STEM comprises learning math, coding in the classroom, solving problems, building things, and using your skills to make a real difference. One of the best ways for students to grow in science, technology, engineering, and math is by joining STEM competitions.
STEM competitions go beyond winning prizes to help students learn teamwork, problem-solving, creativity, and communication. These skills prepare students for real jobs in the future.
Across the world, students of all ages are stepping into these challenges. They design robots, solve real-world problems, create apps, and even launch mini satellites.
Why STEM Competitions Matter for Students
STEM competitions teach lessons that cannot always be learned from books. When students take part in these contests, they learn how to think deeply, test ideas, fail, try again, and keep improving. They also learn how to work in teams, manage time, and solve problems under pressure.
A report by ExploraVision shows that students who join STEM contests are more likely to develop strong problem-solving and leadership skills. They also gain confidence and a clear understanding of how STEM careers work in real life.
First LEGO League (FLL)
This is one of the most popular STEM competitions for kids and teens. Students form teams to design, build, and program robots using LEGO kits. Each year, there is a new real-world problem to solve. Teams must research the issue, come up with solutions, and present their ideas to judges.
According to FIRST, the nonprofit that runs this program, more than 679,000 students from over 100 countries join each year. The competition helps students learn coding, engineering, teamwork, and presentation skills.
Google Science Fair
The Google Science Fair is a global online competition open to students aged 13 to 18. It invites young minds to come up with creative solutions to real-world problems.
In the past, winners have designed affordable medical devices, clean energy solutions, and even apps to help people with disabilities. The competition encourages curiosity and real-world problem-solving. It teaches students how to think like scientists and innovators.
Technovation Girls
Technovation Girls is a global competition for girls aged 10 to 18. It challenges them to create mobile apps that solve problems in their communities. Along with coding, the girls learn entrepreneurship, project management, and how to pitch their ideas to judges. Edufun Technik in 2018 mentored girls who won the Technovation award.
Technovation has supported over 39,000 girls worldwide, helping them gain confidence in tech fields where women are often underrepresented. As Tara Chklovski, founder of Technovation, once said, “Our goal is to empower girls to become leaders and creators, not just users of technology.”
African Code Challenge
The African Code Challenge is for young coders across Africa. Students create fun and educational games using coding tools like Scratch. It promotes creativity, logical thinking, and digital skills.
This competition is supported by SAP Africa Code Week, which aims to make coding fun and accessible to students in African countries.
International Space AND STEAM FunFest Competition
The International Space and STEAM Funfest is an annual competition for Nigerian students aged 7-25, designed to inspire young innovators to explore space sustainability through engaging STEAM challenges.
This year’s theme, “Innovating for Space Sustainability,” challenges participants to develop solutions in two key areas: recycling for space exploration and sustainable living in space. The competition offers substantial rewards, including ₦2,000,000 in total cash prizes, digital certificates, and cutting-edge space and STEAM kits.
VEX Robotics Competition
The VEX Robotics Competition is one of the largest robotics contests in the world. Students design and build robots to compete in games that change every year. The competition is fast-paced and requires creative engineering and quick thinking.
The REC Foundation, which runs VEX, reports that students learn mechanical engineering, coding, teamwork, and critical thinking. It prepares students for real careers in engineering and technology.
Microsoft Imagine Cup
For older students, especially those in university, the Microsoft Imagine Cup is a global challenge where teams build tech solutions to address social problems. From healthcare apps to AI-powered tools, the competition pushes students to be creative developers.
Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
ISEF is one of the biggest science fairs in the world for high school students. Every year, thousands of students present research projects in fields like biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science.
The competition offers scholarships, awards, and even the chance for students to have their research published. It prepares young scientists to work in labs, research centers, and universities.
NASA Space Apps Challenge
This is a 48-hour global hackathon where students, developers, scientists, and engineers come together to solve space and Earth-related problems using NASA’s open data.
Students learn how to collaborate quickly, use real scientific data, and develop creative solutions to big problems like climate change, space exploration, and disaster response.
The Impact of These Competitions on Real-Life Skills
Students who join STEM competitions do not just learn coding, building, or research. They develop skills that are needed in every job. These include communication, teamwork, time management, leadership, and creative problem-solving.
When students present their projects, answer judges’ questions, or redesign their robots after failure, they are building the confidence and persistence that employers look for.
How to Get Started
Many schools and communities now have STEM clubs that prepare students for these competitions. You can check with your teachers, community centers, or local nonprofits like Edufun Technik STEM Foundation for support.
Most of these contests also have websites where you can register, download challenge guides, and start preparing your projects.
Students do not need to be experts. These competitions are designed to help you learn, try new things, and grow with the help of mentors and teammates.
Conclusion: Your Future Starts with a Challenge
STEM competitions are more than contests. They are stepping stones to a future where students become problem solvers, leaders, and change-makers. Whether you love coding, engineering, science, or math, there is a challenge out there waiting for you.
By joining, you do not just win prizes. You gain skills that last a lifetime.
