Are you a high school student passionate about science, math, or technology? Participating in competitions isn’t just a great way to challenge yourself—it’s also an excellent opportunity to boost your college applications, build confidence, and connect with like-minded peers.
In this blog, we’ve curated a list of the best science and math competitions for high schoolers, along with helpful details to get you started on your journey.
🌟 Why Science & Math Competitions Matter
Science and math contests go beyond classroom learning. They:
Promote critical thinking and problem-solving
Expose students to real-world applications
Offer scholarships, certificates, and sometimes even college credits
Help students stand out in college admissions
Whether you’re a budding engineer, future scientist, or math enthusiast, these contests can push your academic journey to the next level.
🔬 Top Science Competitions for High School Students
1. Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)
What it is: One of the oldest and most prestigious U.S. science research competitions.
Who it’s for: High school seniors with a passion for original scientific research.
Why it matters: Finalists earn trips to Washington, D.C., and scholarships up to $250,000.
2. International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
What it is: The world’s largest international science competition for high schoolers.
Who it’s for: Students who win local science fairs and advance to the international level.
Why it matters: It brings together over 1,800 students from 75+ countries.
3. Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS)
What it is: A research-based competition sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Who it’s for: High school students conducting STEM-based research.
Why it matters: Offers scholarships and the chance to present in a professional setting.
4. Google Science Fair (on hiatus, check for return)
What it is: A global online science competition for students aged 13–18.
Why it matters: Sponsored by big names like Google, LEGO, and National Geographic, it encourages innovative thinking.
➗ Top Math Competitions for High School Students
1. American Mathematics Competitions (AMC)
What it is: A series of examinations leading to the U.S. Math Olympiad.
Who it’s for: Talented problem solvers from middle to high school.
Why it matters: Great for sharpening problem-solving skills and qualifying for national math camps.
2. Math Kangaroo
What it is: An international math contest with fun and challenging problems.
Who it’s for: Students from grade 1 through 12.
Why it matters: It’s an accessible entry point for students of all skill levels.
3. MATHCOUNTS
What it is: A national middle school competition that includes written and live problem-solving rounds.
Who it’s for: Middle schoolers looking for team-based math challenges.
Why it matters: Builds teamwork, speed, and confidence under pressure.4.
4. Purple Comet! Math Meet
What it is: An online, international team-based math competition.
Why it matters: Offers collaboration and global participation without needing to travel.
🧠 Bonus: Multidisciplinary Competitions
1. Science Olympiad
A team competition with events spanning biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and technology.
2. Academic Decathlon
Includes math and science, but also literature, art, music, and economics.
🎯 Tips to Succeed in Competitions
Start early: Many contests require project submissions or registration months in advance.
Find a mentor: A teacher or coach can provide guidance and feedback.
Practice consistently: For math, solve past papers; for science, sharpen your research and presentation skills.
Stay curious: Read articles, explore experiments, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.
📌 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re exploring quantum physics or solving geometry puzzles, science and math competitions provide a platform to shine academically, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong passions.
Don’t just aim for trophies—use these competitions to discover what excites you most and take your learning to the next level!