The Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science research competition for high school students, offering $3.1 million in annual awards, including a $250,000 top prize, for original research in STEM.
The Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) is a unique and prestigious competition for high school students in the United States, focusing on identifying, inspiring, and engaging future leaders in STEM fields. Annually, approximately 2,600 students participate by submitting original research projects in various scientific disciplines, alongside a comprehensive application that undergoes a holistic review process. This competition distributes a total of $3.1 million in awards each year. This includes a significant first-place prize of $250,000, intended to support the winner's continued scientific education. The program aims to recognize and empower young scientists who are developing innovative ideas with the potential to address urgent societal challenges. The Regeneron STS, which began in 1942 as the Westinghouse Science Talent Search, has a long history of honoring exceptional analytical rigor, problem-solving skills, and the potential of students to significantly contribute to the future of STEM. Forty finalists are selected from a larger pool of 300 scholars, who are then invited to a finals week in Washington, D.C., where they compete for the top awards. Beyond financial prizes, the competition offers finalists and scholars opportunities for networking with peers and established researchers, gaining recognition for their work, and receiving advice from experienced educators and alumni. The program emphasizes scientific integrity and encourages participants to showcase the entire story of their research, including challenges and pivots, as part of their application.
Original research in critically important scientific fields of study.
High school students