Virtual
STEM Challenge

The STEM4ALL Virtual STEM Challenge is an online science and engineering fair for students in Grades 3–12. It provides young scientists and engineers with an accessible platform to explore ideas, develop original projects, and present their work for virtual judging, recognition, and awards.

Students are encouraged to pursue projects inspired by their personal interests, curiosity, community needs, global challenges, or ideas for the future. Projects may address any area of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.

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Explore a Problem. Develop an Idea. Share Your Work.

The STEM Challenge encourages students to move beyond classroom learning by investigating meaningful questions and developing thoughtful scientific or engineering projects.

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Students may:

• Conduct an original scientific investigation

• Design and test an engineering solution

• Explore a real-world problem

• Develop a prototype or proof of concept

• Improve an existing process, product, or approach

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Projects may be completed individually or by teams of up to four students. Each team member must complete an individual registration.

Optional Sustainable Development Goals Alignment

Students may choose to connect their projects with one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including:

• Good health and well-being

• Quality education

• Clean water and sanitation

• Affordable and clean energy

• Sustainable cities and communities

• Responsible consumption and production

• Climate action

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SDG alignment is optional. Students are welcome to explore any topic that reflects their interests, ideas, and creativity.

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Virtual Project Submission

Students submit their projects through an online process. Required materials may include:

• Project abstract

• Project poster or presentation

• Project video

• Supporting information requested for the cohort

There are no live interviews unless otherwise announced for a specific cohort. Judges evaluate projects based on the submitted materials and the published judging criteria.

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Grade Divisions

Projects are evaluated within three grade-level divisions:

• Elementary School: Grades 3–5

• Middle School: Grades 6–8

• High School: Grades 9–12

This structure allows students to be recognized alongside participants at a similar stage of learning and development.

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Judging and Recognition

Projects are reviewed by volunteer judges with backgrounds in STEM, education, research, and industry. Evaluation may consider:

• Clarity of the problem or research question

• Scientific or engineering approach

• Creativity and originality

• Quality of analysis and evidence

• Real-world relevance

• Communication and presentation

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Awards and recognition may include:

• Division awards

• Science and engineering category awards

• Sustainable Development Goals awards

• Creativity and innovation awards

• Impact-focused awards

• Sponsored special awards

Award categories may vary by cohort based on participation and available sponsorships.

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Accessible from Anywhere

Because the STEM Challenge is conducted virtually, students can participate without traveling to an in-person event. This format expands access for students who may not have a local science and engineering fair or who want an additional opportunity to share their work.

Each cohort has its own eligibility requirements, registration period, submission deadline, award categories, and ceremony schedule.

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Join the Next STEM Challenge

Have a question you want to investigate, a solution you want to build, or an idea you are ready to share? The STEM4ALL Virtual STEM Challenge gives you the opportunity to present your work, learn through the project-development process, and receive recognition for your effort and achievement.

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