Student Newsletter

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Get a Head-Start on Science Fair 2025:

SRC Pre-Approval and More

Happy (almost) Summer! If you are already thinking about Science Fair 2025, we are too!

If you want to get started with a new project idea or want to begin experimentation over the summer, you must follow the rules to avoid disqualification.

Check out the information below to see if your project requires pre-approval.

What Should I Do if I Plan to Experiment This Summer?

If you are engaged in summer experimentation, make sure you:

Have contact with a teacher who can approve your project.
Fill out the necessary forms and submit to src@scifair.com for approval
Plan ahead! Allow up to 10 days for review & approval before you can begin experimentation

MSEF will contact you to create an account and upload paperwork to MAHS.zfairs.com once available for the new school year.

Do I Need SRC Pre-Approval?

Students who engage in research in the following categories MUST get prior approval before starting experimentation. This includes students who plan to conduct research during the summer or any students conducting research out of the country. This prior approval MUST come from the Statewide Scientific Review Committee (SRC) for projects that involve

Human participants/subjects
Vertebrate animals
Hazardous, toxic, or explosive chemicals
Potentially hazardous biological agents

Important to note: We know that summer research can move fast so please be proactive and reach out in advance to src@scifair.com early to discuss your timeline. We will try our best from our end to make it work for your timeline but this relies on communication from your end!

I need a good project idea!

If you're looking for project ideas or want to work on background research, start by thinking of something that makes you wonder 'why?'

Choose a topic that will keep your interest for several months. Some students choose an area of interest that might not fall under the topics of STEM (i.e. music). Or explore an issue that matters in your community.

As always, if you have questions about getting started with an idea or any process along your Science Fair journey, feel free to email student@scifair.com.

What if I Don't Have a Teacher to Sponsor My Project?

MSEF is a school-based program so you will need a teacher to sponsor you as you continue your project. Students at schools without a fair can still participate in our Fairs but need to coordinate with their schools. Homeschool students or students who do not have the support of their schools also have a path to participation, but you must contact MSEF in advance.

Contact student@scifair.com for details.

MSEF-Highlighted Opportunities for Students

The AKLU Scholarship

Created in 2015 by ALKU CEO and MMP Board Member Mark Eldridge, the ALKU Scholarship is a $30,000 college scholarship for rising high school seniors. The scholarship provides youth the opportunity to apply for financial support to achieve their full potential as they pursue their college careers.

Breakthrough Junior Challenge

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is an annual global competition for students to inspire creative thinking about science. Students ages 13 to 18 from countries across the globe are invited to create and submit original videos (2:00 minutes in length maximum) that bring to life a concept or theory in the life sciences, physics or mathematics.

Coolest Projects

Coolest Projects is a celebration of young digital creators and the amazing things they make with technology. There's an annual worldwide, online Coolest Projects showcase and in-person Coolest Projects events also take place in several countries.

Stories from Asian and Pacific Islander Trailblazers in Science and Tech

Tomorrow, May 23rd @ 5:30pm.

This event is focused on enhancing the representation of Asian & Pacific Islander groups in science and technology, breaking barriers, navigating challenges, and building relationships with the community and peers. There will be a panel discussion and networking. This panel will be moderated by Lesley Chan, Senior Director, CMC lead of Sickle Cell Disease Program, bluebird bio.

Click on the heading of each opportunity to learn more!

We're so excited to see you again for the 2024-2025 Science Fair Season!

@MassScienceFair

Martha Johnson

Student Programs Coordinator

mjohnson@scifair.com

Advancing science and engineering literacy since 1949, the Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair (MSEF) was founded by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, MIT professors, and a group of pioneering K-12 science educators.

MSEF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

Massachusetts Science + Engineering Fair | scifair.com