Ultimate List of Data Science Competitions for High Schoolers

Data science competitions are a great way for high schoolers to build real skills in data analysis and machine learning, and they open doors to networking and recognition. Whether you’re new to it or already coding, here are six platforms worth entering. All of them are free to join, and most run competitions on a rolling basis, so check each site for current deadlines.

1. Kaggle

Kaggle is the best-known data science platform, hosting competitions across machine learning, predictive analytics, and more. You compete against a global community, learn from shared notebooks, and get access to datasets for practice. Competitions range from beginner to expert, so there’s something for every level. Free, online, ongoing.

2. DataCamp

DataCamp blends learning and competition, which makes it a good entry point. You apply concepts from its courses to real-world problems, building practical experience as you go. Cash prizes on some competitions. Free, online, ongoing.

3. DrivenData

DrivenData runs competitions focused on social, environmental, and public health problems, so your work can have real impact. The challenges involve complex datasets and realistic scenarios. Cash prizes. Free, online, ongoing.

4. MachineHack

Similar to Kaggle, MachineHack hosts competitions in predictive modeling and analytics, with a collaborative community to learn from. A good place to keep practicing and competing. Prizes vary. Free, online, ongoing.

5. BitGrit

BitGrit focuses on solving real-world problems with data science and AI. Its competitions test your analytical skills and often have a societal angle, with cash prizes. Free, online, ongoing.

6. AIcrowd

AIcrowd partners with companies and academic institutions to host competitions that push the limits of AI and data science. You can work on complex problems across many domains and gain experience alongside industry researchers. Cash prizes. Free, online, ongoing.

Final thoughts

Those six platforms cover the best data science competitions open to high schoolers. For a related resource, the video below is an interview with an International Math Olympiad winner on how they prepare.