Calling all young STEM innovators
The Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Competition is the UK’s leading STEM competition for young people aged 11 to 18. It encourages students to investigate real-world problems, develop innovative ideas and showcase their STEM skills through creating an independent or team project.
Projects can cover a wide range of topics, from climate change and sustainability to healthcare, robotics and artificial intelligence. Finalists have the opportunity to showcase their work at The Big Bang Fair, one of the UK's largest celebrations of science and engineering.
The Big Bang Competition is now open for entries! Submit your STEM project until Friday 12 March 2027 at 4pm.
Awards and prizes
There are a variety of awards and prizes available. The top honours are UK Young Scientist of the Year, UK Young Engineer of the Year, and UK Young Technologist of the Year, supported by Siemens. Each overall winner receives a trophy and £1,000 in prize money. Additional category awards recognise excellence across different age groups and STEM disciplines, providing further opportunities for recognition and achievement. We also have a host of Special Awards supported by industry partners recognising excellence in a particular STEM topic.
The Big Bang Competition is an excellent way to inspire curiosity, raise aspirations and demonstrate the exciting possibilities available through STEM education and careers. The Competition is free to enter and is open to students in state-funded secondary schools, home-educated learners and community groups across the UK.
I found the entire experience incredible. I've learnt a lot. I'm very glad I've had this opportunity and to have been able to meet so many like-minded people.
— Pacha Pritchard, Big Bang UK Young Engineer of the Year 2024
800+
young people entered The Competition in 2026
<200
secondary school students were announced as finalists
12
UK regions celebrated through Competition award winners in 2026
81%
of students said entering The Competition made them want to do more STEM activities
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