Massachusetts Science & Engineering Fair - MSEF

💬 “Engaging with really talented youth brings such joy and optimism.”
— Multi-year MSEF Judge

“You’re not just evaluating a project, you’re encouraging someone at a formative moment.” ✨
— First-time MSEF Judge

These reflections from last month’s High School State Fair offer a glimpse into what it means to be a Science & Engineering Fair judge.

There is still time to get involved! We’re recruiting STEM professionals to join us for the Middle School State Fair on May 9 at Clark University.

One day. Real impact—for students, and for you.

As we welcome the Science Fair Season alumni of 2026, we’re proud to celebrate alumni from seasons past like Dhruv.

Dhruv's science fair journey shows what’s possible when curiosity meets collaboration. What began as two separate projects became a powerful partnership when Dhruv and a classmate realized they were asking the same big question. Together, they used machine learning to explore how movement, economics, and public health intersected during COVID‑19, refining their work through thoughtful judge feedback.

That experience sparked a lasting interest in MedTech research. This spring, Dhruv is graduating from UW‑Madison with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering and will pursue a Master’s in Electrical Engineering at Northeastern University, specializing in micro‑devices—continuing a path that began at science fair. To our newest alums: your journey is just beginning, and we can’t wait to see where it takes you.

As we say - Once a Science Fair Kid, always a Science Fair kid.

Today’s the day.
Hundreds of students. Months of work.
Let’s GO!

Day 1 – Final Countdown
The rooms are setup and ready to go!
Tonight - rest up.
Tomorrow the DCU Center will come alive, is going to be something special!
Incredible projects. Thoughtful conversations. A chance to inspire—and be inspired.
We’ll see you at the crack of dawn!

❄️ Snow today.

Sun and 60 degrees on Fair Day. ☀️

Massachusetts doing its thing.

In 2 days, students from across the state will step forward to present research they’ve spent months developing. 📊

We can’t wait to see them shine!

🔬🚀 Hearing from students throughout their research journey—and at the Fair—is what fuels our work and reminds us why this matters.

We hear how ideas start to take shape—how students move from “I have an idea” to “I know how to explore it.”

We hear how feedback and guidance help them find direction, refine their thinking, and follow through.

And we hear the shift in confidence when something clicks—when an idea becomes something real!

This is what opportunity looks like 💙

Our volunteer judges show up not just to evaluate projects, but to encourage, question, and engage with students in a meaningful way.
“In a world that can feel overwhelming, spending one day encouraging young scientists is a powerful act of optimism.” - Participating Judge
One day truly can make a lasting impact.

“I don't think I've enjoyed teaching as much as when I work with kids for the science fair.”
— Participating teacher, Springfield
When students are given the space to ask their own questions, explore their ideas, and take ownership of their learning—something shifts.
And teachers feel it too.

🧠 What if memory loss could be slowed?
🤖 What if robots could feel?
🌿 What if nature already holds the key to preventing kidney stones?
⚡ What if energy systems could power themselves?
🚀 What if space changes how our bodies keep time?

What if? That’s where every project starts.

These questions didn’t stay questions.

They became months of research, testing, and discovery—by students across Massachusetts.

Next Thursday, they take the stage!

Science fair season is underway—and we’re celebrating curiosity, connection, and student-driven discovery! 🎉
“Very impressive group of young, future leaders.” 🌟
We’re grateful for the judges who recognize the passion, rigor, and promise our students bring to science fair season—and for the opportunity to celebrate their learning together.

Thanks to the hundreds of judges who supported the Regional Fairs the past two weeks!