Regeneron ISEF vs Regeneron STS: Which Program Is Right for You?
Same sponsor, different games: ISEF is the world-championship science fair you qualify for through affiliated regional fairs (any grade); STS is a seniors-only national talent search judged on a written research paper and its author. Juniors aim at ISEF; seniors with finished research enter STS.
Below is a live side-by-side comparison of Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) and Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS), built from ExtracurricularHub's verified catalog.
| Regeneron ISEF | Regeneron STS | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | Free |
| Application deadline | March 15, 2027 | November 5, 2026 (verified July 4, 2026) |
| Grade eligibility | Grades 9–12 | Grade 12 |
| Format | Hybrid — Various (rotates annually) | In-person — Washington |
| Organizer | Society for Science | Society for Science |
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
Compete in the world's largest pre-college STEM competition. Present original research and compete for millions in awards and scholarships.
Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)
Most prestigious pre-college science research competition in US. 40 finalists compete in DC. Top prize $250,000. Many winners become major scientists.
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Regeneron ISEF or Regeneron STS?
Both are free: neither Regeneron ISEF nor Regeneron STS charges a participation fee. Budget only for travel or materials if the program is in person.
Can I apply to both Regeneron ISEF and Regeneron STS?
Yes — applying to both is common and there's no penalty. Selective programs reject strong applicants routinely, so treating Regeneron ISEF and Regeneron STS as one combined chance is the smart strategy. Track both deadlines and reuse essay material where the prompts overlap.
Which is better for college applications, Regeneron ISEF or Regeneron STS?
Neither is automatically "better" — admissions readers care about what you did there, not the logo. Same sponsor, different games: ISEF is the world-championship science fair you qualify for through affiliated regional fairs (any grade); STS is a seniors-only national talent search judged on a written research paper and its author. Juniors aim at ISEF; seniors with finished research enter STS. Pick the one whose work you'd actually finish, and go deep.
What grades can apply to Regeneron ISEF and Regeneron STS?
Regeneron ISEF: grades 9–12. Regeneron STS: grade 12. Eligibility can shift between cycles — confirm on each program's official page before planning your year around it.