California Science & Engineering Fair:
Frequently Asked Questions

Communication

• How can I contact the California Science & Engineering Fair?

Qualifying for the Fair

• How can I qualify for the California Science & Engineering Fair?
• Are Team Projects allowed?
• There is no CSEF-affiliated fair in my area. How can I qualify to participate in CSEF?
• The CSEF-affiliate in my area didn't let me participate in it. How can I qualify to participate in CSEF?

Applying to the Fair

• How can I get an application? Answer: Qualified students will be sent a link to their applciation.
• What are this year's deadlines?
• I'm one of three on a Team Project. Do we each have to pay the Application Fee?
• One of my Team Project members can't come to the Fair. Does he/she still have to submit an Application?
• In my county fair I was in category X, but CSEF doesn't have that category. What category should I choose?
• Can I submit my Application electronically?
• Can I pay the Application Fee electronically?
• I'm an "alternate." When do I submit an application?
• What about Application Fees for alternates?

After the Application

• I've submitted my application. When should I expect to hear back as to whether or not I'm accepted?
• How do I add new research results to my Project Summary after submitting my application?
• I paid my Application Fee but I can't go to the Fair. Can I get my money back?

At the Fair

• I can't be there on Monday. Can someone else set up my project?
• What should I wear? (And why?)
• How will the judging work?
• I have to be someplace else during the judging. Can I get interviewed remotely or at a different time?
• What do judges really expect?
• Can my friends come, too?
• One of my Team Project members can't come to the Fair. Can we still be judged?
• How are ISEF Finalists selected?

After the Judging

• Is there a public viewing time?
• What should I wear to the Awards Ceremony? (And why?)
• When can I take my science project away?