# AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students

Student teams design and build a small car powered by a chemical energy source to travel a set distance while carrying a load.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE) |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 2026-09-09 |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Check official site |
| Apply | https://www.aiche.org/students/chem-e-car |

## About this program

Chem-E-Car is a hands-on engineering competition in which student teams design, build, and test a small, shoebox-sized car powered solely by a chemical energy source. The car must safely start and stop using chemical reactions, and teams are challenged to make it travel a specified distance while carrying a given payload. The competition emphasizes chemical reaction design, control, safety, and practical engineering problem-solving.

The **official AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition** is primarily designed for university students and is run at regional and national AIChE conferences around the world. Some local high schools participate through outreach events or unofficial divisions hosted by nearby universities or AIChE student chapters, but there is no standardized global high school division. For interested high school students, the main benefits are exposure to real-world chemical engineering, teamwork, safety practices in the lab, and early experience with experimental design. Students typically participate via local programs, mentoring partnerships, or adapted high school versions rather than directly in the main AIChE collegiate competition.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students cost?

AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### What is the application deadline for AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students?

The application deadline is September 9, 2026. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students?

AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students online or in person?

AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students is an in-person program.

### How do I apply to AIChE Chem-E-Car Competition for Students?

Apply directly through American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)'s official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-04.
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