Hi Future Innovators!

As science fair season approaches, we’re excited to share crucial tips for ensuring young project leaders have the support they need. This guide covers the vital roles of adult sponsors, teachers, and our Mentorship Program, providing you with practical guidance to help you excel. Learn how to effectively engage with these key supporters to maximize the impact of their projects.

Adult Support

Students must have the support of qualified adults to participate in Science Fair. You can learn more about the steps you need to take for your project using our Science Fair Ready Checklist.

Teachers

Your teacher provides oversight for the academic integrity & ethics of your project. They also are the person who will guide you through the sign-up process, providing permission to participate and signs off in zFairs.

Adult Sponsor

An adult under whose close supervision the student is working in a lab. The Adult Sponsor may be and most often is a teacher. However, they can also be a parent, professor, or scientist/engineer, but must have a solid background in science/engineering. Provides oversight to scientific integrity & ethics.

Parents

Parents provide permission to participate.

Other Supervisors

Students may also need a 'Designated Supervisor' or 'Qualified Scientist'.

Students who do not have the support of their school should contact MSEF at info@scifair.com BEFORE starting a project.

Mentorship Program

Want support on your project this year? MSEF offers great opportunities for you to work with an expert in your field of interest!

Sign up for our Mentorship Program and get paired with a STEM professional or expert in your field of interest. They’ll provide guidance, support, and valuable insights to help you excel in your project. Enhance your skills and make your ideas come to life with expert help.

Spots are limited and matches are not guaranteed. This does not include lab access.

Project Process

Make sure to check out the 2025 Project Components Guides to stay ahead of the game for this year's Science Fair. This essential guide will provide you with all the details on what you'll need to prepare and present your project successfully. Get a head start and make your Science Fair experience a standout one!

This Year's Simplified Process

Did you know that this year's Science Fair Process has become simpler? We are so excited to introduce you to our new Paperwork Packet! In this new packet, the standard forms required for all projects are in one place—one download and one upload. Projects in restricted areas will still need one or more required forms, but for 75% of you this one packet will be all you need to submit for approval.

Make sure to preview this new packet, but don't start to fill it out without your teacher. This coordination is essential since some schools may have different rules and earlier deadlines.

High School Paperwork Packet

High School Manual

MSEF-Highlighted Opportunities

Be sure to check out these events and opportunities coming up. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions!

• Want the chance to create an app and have it displayed in the US Capitol Building? Check out the Congretional App Challenge for the opportunity to compete against some of the brightest minds in technology; registration is open from May 1st until October 24th of 2024.
• Don’t miss the Cambridge Science Festival from September 23-29. This vibrant event features interactive exhibits, engaging talks, and hands-on activities that celebrate the wonders of science and innovation. It's a great chance to dive into the latest discoveries and get inspired by the world of STEM. Be sure to check it out!
• High school students can gain hands-on research experience and mentorship at the Broad Institute. This program offers a deep dive into biomedical science and is perfect for those passionate about STEM. Learn more and apply here: Broad Summer Scholars Program.
• Dive into the MedScience Moonshot program, offering high school students an exciting opportunity to engage in cutting-edge medical research and innovation. This program provides hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and a deep look into the future of medical science. Discover more and apply here: MedScience Moonshot Program.

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.