# National Science Bowl Middle School Division

The Department of Energy's fast-paced quiz-style science and math competition: middle school teams (grades 6-8) of four students face off at roughly 50 regional tournaments for a trip to the National Finals in Washington, DC.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–8 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Multiple States |
| Apply | https://science.osti.gov/wdts/nsb/Regional-Competitions |

## About this program

# National Science Bowl Middle School Division

The National Science Bowl is a nationwide academic competition run by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science since 1991. In the middle school division, teams of four students (plus an alternate) and a teacher-coach answer rapid-fire buzzer questions across biology, chemistry, Earth science, physics, energy, and math. Approximately 50 middle school regional Science Bowl tournaments are held each year, and each regional champion earns an all-expenses-paid trip to the National Finals in Washington, DC - scheduled for April 29 to May 3, 2027.

## What You'll Do

- Form a school team of four students, one alternate, and a teacher who serves as advisor and coach
- Drill buzzer-style questions in all branches of science and mathematics
- Compete in a fast-paced verbal question-and-answer forum at your assigned regional tournament
- Advance to the multi-day National Finals if your team wins its regional

## Who Should Apply

Students enrolled in grades 6, 7, or 8 at the team's school (homeschool teams are also accommodated under the official rules). Ask a science or math teacher to register a team for your assigned regional event when registration opens in the fall.

## Outcomes

Competitors sharpen recall, teamwork, and depth across every science discipline, and regional champions travel to Washington, DC for the National Finals. The Science Bowl is one of the most visible academic honors a middle school team can earn, with DOE-sponsored recognition at every level.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for National Science Bowl Middle School Division?

National Science Bowl Middle School Division is open to middle school students in grades 6–8. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is National Science Bowl Middle School Division online or in person?

National Science Bowl Middle School Division is an in-person program based in Multiple States.

### How do I apply to National Science Bowl Middle School Division?

Apply directly through U.S. Department of Energy Office 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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