If you’re a high‑school student who’s done or is doing original STEM research, the Regeneron Science Talent Search is the competition to know. Founded in 1942 and now sponsored by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, this competition has been described as “the nation’s oldest and most prestigious science competition for high school seniors.”  

But prestige alone isn’t enough. Applying well to the STS requires thoughtful preparation, strong research, and strategic positioning. Here’s a guide to what STS is, who should apply, how it works, how to stand out and how to decide whether it’s the right fit for you.

What is STS and why does it matter?

The Regeneron STS is an annual competition that invites U.S. high‑school seniors to submit an original, independent research project in science, mathematics, or engineering. Finalists are awarded significant prizes (including $40,000‑$250,000 for top prizes) and recognition.  

For students applying to top universities (or future STEM careers), being an STS semifinalist or finalist can be a standout achievement: it signals not just talent, but initiative, depth and durability. Winning or even being a scholar can help your college applications.

Who should consider applying?

This is not a competition for “let’s try a science fair” or “I’ll do a small project in a month.” It’s for you if you fulfill the following requirements:

• Are a high‑school senior (U.S. citizen or resident) attending the last year of secondary school.  
• Have done independent research (often 6‑12+ months) in a STEM field, ideally with a mentor or lab.  
• Want to challenge yourself, are comfortable with rigor, and willing to publicize and present your work.
• Are prepared for competition with hundreds or thousands of applicants and very few spots (~300 scholars, ~40 finalists).  

If that doesn’t sound like you, don’t worry. But don’t apply.

Submitting a weak project or essay that doesn’t demonstrate real scientific thinking can actually work against you. Admissions officers may question your judgment, especially if your application seems to chase prestige without real preparation. Instead, consider using this year to:

• Build a meaningful research experience with a mentor.
• Enter more accessible competitions like Junior Science & Humanities Symposium (JSHS) or local science fairs.
• Work toward applying to STS next year (if you’re not a senior yet).

Remember: this is a competition for scientific maturity and depth. If you’re still growing into that, it’s better to wait and apply when you’re ready.

Key application details & timeline

Here are the basics you need to know:

• The application opens around June 1 and closes in early November (for the next year’s competition).  
• You’ll need to submit: the research report (up to 20 pages), essays, transcripts, recommendations, original work confirmation.  
• Judging is by Ph.D.-level scientists; projects are evaluated on originality, scientific rigor, creativity and potential.  
• Awards: In 2025 the competition awarded over $1.8 million in scholarships across approximately 2,000+ entrants.  

How to stand out: What separates strong applicants?

1. Research depth & originality: Your project must be your own. It should go beyond “I did a science‑fair experiment” and demonstrate genuine inquiry, methodology, data collection/analysis, and conclusion. Senior competitors are expected to show sophistication.  
2. Clear communication: You’ll submit not just data, but explanatory essays, your research story, and respond to interviewer questions (for finalists). Be able to articulate: Why did you pick this topic? What did you discover? Why does it matter?
3. Impact, thinking broadly: Judges look for more than just “I got X result”. They examine your scientific process, how you tackled obstacles, how you expanded thinking, and whether your work could be meaningful.  
4. Authentic STEM identity: Your profile needs to show sustained interest: related classes, prior projects, possibly internships or lab work. This competition is built around identifying future STEM leaders—not someone who simply “decided to try STS”.
5. Strategy & timing: Since your senior year is often packed (applications, finals, etc.), you must plan early: conduct research in junior year or summer, build your report ahead, secure mentors, prepare for the application cycle.

What does participation mean for your applications?

• Being a “top 300 scholar” or a finalist adds a distinctive credential that signals you’re among the elite in research at the high‑school level.
• Colleges will notice not just that you entered STS, but how deeply you engaged: Did you present? Publish? Attend a lab? Did the project evolve?
• Even if you do not win the grand prize, the process of doing substantial research, writing a professional report and going through the jury process stands on its own.
• But beware: relying solely on a “competition win” isn’t enough. Your broader academic record, extracurricular depth, leadership and fit still matter.

Should you apply? A decision checklist

Ask yourself:

• Am I a senior this year? (If not, you can begin preparing now.)
• Do I already have research underway or can I begin one with real depth before November?
• Can I commit time this fall to craft the application, polish the report and secure mentor recs?
• Could I explain clearly and confidently why my project matters and what I’ll do next?
• Do I want to highlight my STEM research identity in college applications and does this competition align with my goals?

If you answered yes to most, applying makes sense. If you answered “not yet” to several, you may consider using this year to build your foundation and aim for next year.

Final thoughts

The Regeneron Science Talent Search isn’t just a “trophy” competition. It’s a platform for students who are serious about STEM research, who enjoy asking hard questions and diving deep into projects, and who want to show colleges and themselves what they’re capable of.

Take the time to build meaningful research, communicate it well, and present yourself as someone who doesn’t just engage in science—but inhabits it. If you do, STS can be a transformational experience.

Need help shaping your STS strategy? At AtomicMind, our expert mentors support students from research topic selection to report drafting, mock interviews and college‑application alignment. Let’s work together to turn your research into a standout application.

About the Author: Vicky holds a PhD in History from Princeton University andearned her BA in English at UCLA. She brings over two decades of experience ineducation, and as Head Advisor at AtomicMind, she guides students with insight,care, and academic rigor. Vicky is passionate about empowering young minds todiscover their passions and achieve their full potential.