Science Talent Search (STS)

Grades

High school seniors only

Age

Not specified in available materials

Citizenship

Not specified in available materials

Prerequisites

Must be conducting original scientific research; participation appears to involve submission through affiliated science fairs

Steps

1. Conduct original scientific research
2. Enter through affiliated regional/state science fair
3. Submit research project and materials to STS
4. Regional and state level competitions
5. Selection of semifinalists
6. Selection of finalists for national recognition

Materials Needed

• Scientific research project documentation
• Research paper/report
• Project display materials
• Teacher recommendation/mentorship documentation

Timeline

Typically follows academic year; exact deadlines not available in search results

Cost

Not specified; likely free for participants

What Judges Look For

• Quality and originality of scientific research
• Demonstrated scientific inquiry and methodology
• Impact and significance of research findings
• Student's understanding of their research
• Communication of scientific concepts

Scoring

Not publicly available in search results

Common Mistakes

• Lack of original research (replicating known experiments)
• Insufficient documentation and methodology
• Poor communication of scientific findings
• Inadequate research scope or depth
• Failure to properly credit sources and collaborators

Acceptance Rate

Highly competitive; specific percentage not available

Applicants

Thousands of high school students compete through affiliated science fairs nationwide

Winners / Selected

Appears to include semifinalists and finalists; specific numbers not available in search results

• Choose a research topic you are genuinely passionate about - judges can tell when students are invested
• Start research early; STS requires substantial, original scientific work that takes months to complete
• Work with a mentor teacher who can guide your research design and methodology
• Focus on research quality over presentation polish - judges prioritize scientific rigor
• Clearly document your research process, including hypotheses, methodology, results, and conclusions
• Be prepared to discuss and defend your research - communication skills matter
• Ensure your research is original and not a replication of known experiments
• Participate in your regional/state science fair first; this is the entry point to STS
• Follow all scientific and ethical guidelines in your research
• Keep detailed lab notebooks and records throughout your project

How to Prepare

• Develop a strong relationship with a mentor teacher early in high school
• Seek opportunities for lab experience through university partnerships or internships
• Choose a research topic aligned with your genuine interests in STEM
• Design rigorous experimental methodology before beginning research
• Maintain detailed records and documentation throughout the research process
• Learn proper scientific writing and communication techniques
• Study examples of previous STS finalist research projects
• Practice presenting and defending your research
• Ensure your research meets all ethical standards and guidelines

Resources

• Society for Science official website (societyforscience.org)
• Research Teachers Conferences hosted by Society for Science
• Science News and Science News Explores publications
• STEM Research Grants for teacher-mentors
• University research mentorship programs
• Affiliated regional and state science fairs
• Society for Science Advocate Program for research mentors

Time Needed

12-18 months of preparation and research; should begin sophomore or junior year of high school

Successful STS applicants typically: (1) Have conducted substantial, original scientific research over 6+ months with university or institutional lab access; (2) Work under the mentorship of experienced research teachers or scientists; (3) Demonstrate deep understanding of their research topic and scientific methodology; (4) Show clear evidence of independent thinking and problem-solving; (5) Come from schools with strong science programs and research opportunities; (6) Present work that addresses significant scientific questions or contributes meaningfully to their field; (7) Exhibit excellent communication skills and can articulate the importance of their work

The Regeneron Science Talent Search is among the most prestigious science competitions and significantly impacts college admissions. Finalists are nationally recognized and receive considerable prestige. College admissions officers view STS participation, especially finalist or semifinalist status, as evidence of: (1) Exceptional scientific ability and research skills; (2) Dedication to STEM and independent inquiry; (3) Ability to conduct rigorous, original work at the highest level; (4) Strong work ethic and commitment to intellectual pursuits. Being named an STS finalist is a major advantage in college applications, particularly for STEM programs at top universities. The competition demonstrates capabilities that distinguish applicants from peers.

• Regeneron ISEF 2026 — Tier 1, competition
• United States of America Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO) — Tier 1, olympiad
• International Physics Olympiad — Tier 1, olympiad
• Ron Brown Scholar Program 2026 — Tier 1, scholarship
• Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program in Biomedical Sciences — Tier 1, summer program