How to enroll
Seniors apply themselves through the online application portal.
- Create an account in the application portal
- Upload your research report, essays and recommendations
- Submit before 8 PM Eastern on the deadline
By Nov 5, 8 PM Eastern
Open the application ↗In plain words
Seniors submit an original research project they did during high school, plus essays and recommendations. 300 Scholars and 40 Finalists are named in January, and Finalists compete during finals week in March.
Great for
Seniors who already have a finished research project
Less ideal if
The research isn't done yet. This is a showcase, not a starting point.
What it takes
Cost
No fee listed on the official site
Format
Online application · finals week in March
Who
On their own, with three recommenders
Time
Builds on research they've already done. Allow several weeks for the write-up.
Step by step
- 1Read the official rules and application requirements
- 2Write up the research report and short essays
- 3Line up three recommendations (educator, project, and transcript)
- 4Submit online by Nov 5, 8 PM Eastern
Where it leads
- ApplicationNov 5
- Top 300 ScholarsJan 7
- Top 40 FinalistsJan 21
- Finals weekMar 11–17
$3.1 million in awards each year, including a $250,000 first prize
Key dates
- 12 DAYSApplication dueThu, November 5, 2026, 7:00 PM Central
Free prep
Add these dates to my calendar
Dates update on their own when an organizer changes them. Nothing about your child is stored.
Checked against Regeneron STS 2027, Society for Science on October 11, 2026. Suggestions, not guarantees: always confirm with the organizer.