Student Observer Competition

We are pleased to announce that 8th grade students are eligible to participate in the Ritchey Science & Engineering Fair’s Student Observer Competition. This competition will select two students to travel to the Regeneron International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Phoenix, AZ in May. During the junior fair on March 26 at Weber State University, special judges will review projects of participating 8th grade students.

Judges will select two 8th grade students and one alternate to attend ISEF. Student Observers attending ISEF do not compete at the International Fair but accompany and assist the Finalists from the senior fair. They also participate in ISEF workshops and activities to learn more about science fair and improve their projects.

Weber State University and the Ritchey SEF’s generous sponsors pay all expenses for both senior fair Finalists and junior fair Observers to participate in official science fair activities at ISEF. WSU faculty and staff serve as chaperones at ISEF.

Parents of Finalists and Observers do not accompany students traveling to ISEF. Regeneron ISEF will be held during the week of May 10-15, 2026.

To be considered for this competition, students and their parent/guardian must pre-approve attendance for the entire week at ISEF. Please ensure that your student has filled out this Permission Form if they would like to be considered for this opportunity.