# CSAW High School Forensics Competition The CSAW High School Forensics Competition, hosted by NYU Tandon, is a prestigious STEM opportunity designed for high school students interested in cybersecurity and digital forensics. This program challenges students to analyze digital evidence and solve complex forensic problems in a competitive environment. Open to grades 9-12, this free program offers participants the chance to showcase their skills and compete for recognition in the field of cybersecurity, with finals held at NYU Tandon in New York City. ## Program Structure The CSAW High School Forensics Competition is a hybrid program that combines virtual and in-person components. Participants begin by competing in online qualifying rounds, where teams analyze digital evidence and solve forensic puzzles. Finalists are then invited to NYU Tandon for an immersive, in-person experience during the competition’s final round. The program spans several months, starting with an application or registration process, followed by the qualifiers. Students who advance to the finals will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with NYU faculty, cybersecurity professionals, and other talented peers in a rigorous competition environment. ## What Students Experience Participants in the CSAW High School Forensics Competition gain hands-on experience in the field of cybersecurity, specifically in digital forensics. Students work individually or in teams to analyze real-world scenarios involving digital evidence, such as encrypted files, suspicious network activity, or compromised systems. Throughout the competition, students build critical skills in problem-solving, analytical thinking, and teamwork. Finalists who attend the in-person event at NYU Tandon benefit from direct engagement with cybersecurity experts and exposure to cutting-edge research in the field. This program not only sharpens technical skills but also fosters deeper insight into the growing field of cybersecurity forensics. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in the CSAW High School Forensics Competition demonstrates a student’s passion for STEM and cybersecurity, making it a valuable addition to college applications. The program highlights advanced technical abilities, problem-solving skills, and a capacity to excel in collaborative and competitive environments. Furthermore, engagement with NYU Tandon, a renowned institution in engineering and technology, adds credibility to a student’s profile. Finalists have the added distinction of competing at NYU, showing commitment to academic and extracurricular excellence in STEM fields. ## Eligibility The CSAW High School Forensics Competition is open to high school students in grades 9-12 across the United States. No prior experience in cybersecurity or forensics is required, though an interest in STEM and problem-solving is highly encouraged. ## How to Participate To participate, students or teams must register for the competition through the CSAW website, hosted by NYU Tandon. The application process typically involves completing an online registration form. Deadlines for registration and qualifying rounds vary, so it is important to check the program’s website for the most up-to-date information. For more details and to apply, visit [CSAW High School Forensics Competition](https://csaw.engineering.nyu.edu/).