Students
Getting Started
Are you ready to learn through scientific research and meet students from across the state also interested in the same things as you? You have come to the right place! The Illinois Junior Academy of Science offers opportunities to make science fair accessible to every student.
While it may seem like a big undertaking, through this hands-on experience, guided by the help of videos, the policy and procedure manual, and your sponsor, you will be able to create a science fair project from start to finish and learn more about STEM in ways unimaginable! Will you be the next Albert Einstein, Marie Curie, or Isaac Newton?
More resources and information about starting your science fair project can be found under the "Students" tab above on this website!
Some Useful Resources
How-To Videos: View student-created videos describing the overall process of participation in IJAS Science Exposition here.
Policy and Procedure Manual: View more specific information on requirements and rules for projects here.
Endorsements and Required Forms: View updated abstract, safety, and endorsement forms here.
General Reminder: Every student must first submit a project at their Regional Exposition to participate at the State Exposition. If your school is not affiliated with an IJAS region, you may join an affiliated external organization to enter your project in the state exposition.
Help Sessions: Our bimonthly help sessions hosted on Zoom by the Student Board can be found here.
Contact Us: Email us at studentboardijas@gmail.com with any questions you have!
Upcoming Contests
All students whose schools are members of IJAS are eligible to participate in the contests below, in addition to the traditional poster and paper sessions. Please click HERE for information about getting involved in these contests!
Artistic Design Contest: Develop a design for the IJAS t-shirt based on this year's state fair theme!
Decal Design Contest: Design a sticker decal for the state exposition based on this year's theme!
Essay Contest: Explore a topic of your choosing in an essay related to the 2023-24 essay theme.
Senior Scholarship Application: Click here for application details!
Join the IJAS Student Board!
Does a financial barrier prevent you from completing a specific science fair project?
Be sure to take note of the information regarding the President’s Grant on page 34 of the Policy and Procedure Manual. This is an excellent opportunity to alleviate some of the financial restrictions that may result due to the cost of materials. You can apply by using this link.