The Hawaii State Science & Engineering Fair (HSSEF) is the state-level science and engineering competition for Hawaii’s students. Hosted by the Hawaii Academy of Science, with support from sponsors including Hawaii Dental Service, it gives students a place to present their research, compete at the regional and state levels, and qualify for national and international fairs.
About HSSEF
HSSEF has a track record of students who went on to do well at the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF). It’s a real test of your science and problem-solving, not just a display.
- Categories: HSSEF covers engineering, biological sciences, physical sciences, behavioral sciences, mathematics, computer science, and more, so there’s room for a wide range of interests.
- Qualification: Students qualify through local and regional science and engineering fairs across Hawaii, which feed into the state competition.
- Competition: Participants present their research through display boards and oral presentations. Judges, who are experts in their fields, score on methodology, results, conclusions, and presentation.
Check the official website for current dates and rules.
Categories
- Engineering and Technology
- Biological Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Behavioral and Social Sciences
- Earth and Environmental Sciences
- Mathematics and Computer Sciences
- Translational Medical Sciences
- Plant Sciences
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Cell and Molecular Biology
HSSEF also runs educational workshops and webinars on project development, presentation skills, scientific methods, and collaboration, where students can learn from experts and build their skills.
How to qualify
Getting to HSSEF starts with registering and working through the required steps: creating a project account, submitting forms, and understanding your regional fair’s process.
- Middle school:
- Compete in a local or regional science and engineering fair.
- Present your research project.
- Follow the project approval, Scientific Review Committee (SRC) approval, and registration steps to advance to HSSEF.
- High school:
- Do thorough research and experimentation.
- Compete at the local or regional level.
- Follow the rules for project details, display boards, videos, and review to qualify for HSSEF.
How to succeed
- Start early. Give yourself time for data collection and analysis.
- Choose the right category. Pick one that fits your project and interests.
- Know the judging criteria. Judges look at thoroughness, creativity, relevance, and presentation.
- Practice your presentation. Rehearse until you can explain your work clearly and confidently.
- Be original. A unique topic or approach stands out.
- Show real-world impact. Explain where your research could actually be applied.
- Keep it feasible. Plan a project you can complete with your resources and skills.
- Follow the method. Use the scientific method or engineering design process.
- Make a clear display. Your board should communicate your methodology, findings, and conclusions at a glance.
- Prioritize safety. Follow safety protocols throughout.
Advancing to national and international fairs
Top projects at HSSEF can qualify for national and international science and engineering fairs, including ISEF. If you advance, follow the official ISEF rules and guidelines for that year so your project meets the standards expected at the international level.
Conclusion
HSSEF is a strong proving ground for Hawaii’s young scientists and a real path toward bigger competitions. If you’re curious and willing to put in the work, it’s well worth entering.
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