About this competition
SeaPerch is an entry-level underwater robotics program run by RoboNation. Students build a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) from PVC pipe, propellers, and motors, then compete in pool challenges that test navigation, obstacle courses, and mission tasks.
The barrier to entry is unusually low — a SeaPerch kit costs about $250 and a strong middle-school team can complete one in a semester. Despite the low cost, SeaPerch is taken seriously by college admissions readers because it signals genuine ocean engineering interest, not generic "STEM."
Season & deadlines
Regional events run February through May; check regional coordinator for registration windows.
Season window: September through May.
Cost
$250–$600 — SeaPerch kit ~$250, plus event fees and travel to regional pool.
Prizes & outcomes
Regional and international competition placings
Prep resources
- Official rules and game manual · website