# Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair

Minnesota's statewide research competition where middle and high schoolers who advance from regional fairs present original STEM projects in St. Paul, competing for awards and spots at the International Science and Engineering Fair.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Minnesota Academy of Science |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | $100 |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | St. Paul, MN |
| Apply | https://www.mnmas.org/2026-state-science-fair-details |

## About this program

# Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair

The Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair (MSSEF), run by the Minnesota Academy of Science, is the state's premier research competition for middle and high school students. Each year, hundreds of students from across Minnesota qualify through regional science fairs, then present original scientific research and engineering projects to STEM professionals at the state fair in St. Paul — the 2026 fair was held March 27 at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium.

## What You'll Do

- Conduct an original science or engineering research project, individually or in a team of up to three
- Compete at your regional science fair to qualify for the state fair
- Submit a project presentation video and materials through the zFairs registration platform
- Present your work in person to judges from Minnesota's STEM community during a full day of judging, enrichment activities, and networking
- Compete for prestigious awards, scholarships, and special prizes

## Who Should Apply

Minnesota middle and high school students who enjoy independent research. Registration for the 2026 fair was $100 for individual projects ($180 for 2-person teams, $240 for 3-person teams), and scholarships covering the fee are available through regional directors.

## Outcomes

Students gain authentic research and presentation experience, feedback from professional scientists and engineers, and awards recognition; top high school students are selected to represent Minnesota at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF).

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair cost?

Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair costs $100. Many paid programs offer need-based financial aid or fee waivers — check the official site before ruling it out.

### Who is eligible for Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair?

Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair online or in person?

Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair is an in-person program based in St. Paul, MN.

### How do I apply to Minnesota State Science & Engineering Fair?

Apply directly through Minnesota Academy of Science'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: 2026-07-06.
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