you covered!

Remember, you still need to balance your time between your competition project and your regular schoolwork. Don't neglect your studies, and make sure you leave yourself enough time for relaxation and your favorite hobbies to avoid burnout.

Find a Mentor

No one becomes a science wizard alone. Some of the world’s greatest scientists had mentors who helped guide them. In the early years, Hermann Minkowski, Albert Einstein's high school math mentor, instilled in him a passion for theoretical physics and mathematics.

Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, was mentored by physicist Henri Becquerel during her studies in Paris. 

And Carl Sagan, who had a profound impact on popular science, was mentored by the famed astronomer and physicist Robert Jastrow. Jastrow's impressive knack for simplicity and accessibility in his explanations rubbed off on Sagan, who became driven to demystify science for the general public.

Having a seasoned pro guide, you can make all the difference - look for a mentor with a strong track record in your chosen field. As you work on your project, your mentor's pearls of wisdom, constructive feedback, and encouragement create a safety net to catch you if you fall. Teachers, professors, and professionals in the industry are all excellent choices.

And remember, even something as simple as joining science clubs and organizations can connect you with experienced individuals who can offer guidance. These groups often have resources, workshops, and events that can aid your preparation.

Having a mentor by your side can make all the difference. That’s where Polygence comes in. We’ll pair you with the perfect mentor to help you realize your vision and pave the way to success in any international science competition you choose to participate in.

Next Steps with Polygence

Whether you head home with a medal or not, participating in an international science competition is one of the best things you can do if you have a passion for science and want to make your mark on the field. The opportunities for growth, learning, and recognition are second to none.

At Polygence, we create real-world connections that matter. You’ll be paired with a mentor who’s a real rockstar in your field of choice - and they’ll stop at nothing to see you succeed. The key to success is to stay passionate, stay organized, and seek help when it’s needed.

Polygence is here to help you every step of the way with our one-on-one research mentorship program. Whether you're aiming for the stars or just looking to have fun with science, we believe in your potential to achieve greatness.

Ready to start your scientific adventure? Sign up with Polygence today and let's make your scientific dreams a reality. Happy experimenting!