The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is an annual, global science video competition for high school students. Students between ages 13 and 18 from countries across the globe are invited to create and submit original videos (2:00 minutes in length maximum) that bring to life a concept or theory in the life sciences, physics, or mathematics. The film can take any form: animation, talking head, documentary, dramatic reconstruction, whatever. It’s worth keeping in mind that video is a dynamic visual medium – using diagrams, simulations, physical demonstrations etc. is a lot more effective than standing in front of a blackboard talking. The submissions are judged on the student’s ability to communicate complex scientific ideas in engaging, illuminating, and imaginative ways.
One winner will receive a $250,000 college scholarship and a grant to the winner’s school of up to $100,000 to be used towards the school’s science program. The winner will also elect one teacher who has inspired the winner in the field of science or mathematics who will be awarded $50,000.
Location(s)
- Remote
Schedule
- Spring
Cost/Compensation
- Free
Eligibility Requirements
- Participants must be age 13 by April 1 of the contest year and not older than age 18 on October 1 of the contest year.
Deadline
- Applications are due late June
Application or Entry Requirements
- Complete the registration form
- Complete the application questionnaire
- Submit a video no longer than 2 minutes
- Review at least 5 other entries in the Peer-to-Peer review process or face disqualification.
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
- Registration opens in early April
Have other questions?
The Breakthrough Prize Foundation seeks to honor world-changing scientists, inspire a knowledge culture, and expand understanding of the Universe by sponsoring awards and events that celebrate and inspire significant scientific breakthroughs. Through funding from Yuri and Julia Milner, Sergey Brin, Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg, and Anne Wojcicki, the foundation sponsors the Breakthrough Prize--renowned as the “Oscars of Science”--as well as the Breakthrough Junior Challenge and the Breakthrough Initiatives.
