# Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science

Pennsylvania's statewide research competition for grades 7-12: students present original science projects orally to judges at winter regional meets, with first-award winners advancing to the May State Meeting at Penn State.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 7–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | University Park, PA |
| Apply | https://pjas.org/rules-eligibility/ |

## About this program

# Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science

The Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science (PJAS) is a statewide organization of junior and senior high school students designed to stimulate and promote interest in science through original research. Students conduct their own investigations in one of twelve scientific research categories, then defend the work in oral presentations before judging panels - first at winter regional competitions across the state, and, for first-award winners, at the annual State Meeting held each May at Penn State University Park.

## What You'll Do

- Conduct your own research project in one of PJAS's twelve categories, spanning the physical, biological, behavioral, and computer sciences
- Find an adult sponsor - a teacher, parent, or scientist - as required for participation
- Present your research orally to a team of judges at your regional competition (held January through early March)
- Advance with a first award to the multi-day State Meeting at Penn State each May, competing for awards and scholarships

## Who Should Apply

All Pennsylvania students in grades 7-12 - public, private, parochial, and home-schooled. Students must do their own research and give their own presentations. Most students participate through a school's PJAS sponsor; regional registration typically happens in fall and early winter.

## Outcomes

PJAS trains thousands of Pennsylvania students each year in the full research-and-defense cycle used by professional scientists. State Meeting participants experience presenting on a university campus, and top students earn awards, scholarships, and nomination opportunities toward national recognition.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science?

Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science is open to students in grades 7–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science online or in person?

Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science is an in-person program based in University Park, PA.

### How do I apply to Pennsylvania Junior Academy of Science?

Apply directly through Pennsylvania Junior 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: 2026-07-28.
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