SciFest  2026 competition launches

SciFest, Ireland’s largest and most inclusive second-level STEM fair programme, has announced its return for 2026, marking 20 years since the first SciFest STEM fair took place in 2006.

SciFest is celebrating two decades of supporting young people to explore STEM through curiosity-led investigation, creativity and problem-solving, and of creating a platform where students can present their work locally, regionally, nationally and even internationally.

Students can submit projects across a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physical and life sciences and technology. SciFest is free to enter and open to second-level students of all backgrounds and circumstances.

The SciFest@College fairs take place in regional venues nationwide, with successful projects progressing through the programme to the SciFest National Final later in the year, where finalists compete for top awards and opportunities to represent Ireland internationally. To take part in SciFest@College 2026, students should complete the online entry form via the SciFest website by 12 March.

The SciFest programme is supported through public funding from the Department of Education and Youth and a community of partnerships including Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific, EirGrid and Keenova.

Since 2006, SciFest has grown into a nationwide programme, with 16,000 students now taking part annually across 160+ local, regional and national fairs. For more information visit www.scifest.ie.

Dates and venues for 2026 SciFest@College