FAQs

General

Is there a timeline for the event?: Yes, information on the timeline can be found here.
When will the judging take place?: In-person judging occurs between 9 am and 12 pm on April 1st. Virtual judging will be on March 31st between 11 am and 3 pm.
When will awards be given out?: Awards will be given out at the banquet on April 1st between 4:30 and 6 pm. If students compete virtually they will have their awards mailed to them in mid-April.
Are pictures and videos allowed?: Yes! If you take pictures or videos, please tag AISES in any posts. We love to see the event through your eyes.
Are there costs associated with participating?: No! There is no cost to register for NAISEF and additionally there is funding available to support students competing in the fair. If you would like to apply for funding you can do so here.

Volunteers

What can volunteers expect to be doing?: Volunteers may be doing any of a handful of activities, from helping students check in to directing the college and career fair folks to their tables. Volunteers will likely be helping primarily with set up/tear down of the event.
What time do I need to arrive?: Judges should arrive a bit before 9 am to ensure that they have time to get their rubrics, get signed in, and grab coffee if they would like. Volunteers should arrive about 10 min before their assigned time to get signed in and grab their shirt.
Are refreshments provided?: Yes! We will have some light refreshments for breakfast time, and will serve lunch and dinner. Please bring a refillable water bottle if possible to cut down on waste-there are water bottle refill stations on every floor.
Will I receive a parking pass?: Parking passes are not necessary for Saturday's events.

Parents

How can parents and sponsors help their students succeed?: Parents can help students by familiarizing themselves with the NAISEF application process and deadlines.
Who can sign up?: The fair is open to 5th-12th grade students. Students can compete in teams of up to 3, and at least 1 member of the team has to be American Indian/Alaska Native/ Native Hawaiian.
Can parents and family attend the fair?: Absolutely! We love to have students’ support networks present. Please note, however, that parents/family members will not be permitted in the room while judging is occurring.

Educators

Is this just a general science fair? Or are there divisions?: NAISEF has 2 categories with 4 subcategories each-you can learn more about that here. When students register they will select a subcategory and that determines what other students they are competing against as well as what prizes they are eligible for. Monetary awards vary from $750 to $2500. Additionally grand prize winners will be invited to represent NAISEF at the 2023 International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in May.
How can I help?: Helping students identify interests and passions helps a ton! Acting as a cheerleader or sounding board may also help students. If need be, assisting students in establishing relationships with local university staff might be necessary.
How can I get my students interested in participating?: We suggest helping students understand the broader implications of their research as well as outlining the perks may help get them motivated. It is also worth mentioning that the fair gives them opportunities to meet potential employers, network with colleges, win cash prizes, as well as serving as a potential resume builder!

Event Details

Where do I park?

The two main parking lots surrounding the event space (lots 10 and 6) will have open parking. If you are taking a bus, parking will be in a special lot, so please email Chloe Smith (csmith@aises.org) to get more information.

Parking Map

Are refreshments provided for the science fair participants?

Lunch and dinner are provided at the event.

Students

What prizes are available at the fair?: The answer to this question will depend on the division the project is in. Both Sr and Jr division participants have the chance to win cash prizes, though the amount will depend on the prize itself. In addition to this, 1 winner from each category for the senior division will be invited to represent NAISEF at the International Science and Engineering Fair.
Am I allowed to attend the event even if I'm not competing or bringing students?: Yes! Absolutely. We encourage all community members to attend and get involved. If you would like to judge or volunteer you can sign up here, but you are also more than welcome to attend to just view the projects.