National Science Poster Competition
Students must demonstrate their artistic abilities as they translate the theme of the fair into a visual masterpiece.
The competition is open to high school students only and has two categories. Creative arts allow for conventionally hand-crafted entries. The artwork is displayed during Education Week.
Key Things to Know
The competition is open to one student per school high school.
This year's competition will focus on Creative Art. Creative art allows for conventionally hand-crafted entries and graphic arts for computer-generated entries. The artwork is displayed during Education Week.
One entry per category is permitted.
For creative art, you must be able to discuss the medium(s) utilized and your creative process.
Artistic expression is expected and encouraged, but the theme must always be at the forefront of your piece.
Feel free to mix mediums to achieve a unique artistic style.
Poster display size requirements are matte paper sized 16.5" x 21.5" for Creative Art.
All entries must be clearly labeled with the following information:
Student’s full name
School
Category (Creative Art)
Project boards should sit on top of your table or on an easel.
Displays should be mounted at booth on the evening preceding, the first day of the fair.
The student is allotted a maximum of 10 minutes to present their project.
Only the student will answer questions from the judges. Students should also be prepared to present to guests and the public.
Important Dates
November 9, 2026 - Release of the official 2027 Pelican Energy TCI National Technology and Science Fair event theme to participating students for artwork development.
November 16, 2026 – Registration Deadline for participants. Register here.
January 15, 2027 - Deadline for schools to replace any previously registered team member.
March 3, 2027- National Science Poster Competition (Closed Judging Segment)
March 4, 2027 - Posters must be displayed during the National Science Fair public exhibition alongside poster entries from other competitions.
What inspires your vision?
Inspiration can come from anywhere and strike at any time. It can be something as simple as a leaf blowing in the wind or something as dramatic as a major world event. Use what you observe in your creation and translate the theme into something representative of your artistic style.
Prizes
The winning artwork receives a $100 monetary prize for the school and the student receives a $100 Gift Card for art supplies and a special participant bag.