Student Newsletter

Science Fair Essentials: Experimentation, Paperwork, and Mentorship

Hi Future Innovators!

As you delve into your Science Fair projects, we’re here with practical tips to keep you moving forward. This edition focuses on key steps for success:

Planning and conducting your experimentation, testing, and data collection
Staying organized with paperwork and setting realistic deadlines
Building resilience through mentorship and reaching out for support when challenges arise

With these tools, you’ll be ready to bring your project to life and make a real impact!

Experiments and Data Collection

As you begin experimenting, keep in mind that access to a lab isn’t necessary for a winning project! Previous Science Fair winners have shown that success is all about resourcefulness. Judges appreciate ingenuity, so if you’re not working with restricted materials, feel free to think creatively about building materials or conducting experiments outside a lab setting. There are also many great project ideas that don’t require lab access, including data analysis, computer modeling, social science, or environmental studies.

Important Guidelines for Experimentation:

Create a Project Timeline: Use this Project Planning Template to organize your steps. Submit all required paperwork at least two weeks before starting experimentation to allow time for approval. Be sure to discuss deadlines with your adult sponsor.

Restricted Project Areas: Projects involving restricted areas (like chemicals or human subjects) must receive pre-approval before experimentation. Allow 10 school days for approval, and if you have questions, reach out to the Scientific Review Committee at src@scifair.com. Summer and international projects must follow this pre-approval process as well.

Project Notebook & Components: Use the 2025 Project Component Guides to ensure you’re including all required materials.

Document Everything: Be sure to fill out your project notebook as you conduct experiments—it’s an essential part of documenting your process! Whether a physical notebook or printable digital notes, make sure to record every step of your process, from experiment design to data collection.

Remember, plan ahead, stay organized, and reach out with questions. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to a successful project!

Paperwork Submission and Deadlines

Submitting your completed paperwork on time is essential to keep your project on track and meet all Science Fair requirements. Here’s how to make sure you’re ready:

Submit Early: Start filling out your paperwork as soon as you create your account in zFairs. Aim to submit your completed paperwork within two weeks to allow time for adjustments. Submitting early also helps keep your project timeline on track.

Pre-Approval for Restricted Projects: Projects involving restricted materials (e.g., specific chemicals or human subjects) need pre-approval before experimentation. Submit these completed forms at least 10 school days in advance. For more details, consult the Project Approval Decision Grid linked below, or email src@scifair.com with questions.

Use the Tutorial: Check out the HS zFairs Tutorial for guidance on setting up your account, filling out paperwork, and uploading documents to MAHS.zfairs.com.

Consult with Your Sponsor: Work with your teacher or school science fair representative to review your research plan. They’ll be your official sponsor and can help submit pre-approval paperwork if needed.

Important Deadlines:

December 15, 2024: Submission deadline for projects requiring Forms 3, 4, 5, or 6.

January 15, 2025: Final deadline for all other projects.

Final Checks & Communication: Ask your sponsor to mark your project “READY” on zFairs for SRC review. Check your email regularly for feedback from the Scientific Review Committee (SRC) regarding approval or necessary revisions.

Get Support with Your Project

Want support on your project this year?

Sign up for our Mentorship Program and get paired with a STEM professional or expert in your field of interest. They’ll provide guidance, support, and valuable insights to help you excel in your project. .

Spots are limited and matches are not guaranteed. This does not include lab access.

MSEF-Highlighted Opportunities

Be sure to check out these events and opportunities coming up. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions!

The 2024 MRS Fall Meeting & Exhibit, hosted by the Materials Research Society, will take place from December 1–6 in Boston, MA. It offers a platform for scientists and researchers to present their work on cutting-edge materials research and network with global leaders in the field.

We're looking forward to see you in during the 2025 Science Fair Season!

Follow us on Instagram for content and programming reminders. Want a chance to be featured on our Instagram? Click on this link for your submission!

@MassScienceFair

Martha Johnson

Student Programs Coordinator

mjohnson@scifair.com

Advancing science and engineering literacy since 1949, the Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair (MSEF) was founded by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences, MIT professors, and a group of pioneering K-12 science educators.

MSEF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.

Massachusetts Science + Engineering Fair | scifair.com