Are the judges’ scores confidential?
Yes! TXSEF scoring is confidential and only accessible to TXSEF designated officials.
What if my opinion differs from a judge?
TXSEF realizes that in any competition, differences of opinion about the judges’ interpretations may occur. It is the policy of TXSEF to support the interpretations and final decisions of the judges panel.
If I judged at a Regional Fair, can I judge at TXSEF?
Yes! If you served as a judge at a Regional Fair, you are eligible for TXSEF in a different division and category.
How can I participate in TXSEF?
To participate in TXSEF, students must first participate in a Regional Fair and advance to TXSEF. You can find the regional fair closest to you by visiting the “Texas Regional Fairs” located under the General Info tab.
How much is registration to compete in TXSEF?
The registration fee to compete in TXSEF is $50 per student.
If my school/district is paying for my registration, can I still complete my TXSEF registration?
Yes, if your school district is paying for your registration fee, you will need to click “School/District” as the payment option during registration. This will allow you to complete your registration without payment by creating a “$0.00 invoice. Once you have completed your registration, you will need to notify your teacher or the person responsible for payment.
How does a School/District pay registration fees?
School Districts will need to email [email protected] with a list of registered students they will be paying for. Please allow 1 – 2 business days to receive an invoice.
Am I required to submit a virtual board and project overview video?
Yes, every state finalist is required to complete a virtual board and project overview video.
Does TXSEF allow partial teams to participate?
Yes, if a teammate is unable to attend TXSEF, their fellow teammates can still participate in the event. However, we cannot assure that monetary awards will be distributed to all teammates if they were absent from TXSEF.
If a finalist cannot attend TXSEF due to a schedule conflict, can another student take their place?
Unfortunately, subs are not allowed as the project has been presented at various fairs. Per ISEF rules, you cannot change or modify a team project’s membership. The addition of another student to just present on someone’s behalf would fall under that category.
If my registration is incomplete and I show up to compete at TXSEF, what will happen?
If your TXSEF registration is incomplete and the registration deadline has passed, you cannot participate in TXSEF.
Are families allowed at TXSEF?
Yes! Teachers, parents, and families are welcome to join their finalist(s) during the following times:
- Friday March 22, 2024
- Student Check-In, Display & Safety: 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Night at the ZACH: 6 – 9 p.m.
- Saturday March 23, 2024 (only finalists are permitted inside the building before, during, and after judging)
- TXSEF Awards Ceremony: 7 – 9 p.m.
- Poster Breakdown: 9:45 – 11 p.m.
For more information on the TXSEF schedule, please visit https://txsef.tamu.edu/schedule/
Why are only finalists allowed in the building before, during and after judging?
On Saturday, March 23, 2024, only finalists, TXSEF staff, and judges will be permitted inside the building. This policy is in place to maintain fairness, impartiality, and the smooth operation of the fair. Students will be supervised by TXSEF staff and proctors who have been background checked and completed the mandatory training. Additionally, a Medic will be present on staff at all times to ensure the safety and well-being of participants.
What if a finalist doesn’t advance to Blue Ribbon?
Those who don’t advance to the Blue Ribbon round remain eligible for category awards, special awards and other distinctions, which will be presented during the Awards Ceremony.
What special awards will be given at TXSEF?
To see a list of special awards that will be offered, visit the Special Awards page.
