Student Competition

Deadline Extended to May 16 to Enter Discovery Education's 3M Young Scientist Challenge

Grades 5–8 Can Submit Short Videos Explaining 'Unique Solutions to Everyday Problems'

• By Kristal Kuykendall
• 03/28/22

Middle-schoolers have a few weeks remaining to enter Discovery Education’s annual 3M Young Scientist Challenge, with entry open to students in grades 5–8 until May 16, 2022.

Students are invited to submit a 1- to 2-minute-long video describing their own idea for a “unique solution to an everyday problem,” according to the 3M Young Scientist Challenge page at YoungScientistLab.com.

The grand prize recipient will win a two-day trip, a $25,000 grand prize, and the title of “America’s Top Young Scientist,” Discovery Education said. Two runners-up will also win unique two-day trips; up to six honorable mention $500 excursion prizes will be awarded; one Improving Lives Award will be named and win a two-day trip; and 10 finalists will win $1,000 each and participation in a summer mentorship program with a 3M scientist

Additionally, up to 51 students will be named State Merit Winners and up to four students will be selected as grade-level honorable mention winners, with each receiving 3M Innovation Prize Packs, Discovery Education said.

Judging will be based on students’ “passion for science, spirit of innovation and ingenuity, and effective communication skills” within the videos submitted; students’ production skills will not be considered, Discovery Education said, and videos from cell phones or digital cameras are welcome.

The 10 finalists will be invited to an exclusive summer mentorship program with a 3M scientist, and each will have the chance to compete in the final competition in the fall at the 3M Innovation Center in Minneapolis, combining hands-on challenges, presentations, and live judging, Discovery Education said.

Visit the 3M Young Scientist Challenge YouTube Channel to view videos showcasing past winners and tips for students entering the challenge.

Students can enter online now until 8 p.m. EDT May 16, 2022, and must first submit a completed parental consent form, found on the challenge’s entry page. Find the official rules and judging criteria on the Young Scientist Challenge page at YoungScientistLab.com.