High School State Fair

FAQs

• Can I update my project between the Regional and the State Fair?

  You can continue working on your project, but you cannot add any new procedures. You can repeat trials, but not try to test something in a new way. You must stay consistent with your research plan that was reviewed and approved by the SRC committees. Fixing up slides and graphs is fine and even encouraged!

   

  You cannot rename your project or change categories for judging after the Regional Fair.

• What are the required components for State Fair competition?

  The following items are required for State Science & Engineering Fair participation and should be brought to the Fair

  • Display Board – freestanding (tri-fold or table top easel)
  • Final Lab or Project Report (also called Research Paper)
  • Lab or Project Notebook
  • Prepared Oral Presentation

  Your zFairs profile should already have your:

  • Project Abstract
  • Approval on required forms. Only Form 1C and Form 7, if applicable, need to be printed and displayed. See more information below.

  This guide has more information and hyperlinks about these components. 

  Note: No exhibit may be larger than 122cm wide X 76 cm deep X 274 cm high from the floor (48in x 30in x 108in). If the exhibit will be set on a table, the height cannot exceed 198 cm (78in) above the table. No oversized projects will be permitted. 

  Morning Safety Checks: Volunteers will visit each project before judging begins to ensure all team members are present and that each project complies with display rules and materials.

  Project Display Guidelines: There are rules that should be followed for what you can bring to the exhibit hall for your display. Make sure you review the guidelines in the HS Manual. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in removal of some of your display or even disqualification so it is important to be familiar with these rules.

• What is a continuation project and should I have a form 7?

  For students who have participated in a project in past years, please consider if you need form 7 completed. Its full title is “Continuation/Research Progression Project”. Sometimes this form is needed even if this year’s project is distinct from last years.  This form is designed to clearly outline those differences.  It is not saying that you are just continuing to work on the same old project, but rather you have progressed forward with your research which is a valuable experience in STEM.  You will need to bring a copy of Form 7 as well as a printed copy of your previous research plan.

• Does MSEF Offer Scholarships?

  Yes! MSEF is committed to supporting your future by partnering with schools and organizations across Massachusetts to offer tuition scholarships, college courses, and summer programs.

  Summer Program Scholarships will open in the Spring, allowing students to explore exciting STEM opportunities during the summer. 

  Tuition Scholarship Applications will open in the Fall, giving students time to align their applications with their college plans.

  Before attending the State Fair, please review the available opportunities in zFairs and make your selections:

  • For scholarships, only select those where you intend to apply to the university.
  • For summer programs, only select those you are available to attend.

   You may update your selections until the Tuesday before the fair.