FAQ

Questions?
We've Got Answers.

Who is eligible to compete in SciFest 2027?

Any student currently enrolled in grades 5 through 12 at any school in New Jersey is eligible to compete, no invitation or prior connection to Robbinsville High School is required.

Can I compete as part of a group?

Yes. Groups of up to three students are permitted and strongly encouraged. All members must be enrolled in the same grade division and present as a single unit with one combined score.

Is there a limit on how many groups can register?

Not at this time. There is currently no cap on the number of presenting groups.

When does registration open?

Registration is open now, for individual and group presenters, school and club exhibitions, and nonprofit booths.

How much does it cost to present?

Presenter registration is $20 per group, which includes lunch for all group members. Payment is made online, there is no other way to pay.

Do I submit my abstract separately from registration?

No. Your abstract (150 to 250 words) is submitted as part of your online registration, not collected separately. Write and proofread it before you register.

What do I need to bring on the day of the event?

Bring your printed registration confirmation, it's required at check-in. Also bring your completed tri-fold board, business attire, and any supplementary materials.

What is the cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel a presenter, club, or nonprofit booth registration, you may request a full refund within 14 days of completing your registration. After 14 days, registration fees are non-refundable.

Which presentation category should I choose?

Choose the category that most honestly reflects your work. Original data and an experiment you ran is Original Experimental Research. Synthesizing existing papers is Literature Review & Analysis. Explaining a complex topic you've mastered is Topic Exploration & Explanation. Examining one specific event in depth is Case Study Analysis. Still unsure? Contact us before registering.

What exactly must my tri-fold display include?

A title panel, an introduction with your research question, main content appropriate to your category, supporting visuals, a conclusion, and consistently formatted references. Full specifications are on the Compete page.

What is the dress code?

Business attire is required for all presenters, dress shirts, blouses, slacks, skirts, or dresses, with closed toe shoes. If this presents a financial barrier, contact us in advance, accommodations will be made without question.

How does the judging process work?

Each presentation is assigned a number to minimize bias. Judges complete four rounds of judging across the day, swapping folders each round, then meet to discuss standout projects and finalize awards.

Can my club or organization have a booth even though we're not a presenter?

Yes. Science clubs and STEM related nonprofits can apply for exhibition or booth space separately from presenter registration, see the Register page.

Who can register a STEM nonprofit booth?

Any nonprofit organization in relation to STEM may participate, student run or not. The booth fee is $10, paid online.

Will I receive feedback on my presentation?

Yes. Judges are asked to leave written comments on every rubric they score. Feedback is available to competitors after the event upon request through the Contact page.

My school isn't in Robbinsville. Can I still compete?

Yes, SciFest 2027 is open statewide. Any student in grades 5 to 12 at any New Jersey school can register through the standard registration process. See the Schools Outside Robbinsville section of the Register page for more.

I'm not ready to register, can I still get updates?

Yes. The Register page has a newsletter sign-up that sends email updates to both a student and a parent or guardian, no commitment required.

Still Have a Question?

The organizing team typically responds within 48 hours.

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