Competitions are a rewarding way to show your talents and grow, whatever your interests. Whether you’re into academics, the arts, or leadership, there’s something for you. Here are ten awards and competitions that high school students can aim for. Eligibility and details change year to year, so confirm the current information with each.
Why compete in competitions as a high schooler?
Competitions give you a structured way to develop your interests and build skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. They connect you with like-minded peers, mentors, and professionals, and they strengthen a college application by showing real achievement and drive.
ISEF is the largest pre-college science competition, bringing together top young researchers from around the world. High schoolers present original research across categories from chemistry to computer science, competing for cash prizes, scholarships, and recognition. Finalists get feedback from expert judges, build their research and presentation skills, and connect with the scientific community.
Want to learn how to win at ISEF from a 2022 grand award winner ($50,000)? Check out Rishab Jain’s video.
Organized by the Mathematical Association of America, the AMC tests mathematical problem-solving. The AMC 10 is open to students in grade 10 and below, the AMC 12 to grade 12 and below. Problems span algebra, geometry, and combinatorics, and high scorers advance to the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) and potentially the USA Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO).
Poetry Out Loud is a national recitation contest. Students memorize and perform poems from a curated selection, advancing through school, regional, state, and national rounds. It builds public speaking, stage presence, and a deeper appreciation for literature, and national finalists compete for scholarships.
This award recognizes students who show strong leadership and commitment to DECA, an international organization preparing future leaders in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. It celebrates members who excel academically while contributing to DECA through leadership roles, conferences, and projects.
The Emerging Leader Honor Award recognizes members who have been involved at the local, chartered association and DECA Inc. levels. These members are graduating seniors who have maintained at least a 3.2 cumulative grade point average, completed at least one course in marketing, business management and administration, entrepreneurship, finance, or hospitality and tourism and participated in a variety of activities that helped them become community-oriented, professionally responsible and experienced leaders.
DECA
Membership in the NSDA Honor Society recognizes strong communication, critical thinking, and argumentation. Students earn points by competing in speech and debate events through local, state, and national tournaments. It’s good preparation for future work in law, politics, and communications, and offers a network within the debate community.
This global online competition invites students aged 13-18 to explain a concept in science or mathematics in a short, engaging video. A panel of scientists judges entries on creativity, clarity, and accuracy. The winner receives a $250,000 college scholarship, $50,000 for a teacher, and up to $100,000 toward a science lab for their school. It’s a great fit if you can make a complex idea simple and compelling.
This program recognizes academically talented students through the PSAT/NMSQT. High scorers advance from Commended Students to Semifinalists and potentially Finalists, competing for scholarship awards. Winning a National Merit Scholarship provides financial support for college.
Run by the U.S. House of Representatives, the Congressional Art Competition invites high school students to submit original artwork to their congressional district’s contest. Winning pieces are displayed in the U.S. Capitol for a year. It’s open to high schoolers across the country and is a strong way for visual artists to gain recognition.
9. Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
These awards showcase talent in visual arts, poetry, short stories, and more. Participants are recognized at the regional and national levels, and national recognition opens doors to scholarships and exposure within the arts community. It’s one of the longest-running and most respected recognition programs for young artists and writers.
Check out this guide on how to win gold at the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
FIRST puts high school teams through a dynamic, game-based engineering challenge each year. With mentors from industry, teams design, build, and program robots to compete, advancing to national and international championships. Beyond the technical skills, it builds leadership, teamwork, and a STEM community.
Final thoughts
Competing in high school isn’t just about winning. It’s about growth, exploring your interests, and building real skills. Pick something that fits your passions and go for it.
Want more programs, competitions, and opportunities? Get Rishab’s free list of 50+: rishabacademy.com/guide.
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