Texas Science & Engineering Fair

Texas A&M University

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FAQs

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. 

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.

When will the Finalist Handbook be available?
The Finalist Handbook will be available in February 2025.

What is the registration fee to compete in TXSEF?
The registration fee to compete in TXSEF is $50 per student.

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 2 – 3 business days to receive an invoice.

How does a Parent/Guardian pay registration fees?
If the school does not cover participation fees, a parent or guardian must pay the fee using a credit card. Credit card payment is required for registration to be considered complete. Finalists should select “Parent/Guardian” in the Registration Fees milestone and use the provided credit card payment link, which directs to a Texas A&M University payment portal. This link is available only in STEM Wizard. TXSEF receives daily accounting reports, and if the Parent/Guardian payment option is selected but no payment is recorded, the Registration Fee milestone will remain unapproved until the payment is received.

Am I required to submit a virtual board and project overview video?
Yes, every project 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.

What is the TXSEF Registration Deadline?
Deadline to register for TXSEF is March 4, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. (CST)

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 28, 2025
    • Student Check-In, Display & Safety: 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
    • Night at the ZACH: 6 – 9 p.m.
  • Saturday, March 29, 2025 (only finalists are permitted inside the building before, during, and after judging)
    • TXSEF Awards Ceremony: 7:30 – 9:00 p.m.
    • Poster Breakdown: 9:00 – 10:00 p.m.

Why are only finalists allowed in the building before, during and after judging?
On Saturday, March 29, 2025, 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.

Please visit the TXSEF schedule for more information. 


For TXSEF inquiries, contact the appropriate division below: