Judges F.A.Q.
Q: What are the qualifications to be a judge? A: We ask that judges have at least a Bachelor's degree and experience in a STEM-related field, or a Bachelor’s degree in a STEM-related field and a current enrollment in a graduate program.
Q: What is the difference between a Category Award and a Special Award? A: Category Awards are awards that are given in every category and determine the projects eligible for ISEF. Special Awards are awards given by a company or professional organization using criteria unique to the organization giving the award. Most of our judges are Category Award Judges. When an organization sponsors a special award, they send their employees/members as Special Award Judges.
Q: When does judging start? A: We ask that judges arrive at the Expo Center at 7:30 am. There will be a continental breakfast and a short orientation before judges find their groups and begin reviewing projects. A box lunch is provided and interviews with students will be in the afternoon.
Q: What should I bring to the Expo Center for Judging Day? A: We ask that you bring something to take notes and a pen/pencil. We will have judging rubrics and a limited number of writing implements available for judges. We also recommend that you bring something that can act as a writing surface (clipboard, portfolio, etc.)
Q: Is there a dress code? A: We only ask that you dress in what would be considered “Business Casual”. IMPORTANT: You will be spending a good portion of your time standing and walking so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Q: How long do I need to stay? A: Once you have made your determination of winners, reported them to the floor coordinators and completed the student feedback forms, you are free to leave. The timing will be determined by the size of the category and the quality of the projects. Typically we have completed the judging around 4:30 pm but many judges will finish sooner.