The GATEway Science Fair is non-competitive. Participants explain their projects to a few different science professionals, and then receive written feedback, a certificate of participation and a t-shirt.

Students looking for the challenge of a competitive fair should consider entering one of the following regional fairs where ribbons and/or prizes are awarded. A student can participate in both the GATEway Science Fair and a regional fair. The student can use the same project for both events.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The Regional Science Fairs both follow the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) rules which require approval forms that must be completed BEFORE the student begins experimentation. See the following fair websites for the necessary rules and approval forms.

Rochester Regional STEM Fair:

Open to students in grades 6-12 who attend a school within the Rochester Public School District boundaries.

Sponsored through Rochester Community Education usually within a week or two before or after the GATEway Science Fair.

Southern Minnesota Elementary School Regional Science and Engineering Fair:

Open to students in grades 3-6 who are not participating in the Rochester Regional Science Fair.

Held at Minnesota State University-Mankato usually in April.