About this competition
The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) is a research presentation competition for U.S. high-school students in grades 9-12, sponsored by the Department of Defense in partnership with academic research institutions. Students present original research projects in STEM categories ranging from biomedical sciences to engineering to mathematics.
The competition runs through 48 regional symposiums (held at universities Feb-March) that send finalists to the National JSHS in April. Top oral presentations win $4,000-$12,000 in undergraduate scholarships. Strong fit as a sibling competition to ISEF — many students compete in both with the same research project.
Season & deadlines
Regional registration November-January. Regional symposiums Feb-March. National JSHS in April.
Season window: November through April.
Cost
Free — Free for finalists. DoD funds travel for advancing students.
Prizes & outcomes
Regional: $1,000-$2,000. National oral presentation: $4,000-$12,000 in scholarships. Top 5 finalists travel to the London International Youth Science Forum.
Working on a JSHS research presentation?
Science Fair Research Mentorship is forming the next pilot cohort. Join the interest list — no commitment, no payment, we'll reach out personally.