The Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) and the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) are both prestigious science competitions for high school students, but they have some key differences:1
Regeneron STS:
- Eligibility: Open to high school seniors only.
- Application Process: Application-based, involving submission of a research paper and application packet.2 No in-person competition until the final round.
- Evaluation Focus: Holistic assessment of the student's overall scientific competence, including research, academic achievement, and potential for future scientific leadership.3
- Judging: Judges evaluate the submitted materials, not a physical project display.
- Emphasis: More like an academic fellowship or scholarship competition.
ISEF:
- Eligibility: Open to high school students of all ages (grades 9-12).4
- Application Process: Requires participation in and winning at local and regional science fairs affiliated with ISEF.5 Culminates in an international competition.
- Evaluation Focus: Primarily on the research project itself and its presentation (visual and oral).
- Judging: Judges evaluate the project through a physical display and interviews with the student.
- Emphasis: More like a traditional science fair.
Here's a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Regeneron STS | ISEF |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | High school seniors | High school students (grades 9-12) |
| Application | Application-based | Requires participation in affiliated fairs |
| Evaluation | Holistic (research, academics, potential) | Primarily project and presentation |
| Judging | Based on submitted materials | Based on project display and interview |
| Nature | Fellowship/scholarship competition | Science fair |
In essence:
- STS is a more selective and prestigious competition that focuses on identifying the most promising young scientists in the US.6
- ISEF is a larger and more inclusive competition that celebrates student research and innovation on a global scale.7
It's worth noting that students can participate in both competitions with the same research project if it meets the requirements of each.
