Participating in Intel ISEF provides a pathway to science innovation and self discovery. Students begin by developing a science research project and participating in their local Intel ISEF affiliated science fair. They learn to collaborate with others and articulate their scientific findings through projects.
Enter an Intel ISEF-Affiliated Science Fair
All participants attend Intel ISEF annually after being selected by their local Intel ISEF-affiliated fair. The affiliated fairs are conducted at local, regional, and national levels. Each affiliated fair is permitted to send two individual project finalists and one team project to compete in the Intel ISEF. Affiliated fairs in your area*.
How to Start Your Project
The earlier you start your project, the better. Many students begin planning their research at the end of the school year so that they can conduct research during the summer and fall. See the Rules and Guidelines*.
Support and Encourage Students in Science Fairs
Science fairs depend upon the support, encouragement, and volunteer efforts of teachers, parents, and communities. If you are the parent of a student interested in participating, see Tips for Parents*.
If you are a teacher who has a student interested in entering a science fair, see the Teacher Checklist*. In an effort to share good ideas worldwide, learn from other teachers whose students have participated in Intel ISEF and affiliated fairs in several countries describe their strategies. Read more. (PDF; 6 pages)
Science Training Programs for Teachers and Students
Many of the Intel ISEF participants take part in a science training program to help them with their projects. There are more than 300 training programs that take place throughout the year at a variety of institutions, predominately at U.S. colleges and universities. Directory of Science Training Programs*
Middle School Outreach
Interested in engaging middle school students in science fair projects? A comprehensive, hands-on curriculum and teachers' planning guide is available for free.
