Top 10 Biology Competitions for High School Students: With Advice from a Former Admissions Officer
Planning summer activities can be a challenging and time-consuming task. Given the wide array of
Planning summer activities can be a challenging and time-consuming task. Given the wide array of summer programs available for high school students, it demands careful research to find the ones that align best with your interests and goals.
Pioneer Academics has consistently set high standards for independent research conducted by high school students. We’ve applied these stringent standards to select the best biology competitions and related summer programs that merit your investment this summer.
Remember, Pioneer is here to offer valuable guides and resources to help you identify the top science competitions for high school students.
Whether your interest lies in molecular biology, aquatic ecology, human genetics, or synthetic biology, we’re here to guide you to the best opportunities. Prepare to gain invaluable experience, enrich your college applications, and perhaps even secure cash prizes, all while expanding your knowledge and skills in this fascinating field.
Here’s to a summer that is not just well-spent, but unforgettable.
Advice from a Former Admissions Officer
Brett Fuller
Academic Development Manager | Pioneer Academics
Former Associate Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Wake Forest University
Former Senior Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
There are many different approaches to crafting an effective college application, but the best share at least two traits: they give admissions officers a very clear sense of the student’s “voice”, and they distinguish the student from their peers in some meaningful way. “Voice” in this instance refers to a combination of the traits that make the student who they are such as their personality, interests, background, aspirations, etc. I often describe the sense of “voice” in an application in the following way – if you were to hand your application to someone you trusted who knew you incredibly well (a family member, best friend, counselor) would they agree that it represents you? You are submitting your application to an admissions officer who is presumably a complete stranger; will that AO be left with an accurate impression of who you are?
The second common denominator for effective applications is the ability to distinguish yourself from peers. This is where competitions or achievements can come into play. If you list biology as a potential college major in your application, an admissions officer is going to be looking for support of that interest. They will want to know where that interest came from, and how you have engaged with it. This can be as simple as looking at your transcript to see if you have challenged yourself in the sciences, relative to what your school offers. But, it also can provide an opportunity to show that you have gone above and beyond taking classes of interest.
The list below represents a number of different types of competitions that can add substance and depth to your interests in an application. Some are team competitions and others are completed individually. Some are more regional in nature and others are national or even international in their scope. Entering one of these competitions comes with the baked in benefit of getting to dive deeper into your field of interest! Even before being considered for a prize of any kind, you gain experience and knowledge that will add to your application and add to your foundation of knowledge as you prepare for undergraduate study. If you do manage to win a prize, your application can be distinguished from your peers in a meaningful way. That prize is a clear indicator to admissions officers that you have produced high quality work, and your interest in the field has real depth.
💡Bonus tips for choosing the right academic programs:
Pioneer Academics
Pioneer Academics Research Program offers high school students worldwide a unique opportunity to conduct undergraduate-level research in diverse fields, including biology. As the only fully accredited online research program for high school students, we encourage intellectual curiosity and exploration across various disciplines.
Our selected students collaborate with renowned U.S. university professors, delve into advanced studies, and conduct substantial research that culminates in a full-length research paper. We maintain rigorous standards, including the careful selection of faculty mentors and a stringent review process for research quality.
Through this program, we aim to foster academic growth, ignite interest in science competitions, and enrich college applications. Whether you’re a high school student interested in biology or another field, Pioneer offers the guidance and resources to help you excel in your academic journey and beyond.
USA Biolympiad (USABO)
As a leading biology competition in the U.S., the USA Biolympiad or USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) aims to raise the scientific education of nearly 10,000 high schoolers by offering resources, motivation, and advanced training beyond the classroom.
After rigorous exams, twenty finalists receive in-depth residential training, and the top four students get the honor to represent the U.S. at the International Biology Olympiad (IBO), an international science competition with participation from over seventy countries.
Since 2003, every U.S. participant has medaled at the IBO, showcasing remarkable success, including securing the top global position in 2011 and 2013. USABO’s goals include nurturing curiosity in young biology enthusiasts, fostering international scientific networks, and promoting excellence in biology-related careers.
The USABO and IBO’s exams cover seven essential topics ranging from animal anatomy and physiology to biosystematics. This competition provides a platform for high school students to compete on a global stage, enhancing their research projects and analytical skills, which can significantly benefit their college applications.
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Represent the United States as the USA Biolympiad Team at the International Biology Olympiad |
| Program Dates | February 2nd – Online Open Exam (OE)
March 16th – Semifinal Exam June 2nd – 16th, 2023 – National Finals |
| Application Deadline(s) | November 18th, 2022 |
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Represent the United States as the USA Biolympiad Team at the International Biology Olympiad |
| Program Dates | February 2nd – Online Open Exam (OE)
March 16th – Semifinal Exam June 2nd – 16th, 2023 – National Finals |
| Application Deadline(s) | November 18th, 2022 |
The Plant the Moon Challenge
The Plant the Moon Challenge is a science competition that provides a unique opportunity for anyone, from high school students to space hobbyists, to contribute to humanity’s future in space.
Participants are tasked with a critical mission—examining how vegetable crops can grow in lunar or Martian soil, aiming to secure food security for future space missions.
Upon registration, teams receive soil simulant from the University of Central Florida’s CLASS Exolith Lab. They design experiments to grow crops using the simulant, defining experimental parameters like plant growth setup, water usage, and the nutrients added to support growth.
After a 10-week growing period, teams submit research reports, joining a global network of researchers aiming to expand our exploration capabilities in space.
All participants with completed projects are invited to a virtual symposium featuring NASA scientists and other dignitaries. Awards are given to the teams with the best experiments in various categories.
The challenge presents a hands-on STEM field experience, encouraging students interested in biological sciences, computational biology, and space exploration to apply their analytical skills and contribute to future space travel initiatives.
| Format | In-person and Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Best in Show Awards |
| Program Dates | February 6th to March 16th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | January 20th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person and Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Best in Show Awards |
| Program Dates | February 6th to March 16th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | January 20th, 2023 |
National Science Bowl
The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Science Bowl® is a prestigious national competition that tests the knowledge of middle and high school students in all areas of science and mathematics.
Students form teams, including four members, an alternate, and a teacher acting as an advisor and coach. These teams compete in a question-and-answer format, answering queries across various science disciplines such as biology, chemistry, Earth science, physics, energy, and math.
The National Science Bowl is one of the more established science competitions in the U.S. that encourage students to excel in STEM fields and pursue careers in these areas. Over its 32-year history, it has become one of the nation’s largest science competitions, with around 330,000 student participants.
Each year, starting in January, over 9,000 high school and 5,000 middle school students compete in regional Science Bowl tournaments. Winners of these regional events are invited to the National event held in Washington, DC.
The DOE sponsors this competition to make science and math appealing to students, aiming to nurture the future generation of scientists and boost their participation in various science research projects.
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash prizes, scholarships |
| Program Dates | Regional Events dates may vary, National Finals are held from April 27 – May 1, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Registrations close 3 weeks prior to the date of the regional even |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash prizes, scholarships |
| Program Dates | Regional Events dates may vary, National Finals are held from April 27 – May 1, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Registrations close 3 weeks prior to the date of the regional even |
The BioGENEius Challenge – Biotechnology Institute
The BioGENEius Challenge is an annual competition for high school students that is sponsored by the Biotechnology Institute. It seeks to recognize outstanding research in the field of biotechnology, an expansive discipline that has applications in many industries and societal challenges.
Participation in the BioGENEius Challenge begins with state and regional science competitions, which culminate in an international competition hosted at the BIO International Convention.
Top finalists from these preliminary contests, representing the upper 5% of applicants, have the opportunity to showcase their research to the Convention’s 16,000 attendees, including a panel of judges composed of industry and academic experts.
Students compete in three main categories: the Global Healthcare Challenge (medical biotechnology), the Global Sustainability Challenge (agricultural biotechnology), and the Global Environment Challenge (industrial and environmental biotechnology).
Projects range from medical device innovations to sustainable agricultural practices. Winners are recognized at the BIO International Convention where they present their research to industry and academic experts.
| Format | In-person and Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash prizes, awards |
| Program Dates | Vary from state to state |
| Application Deadline(s) | Vary from state to state, but registrations close by late March |
| Format | In-person and Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash prizes, awards |
| Program Dates | Vary from state to state |
| Application Deadline(s) | Vary from state to state, but registrations close by late March |
The Genes in Space Challenge
Genes in Space is a unique competition open to U.S. students in grades 7-12, who can participate individually or in teams of two. This contest challenges students to design a DNA experiment addressing space travel and deep space exploration problems, underlining the biological peculiarities of life in space.
The application process involves steps like defining a hypothesis, choosing an experimental approach using the Genes in Space toolkit, and arguing for the necessity of conducting the experiment in the unique environment of the International Space Station (ISS).
The five finalists get mentored by Harvard and MIT scientists and present their proposals to the judges. One winner takes part in a Space Biology Camp, witnesses the launch at Kennedy Space Center, and gets their experiment sent to space.
| Format | In-person and Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Awards, P51 Fluorescence Biotech Kit |
| Program Dates | April 17th – August 3rd, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | April 17th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person and Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Awards, P51 Fluorescence Biotech Kit |
| Program Dates | April 17th – August 3rd, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | April 17th, 2023 |
Regeneron Science Talent Search
The Regeneron Science Talent Search (Regeneron STS), established in 1942, is the oldest and most prestigious science and mathematics competition for high school students in the United States.
It annually draws nearly 1,900 entries of original research from promising young scientists addressing critical scientific fields and societal challenges. It uniquely concentrates on identifying, inspiring, and engaging the brightest scientific minds among high school seniors.
The application requires a research report outlining an original, independent project conducted during any high school year.
The Regeneron STS is a significant stepping-stone for high schoolers, paving the way to future scientific endeavors.
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash prizes of up to $250,000, all finalists are awarded a trip to Washington D.C. and are taken on scientific field trips, and mentorship sessions |
| Program Dates | June 1st – March 14th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | November 9th, 2022 |
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash prizes of up to $250,000, all finalists are awarded a trip to Washington D.C. and are taken on scientific field trips, and mentorship sessions |
| Program Dates | June 1st – March 14th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | November 9th, 2022 |
MIT THINK Scholars Program – Massachusetts Institute of Technology
THINK is a unique science, research, and innovation program conducted by MIT undergraduates for high school students. Unlike other competitions, THINK focuses on students in the early stages of a research project, providing guidance and support.
Selected finalists receive weekly mentorship, technical assistance, and up to $1,000 in project funding. If possible, they’re also invited to MIT’s campus for an all-expenses-paid trip, where they present their research to MIT students and faculty.
Project proposals, which span fields like green technologies, practical devices, and software applications, should be feasible within a semester and a $1,000 budget. A good proposal contains an innovative idea, defined goals, and a well-planned implementation strategy.
THINK, therefore, presents an exceptional opportunity for high school students interested in science and technology to take their projects to the next level.
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,000 to work on their projects and have weekly mentorship meetings with THINK team members for technical guidance, helpful resources, and progress updates |
| Program Dates | November 2023 to December 31st, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | January 1st, 2023 |
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | $1,000 to work on their projects and have weekly mentorship meetings with THINK team members for technical guidance, helpful resources, and progress updates |
| Program Dates | November 2023 to December 31st, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | January 1st, 2023 |
The International Biology Olympiad
The International Biology Olympiad (IBO) is the world’s largest biology competition for high school students, held annually in July. Participants must secure a top-four position in their National Biology Olympiad (NBO) to qualify.
The week-long competition features theoretical exams with around 100 tasks and practical exams in 3-4 laboratories, covering all domains of biology. The focus is on applying scientific knowledge to advanced biological phenomena and conducting laboratory investigations.
There is no defined IBO syllabus, but operational guidelines ensure consistency across years while allowing room for innovation.
Preparation for IBO demands a deep understanding of biology, typically beyond the standard high school level.
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Awards |
| Program Dates | July 03rd – 11th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Dependent on Region |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Awards |
| Program Dates | July 03rd – 11th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Dependent on Region |
Breakthrough Junior Challenge
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is an annual global competition that invites students aged 13 to 18 to create engaging and educational videos explaining a challenging scientific concept or theory. Participants are tasked with simplifying complex ideas from physics, mathematics, or life sciences into accessible content.
The competition aims to inspire young minds and promote a love for science and learning. The videos are judged based on their creativity, clarity, and effectiveness in conveying the chosen topic. The winner receives a $250,000 college scholarship, and their school is awarded a state-of-the-art science lab.
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge provides a platform for young scientists to showcase their knowledge and passion while making science more accessible to a wider audience.
| Format | Submission |
|---|---|
| Cost | A $250,000 college scholarship; $100,000 to the winner’s school for the renovation or addition of a science lab; and $50,000 to a teacher selected by the winner. WOW! |
| Program Dates | You must score at least five other submissions by July 10, 2023 at 11:59 PM PDT |
| Application Deadline(s) | June 25th, 2023 at 11:59 PM PDT |
| Format | Submission |
|---|---|
| Cost | A $250,000 college scholarship; $100,000 to the winner’s school for the renovation or addition of a science lab; and $50,000 to a teacher selected by the winner. WOW! |
| Program Dates | You must score at least five other submissions by July 10, 2023 at 11:59 PM PDT |
| Application Deadline(s) | June 25th, 2023 at 11:59 PM PDT |
Davidson Fellowship – Davidson Institute
The Davidson Fellowship, offered by the Davidson Institute, is a prestigious scholarship program for gifted and high-achieving students aged 18 or under, who have completed a significant piece of work.
These scholarships, valued at $50,000, $25,000, and $10,000, are awarded based on work recognized as meaningful by experts in the field and that has potential to make a positive contribution to society.
There is no minimum age for eligibility. Teams of up to two individuals, both of whom must meet eligibility requirements, can also apply.
Applicants must submit a work in a specific domain area of science, which may include biology, chemistry, earth science, environmental science, geology, medicine, physics, space science, or other specified fields.
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | $50,000, $25,000, and $10,000 worth of scholarship funds |
| Program Dates | June – July 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 15th, 2023 |
| Format | Online |
|---|---|
| Cost | $50,000, $25,000, and $10,000 worth of scholarship funds |
| Program Dates | June – July 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 15th, 2023 |
The iGEM Competition
The iGEM Competition, run by the independent, non-profit iGEM Foundation, is an exemplary platform for high school biology enthusiasts to dive into the world of synthetic biology. This science competition allows multidisciplinary student teams from across the globe to design, build, and test projects using cutting-edge synthetic biology techniques, with an emphasis on real-world problem-solving and community impact.
Each team undertakes a project from inception to proof of concept, documenting their work through various mediums such as wikis, videos, and presentations.
The annual iGEM Grand Jamboree, touted as the “World Expo of Synthetic Biology,” provides a unique opportunity to engage with tomorrow’s leaders of synthetic biology. The upcoming Grand Jamboree will be held at the Paris Expo from November 2-5, 2023, showcasing the groundbreaking projects and research reports of the competing teams.
Participating in the iGEM Competition offers students invaluable hands-on experience and education in synthetic biology, potentially opening up opportunities in related careers and fields, including computational biology, animal and marine sciences, and medical professions.
| Format | In Person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Awards |
| Program Dates | February 2023 to November 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | August 31th, 2023 |
| Format | In Person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Awards |
| Program Dates | February 2023 to November 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | August 31th, 2023 |
International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
The International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a premier competition that invites high school students across the world to showcase their skills and innovative ideas in the realm of science and engineering. This national competition is organized by the Society for Science, a non-profit organization that has been managing ISEF for over six decades.
ISEF features 21 distinct categories. The diversity of these categories ensures that a vast spectrum of scientific interests is covered, from marine sciences to space exploration, offering students a platform to excel in their chosen fields.
To qualify for ISEF, students from grades 9-12 must first participate and win at a Regeneron ISEF-affiliated local or regional science fair. These competitions are held throughout the year, culminating by early April. The participants are required to present research that doesn’t exceed 12 months of continuous work and not performed more than 18 months before the Regeneron ISEF in which they compete.
Every year, over 600 individual and team awards are presented at the Regeneron ISEF. The winners of the first, second, third, and fourth places in each category receive cash prizes of $3,000, $1,500, $1,000, and $500, respectively. Additionally, the top winner of the Regeneron ISEF receives a generous award of $75,000.
By participating in ISEF, students not only compete for prestigious awards but also gain invaluable hands-on experience in their chosen fields. This makes ISEF a fertile ground for budding scientists and engineers, and an ideal platform to nurture the leaders of tomorrow in STEM fields.
| Format | In Person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash and Awards |
| Program Dates | Ongoing until November 8th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | November 8th, 2023 |
| Format | In Person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Cash and Awards |
| Program Dates | Ongoing until November 8th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | November 8th, 2023 |
💡Bonus tips in choosing the right academic programs:
Learn More
If you’re a high school student interested in learning more about the best biology competitions for High School Students, we encourage you to attend a free online information session.
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