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NESA Virtual Science & Engineering Fair

Supercharge Your Middle School and Grade 5 Science Programs!

The NESA Virtual Science & Engineering Fair (NVSEF) is an exciting event that combines the authenticity of hands-on scientific discovery at your own local science fair with a virtual international competition connecting schools across the world. Now in its third decade, the NVSEF provides the perfect platform to share student research and ideas. Over 30,000 students from American and international schools worldwide have participated since 2002, fostering their passion for science and engineering. 

The NVSEF aligns seamlessly with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and fosters hands-on, inquiry-based learning and the development of scientific practices. Teachers can incorporate science fair projects into their school's existing science curriculum and regular lessons as project-based learning.

If you're already involved in a science/engineering fair at your school, take your journey to the next level with NVSEF. Celebrate the wonder of science and engineering with other international school students and teachers!

Learn more via the NVSEF Website and NVSEF FAQ. 

Why Participate

The NVSEF provides a collaborative, interactive online community that supplements and enhances the daily face-to-face interactions between teachers and students. In alignment with NGSS and Common Core State Standards, it supports inquiry-based learning and promotes deeper learning and critical thinking through a higher order inquiry format, which can increase student achievement.

Each school's NVSEF advisors are invited to participate in a free online training seminar, and the NVSEF staff are always available to assist and advise.

In the Words of Our Experts

Understanding is more than just knowing "things”. Students must be able to use their knowledge in authentic ways. The NVSEF requires students to put their science knowledge to use through a novel science investigation or to use engineering design to solve a problem. Dr. Eric BrunsellAssociate Dean, College of Education and Human Services, University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, and past NSTA Executive Board Member

A primary goal of the NVSEF is to expand students' knowledge of science and transform their science habits of mind, as well as provide a motivation for students to commit themselves to their research project and expand their options for potential career paths in science. Professor Mark SpaidCollege of Teacher Education and Social Work, Middle Georgia State University, and Co-Founder of the NVSEF

The Competition

Who Can Join

The NVSEF is open to students in Grades 5–8 at NESA Member Schools, as well as at member schools of CEESA, EARCOS, AISA, the Tri-Association, ECIS, MAIS, and AASSA.

Students compete in two divisions:

  • NVSEF Junior Varsity – Grades 5-6
  • NVSEF Varsity – Grades 7-8

NVSEF Junior Varsity

Grades 5-6

LEARN MORE

NVSEF Varsity

Grades 7-8

LEARN MORE

How It Works

The competition unfolds in three progressive rounds, running from November through May, designed to guide students from local project development to more advanced levels.

Round 1

NOV 10 - APRIL 10

Each school holds its own local science fair to select top teams that advance to Round 2.

Round 2

APRIL 12 - MAY 7

This round is entirely virtual. Teams submit their research reports, short team videos, and answers to four well-developed questions about their research process. Entries are judged online using a rubric that assesses understanding and analysis, background knowledge, use of scientific vocabulary, and communication of ideas. From approximately 80 finalists, the top 5 teams are selected.

Round 3

MAY 14 - MAY 25

This final round involves expert judges, led by Dr. Eric Brunsell from The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, who assess and rank the Junior Varsity teams. For the Varsity teams, Dr. Brunsell adds a final question to each team’s research, challenging students to revisit and enhance their work based on existing data. A team of nine scientists and engineers then ranks these teams.

How to Register

Per-school participation fee: US$1,500
Registration deadline: November 1

For questions, contact Dr. Stuart Fleischer: sfleischer@wbais.net

NVSEF Website | NVSEF FAQ

Register Your School

NVSEF Project Directors

Eric Brunsell

Eric Brunsell
Eric Brunsell
Dr. ERIC BRUNSELL is a leading voice in science education, currently serving as a professor at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. With a rich background in STEM teaching and curriculum development, he is renowned for his expertise in integrating the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) into classrooms, helping educators foster inquiry-based, student-centered learning.

Dr. Brunsell’s research focuses on effective science instruction, and he has authored numerous publications and books aimed at making science accessible and engaging for all students, including, Introducing Teachers and Administrators to the NGSS: A Professional Development Facilitator's Guide. His work has earned him a distinguished reputation as an advocate for innovative science education and a mentor to educators nationwide.

Stuart Fleischer

Stuart Fleischer
Stuart Fleischer
Dr. STUART FLEISCHER is an innovative educator and the initiative behind the successful NESA Virtual Science and Engineering Fair, serving as its Director and founder since 2002. As a science educator at the Walworth Barbour American International School in Israel, Dr. Fleischer is passionate about fostering global collaboration and hands-on learning through science. A “cross-pollinator” in Citizen Science programs, he has empowered students to engage with real-world scientific research and make meaningful contributions to their communities around the globe.
 
Dr. Fleischer’s dedication to creating dynamic, NGSS-aligned learning experiences has made him a leader in international science education and a champion for student-led inquiry.

NVSEF in The News