The New York City Science and Engineering Fair (NYCSEF) is the city’s largest high school research competition, jointly organized by the NYC Department of Education and the City University of New York (CUNY). It invites students from public, charter, and many private and parochial high schools across the five boroughs to present original research projects in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, computer science, environmental science, and more. Participants typically develop an independent or mentored research project, submit an online application with a research paper and abstract, and, if selected, present their work at the preliminary round held in New York City. Top projects advance to the citywide finals, where students present to panels of judges from academia and industry. High-performing finalists can earn scholarships, special awards, and the opportunity to represent New York City at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). NYCSEF offers students authentic research experience, feedback from expert judges, and exposure to STEM pathways in college and beyond.