Competing in the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a worthwhile goal for high school students worldwide. Before you can present your research, though, you have to complete the ISEF forms accurately. This guide walks you through each step so you can spend more time on the project itself.
Why ISEF Forms Matter
ISEF forms ensure your project meets ethical standards and safety regulations. They also give a clear outline of your research, methods, and findings for judges and reviewers. Properly completed forms can make a real difference in how your project is received.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Information
Before you start filling out forms, gather everything related to your project: your research plan, institutional approvals, and safety information. Having it all on hand makes the process faster. Some types of projects need additional forms, so plan for that early.
Step 2: Identify the Required Forms
ISEF requires different forms depending on your project. Here is the full list:
- Form 1: Checklist for Adult Sponsor/Safety Assessment Form
- Form 1A: Student Checklist
- Form 1B: Approval Form
- Form 2: Qualified Scientist Form
- Form 3: Risk Assessment Form
- Form 4: Human Participants Form
- Form 5A: Vertebrate Animal Form (for research at non-regulated sites)
- Form 5B: Vertebrate Animal Form (for research at regulated research institutions)
- Form 6A: Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents Risk Assessment Form
- Form 6B: Human and Vertebrate Animal Tissue Form
- Form 7: Continuation/Research Progression Projects Form
Check the ISEF rules and guidelines to see which forms apply to your project. You can find details on the ISEF Forms page and the ISEF Overview of Forms and Dates page.
Step 3: Complete Form 1 (Checklist for Adult Sponsor/Safety Assessment Form)
The adult sponsor helps ensure your project meets safety and ethical standards. This form asks for the project title, objectives, and a risk assessment. The sponsor should evaluate any potential risks in your project.
Step 4: Fill Out Form 1A (Student Checklist)
Form 1A covers your research plan and includes sections for your research plan/project summary, designated supervisor, and school information.
Step 5: Form 1B (Approval Form)
This form requires signatures from the student(s), a parent or guardian, and a school administrator. Each party signs to confirm they understand and approve the project. Get all signatures before submitting.
Step 6: Qualified Scientist Form (Form 2)
If your project involves potentially hazardous materials or procedures, a qualified scientist must oversee your work. This form asks for the scientist’s qualifications and supervision details, and the scientist should review and approve your research plan. It can help to find a mentor who can both guide the project and serve this role. Watch Rishab’s video to learn how to find a mentor.
Step 7: Risk Assessment Form (Form 3)
This form evaluates potential risks in your project. Include descriptions of any hazardous materials, devices, or procedures you’ll use, along with the safety precautions you’ll take. Be thorough so everyone involved stays safe.
Step 8: Human Participants Form (Form 4)
If your project involves human participants, complete this form. It requires informed consent documentation, any surveys or questionnaires, and IRB approval. Ethical considerations are essential when working with human participants.
Step 9: Vertebrate Animal Forms (Forms 5A and 5B)
If your project involves vertebrate animals, complete the appropriate form. Form 5A is for research at a non-regulated site, and Form 5B is for research at a regulated research institution. Provide details about the care and treatment of the animals to show ethical standards are met.
Step 10: Potentially Hazardous Biological Agents Risk Assessment Form (Form 6A)
If your research involves potentially hazardous biological agents, fill out Form 6A. It asks for details about the agents used, the level of risk, and the safety precautions you’ll take, including any necessary approvals from relevant authorities or institutions.
Step 11: Human and Vertebrate Animal Tissue Form (Form 6B)
For projects involving human or vertebrate animal tissue, complete Form 6B. It requires information about the source of the tissue, the collection methods, and any associated risks. Follow and document all ethical guidelines.
Step 12: Continuation/Research Progression Projects Form (Form 7)
If your project continues previous research, fill out Form 7. It requires a summary of the earlier work, including results and conclusions, and an explanation of how the current project builds on it. Highlight any new aspects or innovations in your current research.
Step 13: Review and Submission
Before submitting, review each form carefully to make sure everything is correct and complete. Missing or incorrect information can delay approval. Once you’re confident everything is in order, submit your forms to your fair’s Scientific Review Committee (SRC) or Institutional Review Board (IRB) as required.
Conclusion
Completing ISEF forms can feel like a lot, but with careful attention to detail and a clear understanding of the requirements, you can get through it. These forms exist to make sure your project meets high standards of scientific research and ethical conduct.
For personalized guidance on completing your ISEF forms and strengthening your project, consider joining sciencefair.io’s mentorship program, which includes coaching calls with past ISEF winners. Its A-Z science fair masterclass is designed to help students like you succeed at ISEF. With expert mentorship and thorough resources, you’ll be well on your way to your science fair goals.
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