Cary Students Advance to State Science Competition, ISEF Berths on the Line

A group of students from Cary cleared the regional round of science competition earlier this month, earning the right to compete at the state level with a shot at one of the most prestigious stages in high school science.

The regional victories, which came ahead of the March 12 competition date, position these students as contenders for berths at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, known as ISEF. The annual event draws competitors from more than 60 countries and is widely regarded as the world's largest high school science competition, offering college scholarships, internships, and in some cases, recognition from major scientific institutions.

Advancing beyond the regional round is itself a significant achievement. Regional science fairs draw entries from schools across the area, and only the highest-scoring projects earn the right to move on. For Cary students, that means their work will now be evaluated alongside competitors from across North Carolina before any path to the international stage opens up.

ISEF selection runs through the state competition, where judges assess the scientific merit, originality, and presentation of each project. Projects that advance carry not just individual recognition but reflect the strength of science education programs in their home communities.

The state competition now stands between these Cary students and a place on that international roster.