Regeneron Science Talent Search
Scholarship Sponsored by Society for Science
Regeneron Science Talent Search
Regeneron Science Talent Search (Regeneron STS) is the nation’s oldest and most prestigious pre‑college science research competition. It identifies, inspires, and engages high school students who conduct independent research in science, math, and engineering. Each year the program attracts approximately 2,600 applicants from across the United States and recognizes 300 scholars and 40 finalists. Selection is based on a holistic review of each applicant’s research, recommendations, essays, and other application materials.
Description: A national competition that emphasizes original, independent research by high school students and provides recognition, mentorship, and awards to promising young scientists.
- Annual competition focused on original high school research
- Approximately 2,600 applicants each year
- 300 scholars and 40 finalists are selected annually
Awards and Recognition
Regeneron STS distributes $3.1 million in awards annually to scholars and finalists, including a top prize of $250,000 for first place. Awards support both the students and their schools, amplifying the impact of student research. Finalists participate in an in‑person judging event in Washington, D.C., where they present their work and meet scientific and civic leaders. Alumni of the program have gone on to win major international and national honors.
Award Value: Total awards of $3.1 million annually, with a first‑place prize of $250,000 and additional prizes for scholars and finalists.
- $3.1 million in total awards each year
- First-place prize: $250,000
- Program alumni include recipients of Nobel Prizes, National Medals of Science, and Fields Medals
Eligibility and Selection
Regeneron STS is open to high school seniors in the United States who have conducted original, independent research during any year of high school. The competition evaluates candidates through a holistic review that considers the research report, recommendations, essays, activities, and other application materials. From the applicant pool, the program names scholars and invites 40 finalists to Washington, D.C. for final judging and public presentation of their work. All applications must be submitted online by the published deadline.
Eligibility: High school seniors in the United States who submit original research conducted during any year of high school; entry requires online submission.
- Open to U.S. high school seniors
- Research from any high school year is eligible
- Selection uses a holistic review process
Application Requirements
The application requires a detailed Research Report describing an original, independent project and must be submitted through the program’s online system. Applicants must provide recommendations, including an educator recommendation, a project recommendation, and a high school report or transcript. The application also includes personal and project sections, short essays, optional test scores, and mandatory disclosures of research support. All materials must be complete and submitted by the stated deadline for consideration.
Research Report: A description of an original, independent research project that meets the program’s eligibility criteria; guidelines are available through the program.
Recommendations: Three recommendation types are required: educator recommendation, project recommendation, and high school report (transcript).
- Educator Recommendation
- Project Recommendation
- High School Report (Transcript)
- Research Report is the central component of the application
- Three recommendations are required
- Optional test scores; disclosures of research support are mandatory
History of the Award
The competition began in 1942 as the Westinghouse Science Talent Search and has evolved into Regeneron STS while maintaining its focus on identifying future leaders in STEM. Over its decades‑long history, the program has supported students who have made significant contributions to science and mathematics. Many alumni have received the field’s highest honors, reflecting the program’s long‑term impact on scientific careers. The award continues to adapt while preserving its mission of encouraging independent research among high school students.
History of the Award: Founded in 1942 as the Westinghouse Science Talent Search; later sponsored by Regeneron and sustained as a premier high school research competition.
- Founded in 1942 (Westinghouse Science Talent Search)
- Long tradition of producing influential scientists and mathematicians
- Maintains a national reputation for excellence in pre‑college research