Science Talent Search (STS) vs Regeneron ISEF 2026
Comparing two elite STEM opportunities. Both are competitions for high school students.
| Science Talent Search (STS) | Regeneron ISEF 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Prestige Tier | Tier 1 — Elite | Tier 1 — Elite |
| Type | Competition | Competition |
| Organization | Society for Science | Regeneron |
| Acceptance Rate | Highly competitive; specific percentage not available | Roughly 1,700 finalists are selected from 365 affiliated fairs worldwide. Getting to ISEF requires first winning regionally, which itself is competitive. Estimated <1% of all science fair participants globally reach ISEF. At the ISEF itself, approximately 600 of the 1,700 finalists (~35%) receive some award. |
| Applicants | Thousands of high school students compete through affiliated science fairs nationwide | Millions of students compete in science fairs globally each year; approximately 1,700–1,800 reach ISEF as finalists |
| Deadline | — | — |
| Cost to Apply | Free | Free |
| US Only | Yes | No / International |
| Grades | High school seniors only | Grades 9–12 (high school students only; middle schoolers compete in the separate Junior Innovators Challenge) |
| College Impact | The Regeneron Science Talent Search is among the most prestigious science competitions and significantly impacts college admissions. Finalists are nationally recognized and receive considerable presti... | ISEF finalist status is one of the most powerful extracurricular credentials in college admissions. Being named an ISEF finalist (simply qualifying) is Tier 1 on most admissions frameworks. Grand Awar... |