The Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) is one of the most prestigious science and math competitions for high school seniors in the United States. It has launched the careers of many notable scientists, engineers, and innovators, and it offers substantial scholarships along with recognition that opens doors to top universities and research opportunities.
This guide covers what the Regeneron STS is, how the competition works, strategies for building a winning project, and examples from recent winners. Details change year to year, so confirm the current rules and dates on the official site.
Understanding the Regeneron Science Talent Search
What is the Regeneron STS?
The Regeneron STS is an annual competition that asks high school seniors to carry out original scientific research. It’s managed by the Society for Science. Each year, around 1,800 students enter, 300 are named Scholars, and the top 40 become Finalists who compete in Washington, D.C. for the top scholarship awards.
History and legacy
The competition dates back to 1942. It was originally sponsored by Westinghouse, then Intel, and Regeneron took over as title sponsor for the 2017 competition. Over the decades its alumni have included Nobel laureates, Fields Medalists, and other leading researchers.
Structure of the competition
- Submission: students submit a research project, including a research paper, application essays, recommendation letters, and academic records.
- Scholars: the top 300 entrants are named Scholars.
- Finalists: from the 300 Scholars, the top 40 are chosen as Finalists and present their research to a panel of judges.
- Final judging and awards: Finalists compete for the top awards, including substantial scholarships. First place is $250,000.
Why the Regeneron STS matters
Recognition in the Regeneron STS brings both financial rewards and a strong boost to a college application and early career. It signals real dedication, creativity, and scientific ability, which is why it’s so highly regarded.
How to win the Regeneron Science Talent Search
Winning takes careful planning, execution, and presentation. Below are strategies to help you build a strong project and navigate the application.
1. Start with a unique and impactful research topic
Your topic sets the foundation for the whole project. Aim for something original that addresses a real problem and has the potential for genuine impact.
- Personal connection: pick a topic you’re genuinely interested in. It keeps you motivated through a long research process.
- Emerging fields: explore areas with less existing research but high potential for innovation.
- Interdisciplinary approaches: combine fields to find a fresh angle on a problem.
Example: Connor Hill (2026, 1st place)
Connor Hill won first place and $250,000 in 2026 for finding a way to identify all the possible “noble polyhedra,” highly symmetric shapes with flat faces and straight edges. It shows that a deep, original math result can take the top award, not just applied-science projects.
2. Do a thorough literature review
A solid literature review helps you understand the current state of your field and spot the gap your project can fill.
- Use multiple sources: academic journals, conference papers, and reputable databases.
- Stay current: follow the latest journals and conferences in your field.
- Network with experts: reach out to professionals and academics for insight and advice.
3. Prototype and iterate quickly
Don’t aim for perfection at the start. Build quick, rough prototypes to test the core idea, then iterate based on what you learn.
- Start simple: use basic or everyday materials for early prototypes to move faster.
- Iterate quickly: test, learn, and improve in short cycles.
- Document everything: keep detailed records of each iteration. They’re invaluable when you write your paper.
Example: Selina Zhang (2024, 8th place)
Selina Zhang built an AI-powered tree to combat the invasive spotted lanternfly. She used simple materials and rapid iteration to refine her prototype, showing how practical and effective a hands-on approach can be.
4. Document your work meticulously
Good documentation is essential both for writing your paper and for the judging process. Keep thorough records of your process, experiments, and findings.
- Digital lab notebooks: tools like LabArchives or Evernote keep your notes organized and accessible.
- Regular updates: set aside time to update your records so nothing slips.
- Detail everything: record procedures, results, and any deviations from your plan.
5. Communicate your findings clearly
Your paper and poster should communicate your findings and their significance clearly, concisely, and in a logical order.
- Use a structured format: abstract, introduction, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion.
- Seek feedback: ask teachers, mentors, or professionals to help you refine it.
- Sharpen your scientific writing: workshops and online courses can help.
Example: Nathan Wei (2024, 4th place)
Nathan Wei synthesized ultra-high molecular weight plastics and presented his findings with clarity, highlighting the practical implications of his work.
- Mock presentations: present to different audiences to build confidence and gather varied feedback.
- Know the judging criteria: tailor your presentation to what judges look for.
- Use visual aids well: they make complex ideas easier to follow.
6. Get peer and mentor feedback
Input from peers, teachers, and mentors throughout the project surfaces blind spots and points to improvements.
- Mock judging panels: simulate the real judging with teachers and fellow students.
- Regular check-ins: meet with your mentor to discuss progress and tackle challenges.
Insights from recent winners
Recent top finalists show the range of research that wins. Here are the top three from 2026:
Connor Hill (1st place, $250,000)
Connor identified all the possible “noble polyhedra,” a deep result in computational mathematics on highly symmetric shapes with flat faces and straight edges.
Edward Kang (2nd place, $175,000)
Edward developed AI models to screen for neurodevelopmental disorders using images of the eye, a neuroscience project with real diagnostic potential.
Iris Shen (3rd place, $150,000)
Iris tested a potential cancer drug in clams to see whether they could serve as an animal model for blood cancer drug discovery.
Resources to win science fairs
Rishab Jain, who won the Regeneron Young Scientist Award at ISEF, has succeeded across many research competitions. For students eager to start, Rishab offers science fair coaching, through which multiple students have placed at STS. Sign up and get started today.
There’s also a YouTube playlist on how to do research, where Rishab shares his winning strategies for going deeper into STEM and succeeding at science fairs.
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