14 Psychology Competitions for High School Students
- Stephen Turban
- 7 hours ago
- 12 min read
If you're interested in psychology, competitions can be a great way to explore the subject beyond the classroom while testing your knowledge and analytical skills. These opportunities span cognitive psychology, neuroscience, mental health, behavioral science, and psychological research, allowing you to engage with the field from diverse perspectives. They can also help you develop skills in research, critical thinking, scientific writing, and evidence-based argumentation.
Why should I participate in a psychology competition in high school?
Psychology competitions allow you to apply what you learn to real questions about human behavior, cognition, mental health, and decision-making. Depending on the competition, you might analyze research studies, write essays, design research proposals, complete knowledge-based assessments, interpret psychological data, or present original ideas and findings. These experiences can help you deepen your understanding of psychology, explore potential academic interests, and gain exposure to the types of work commonly undertaken in psychology and related social science fields.
To help with your search, below is a list of 14 psychology competitions for high school students.
If you’re looking for online summer research programs, check out our blog here.
Key takeaways
These competitions span knowledge-based assessments (IPsyO, International Brain Bee), independent research (Regeneron STS, Neuroscience Research Prize, SARC), and essay writing (Minds Underground, John Locke Institute), giving students different ways to engage with psychology.
Several competitions focus specifically on mental health advocacy and lived experience, including the International Bipolar Foundation Teen Change-Maker Essay Contest, the NIMH's Speaking Up essay contest, and MindSpeak, which emphasize personal reflection alongside research.
Most competitions are free to enter, including IPsyO, the APA TOPSS Video Competition, Regeneron STS, and the Carl C. Bell Memorial Award, while only SARC involves a tiered registration cost.
Some competitions are highly selective with multi-stage qualification processes, such as the Future Psych Scholars Competition (requiring transcripts or prior research) and Regeneron STS (narrowing thousands of applicants to 40 finalists).
A few competitions are geographically restricted, including the Carl C. Bell Memorial Award (Illinois students only) and Columbia State High School Psychology Competition (southern Middle Tennessee region), while most others welcome global participation.
Location: Virtual (global participation)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive; 2,000+ participants annually across 80+ countries
Program Dates: Global Test: July 11; Final Round: July 25–August 1 (research module July 25–31, final exam on August 1)
Application Deadline: July 1
Eligibility: High school students worldwide
The International Psychology Olympiad (IPsyO) is a global competition for high school students who want to test their understanding of psychology. The material is at the introductory college level, covering psychological theory, research methods, and real-world applications. The competition tests you in a few different ways. You need to know the theory, think critically about it, and apply psychological concepts to actual scenarios. You might analyze case studies, interpret research findings, or solve problems related to cognition, behavior, and mental health. The format pushes you to develop both analytical skills and the ability to use what you know in context.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free; $300 awards for top winners
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive; individual submissions only
Program Dates: Annual cycle; submissions due March 20
Application Deadline: March 20
Eligibility: High school students worldwide (individual entries only)
The APA TOPSS High School Psychology Video Competition is a research-based contest where you create a short video explaining a psychology concept using real scientific evidence. The latest theme focuses on artificial intelligence and learning, requiring you to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of AI through a psychological science lens. This involves applying concepts from cognition, memory, or intelligence to real-world scenarios. To participate, you produce a video (up to 3 minutes) that includes a real-life example, definitions of key psychological constructs, and a summary of at least one published research study. You are also expected to critically evaluate the research and propose future questions or ethical recommendations related to AI and learning.
Location: Virtual + Finals Week in Washington, D.C.
Cost: Free; awards include significant cash prizes (top award up to $250,000)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Extremely selective; ~2,000 applicants, 300 scholars, 40 finalists
Program Dates: Application closes in fall; Top 300 announced January 7; Top 40 announced January 21; Finals Week March 5–11
Application Deadline: Typically November (application reopens June 1 for the next cycle)
Eligibility: U.S. high school seniors conducting independent scientific research
The Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) is the most prestigious and longest-running science research competition for high school students in the United States, making it a standout option if you are interested in psychology research. You submit an original, independent project that demonstrates rigorous methodology, critical thinking, and real-world relevance. Many successful entries explore topics in cognitive psychology, behavioral science, or neuroscience. The competition follows a highly selective, multi-stage evaluation process. From thousands of applicants, 300 students are named Scholars based on the quality of their research, academic performance, and leadership. From this group, 40 finalists are invited to Washington, D.C., for Finals Week, where you present your work to expert judges, participate in interviews, and engage in public exhibitions.
Location: United States (submission-based)
Cost: Free; awards and recognition from the American Academy of Neurology
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; 10 finalists selected
Program Dates: Annual cycle (dates vary)
Application Deadline: Not specified (varies annually)
Eligibility: U.S. high school students (grades 9–12); individual research projects only
The Neuroscience Research Prize, organized by the American Academy of Neurology, is a specialized competition where you submit an original research project focused on the brain and nervous system. Your project must demonstrate a clear connection to neuroscience, including neurophysiology, behavior, cognition, or neurological disorders. This makes it particularly relevant if you are interested in the intersection of psychology and biology. You are evaluated on multiple criteria, including the originality of your research question, the rigor of your methodology, and your ability to interpret and present data effectively. Your written report must clearly communicate your hypothesis, experimental design, results, and conclusions, reflecting strong scientific writing and analytical skills.
Location: Virtual (UK-based organization; global participation)
Cost: Free (may vary by entry route); awards and recognition
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive; selective progression through Olympiad rounds
Program Dates: Round 1: February 8; Round 2: February 22; Essay Submission Deadline: April 3
Application Deadline: April 3
Eligibility: Primarily Year 12 students (equivalent to Grade 11), though open to other high school students
The Minds Underground Psychology Essay Competition is an academically rigorous writing competition where you explore complex psychological questions through structured, research-based essays. You choose from prompts that require you to analyze topics such as intelligence, personality, or experimental design, encouraging you to engage deeply with psychological theory and current debates. You can participate either through the multi-round British Psychology Olympiad pathway or by directly submitting an essay. The essay component requires you to demonstrate strong analytical thinking, independent research, and the ability to construct well-supported arguments—skills that closely mirror university-level psychology work.
Location: Virtual competition with an annual meet in Washington, DC
Cost: Typically free or low-cost (varies by region)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; 25,000+ participants annually across 50+ countries
Program Dates: November 6- 11 (tentatively)
Application Deadline: Varies by local chapter
Eligibility: High school students worldwide
The International Brain Bee (IBB) is one of the most established neuroscience competitions for high school students, designed to test your understanding of the brain and nervous system. You begin at the local level and, if you qualify, advance to national and then international rounds, competing against top students from around the world. The competition covers areas such as neuroanatomy, cognition, behavior, and neurological disorders. As you progress, the format becomes increasingly rigorous, including live questioning, case-based problem solving, and practical applications of neuroscience concepts. You are expected to demonstrate both detailed knowledge and the ability to apply concepts in clinical or research-based scenarios. This multi-tiered structure ensures a high level of selectivity and academic challenge.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Not specified; awards include Gold, Silver, and Bronze recognition
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Extremely selective; limited slots (e.g., ~30 via PARA + additional selective pathways)
Program Dates: Registration: September 1 – December 31; Finalist announcement: January 15; Submission: January 29; Results: February 20 (estimated)
Application Deadline: December 31
Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students worldwide (multiple qualification pathways required)
The Future Psych Scholars Competition is an advanced, research-focused psychology competition where you develop and present a formal research proposal on an assigned topic. Unlike standard essay contests, this competition mirrors the structure of university-level research, requiring you to design a study, define methodology, and explain the expected contributions of your work. To qualify, you must demonstrate prior academic proficiency in psychology through transcripts, research papers, or competitive assessments, making the entry process highly selective. If selected as a finalist, you are given a limited timeframe to prepare both a written research proposal and a 7–10 minute presentation explaining your study. This test not only tests your research skills but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively.
Location: Virtual (final conference and awards in London)
Cost: Free (late submission fees apply if applicable); prizes up to $10,000 in scholarship funds
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Extremely selective; thousands of global submissions
Program Dates: Registration: February 2 – March 31; Submission deadline: May 31 (extensions available); Awards: October
Application Deadline: March 31 (registration), May 31 (submission)
Eligibility: Students worldwide under 19 years of age
The John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize is one of the most prestigious international writing competitions for high school students, with a dedicated psychology category that explores complex questions about human behavior and cognition. You select one prompt, such as topics on mental health, identity, or social trends, and develop a structured, evidence-based essay that demonstrates deep critical thinking and originality. Your essay is evaluated by a panel of senior academics from leading institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Princeton, and Stanford. The judging criteria emphasize depth of knowledge, clarity of reasoning, originality, and persuasive argumentation.
Location: Virtual (global participation)
Cost: Varies by registration tier; awards and recognition
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive; multi-stage selection with global finalists
Program Dates: January–May (research, submission, and final evaluation phases)
Application Deadline: Varies (early bird and regular deadlines in January–February)
Eligibility: High school students worldwide (individual participation)
The High School Academic Research Competition (SARC) is a flexible, research-driven competition where you can explore any topic of your choice, including psychology. You design and conduct an independent research project, allowing you to investigate areas such as cognition, behavior, mental health, or social dynamics in depth. This open-topic format gives you significant autonomy in shaping your research question and methodology. The competition follows a structured, multi-stage process that includes proposal submission, qualification rounds, and a final video pitch. You are evaluated on the strength of your research design, analytical thinking, and ability to clearly present your findings. Throughout the process, you also have access to bootcamps and webinars that help you refine your research and presentation skills.
Location: Virtual (U.S.-based organization; global participation)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; three scholarship winners ($1,000, 500, 250) chosen each cycle
Program Dates: Prompt released late fall; essays due early in the new year; winners announced in February
Application Deadline: Announced each year (typically January)
Eligibility: Current high school students in grades 9–12 worldwide
The International Bipolar Foundation Teen Change‑Maker Essay Contest is a mental‑health‑focused competition. It asks you to reflect on how your own experiences and initiatives have helped create a more supportive environment for mental health at school and in your community. You write a 500–1,000‑word essay in response to a specific prompt on youth mental health leadership, then record a brief 30‑second video introducing yourself and explaining why mental health matters to you. The competition emphasizes empathy, self‑reflection, and practical impact, and three high school winners receive $1,000, $500, and $250 scholarships.
Location: Virtual (United States)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; multiple winners and up to ~30 finalists share a $7,000 prize pool
Program Dates: Recent cycles have opened in spring, with winners announced later in the year
Application Deadline: Varies by year; deadlines and registration posted on Challenge.gov
Eligibility: U.S. high school students aged 16–18
The “Speaking Up About Mental Health! This Is My Story” Essay Contest asks you to examine how mental health challenges affect young people and what prevents many from getting support when they need it. Sponsored by the National Institute of Mental Health and other NIH institutes, the contest focuses on stigma, access to care, and the social barriers that shape how mental health is discussed across communities. You submit a short essay describing the challenges you or people around you may face while also proposing realistic ways schools, families, or healthcare systems could improve support for young people. Winning entries receive cash awards from a shared $7,000 prize pool and recognition from federal health agencies connected to mental health research and policy.
Location: New Jersey, USA (virtual submission; in‑person recognition event)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Highly selective; limited number of middle and high school winners statewide
Program Dates: Recent cycle accepted entries from October 1 – December 20, with winners honored at a Youth Mental Wellness Fair in early February
Application Deadline: Varies by year (typically December)
Eligibility: Middle and high school students (grades 6–12) enrolled in New Jersey schools
The MindSpeak Youth Mental Health Essay Competition invites you to write about how mental health shapes the experiences of young people at school, at home, and within their communities. Organized by Shivs Third Eye, the competition encourages essays that move through topics like stress, identity, stigma, friendship, anxiety, or ideas for improving emotional support systems for teenagers. The format gives you flexibility to combine personal storytelling with reflection, advocacy, or outside research, depending on the direction you want to take. Winners receive cash prizes and letters of recognition from public officials, especially making the contest meaningful for students connected to New Jersey communities.
Location: Illinois (virtual submission; recognition through the Illinois Psychiatric Society)
Cost: Free
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Selective; first, second, and third place winners chosen from statewide entries
Program Dates: Annual; submissions for the current cycle are due May 15
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: High school students enrolled in Illinois
The Carl C. Bell, MD Memorial Award Essay Competition, hosted by the Illinois Psychiatric Society, is a psychology‑adjacent contest where you analyze mental health topics through the lens of community, resilience, and stigma. This year’s prompt asks you to evaluate how constant connectivity in a 24/7 digital world can both promote engagement (for example, around social or political issues) and contribute to emotional burnout, and to propose strategies for maintaining a positive outlook. You write a structured essay that blends psychological insight with social commentary, and top entries earn cash prizes and publication in the society’s “Mind Matters” newsletter, plus recognition at a professional psychiatry meeting.
Location: Columbia, Tennessee
Cost: Free (schools cover transportation)
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Regional competition; psychology winners selected from a field of participating schools
Program Dates: Annual one‑day academic competition, most recently held on March 20
Application Deadline: School registration deadlines vary each year (set by Columbia State)
Eligibility: High school students from participating schools in southern Middle Tennessee and nearby regions
Columbia State Community College’s annual High School Competition includes a dedicated psychology category alongside subjects like American history, math, and music. Schools register teams of students who travel to campus and sit subject‑specific exams; in psychology, you answer questions that test your understanding of core introductory concepts and your ability to reason through applied scenarios. Columbia State publicly announces first, second, and third place psychology winners by name and school, so this competition is a strong choice if your high school participates in academic contests and you want to show clear subject‑level achievement in psychology on a college application.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best psychology competitions for high school students?
Strong options depend on a student's interests. Students drawn to knowledge-based testing might consider IPsyO or the International Brain Bee, those interested in independent research might look at Regeneron STS or the Neuroscience Research Prize, and those drawn to writing might consider the John Locke Institute or Minds Underground Psychology Essay Competition.
Are there free psychology competitions for high schoolers?
Yes, most are free, including IPsyO, the APA TOPSS Video Competition, Regeneron STS, the Neuroscience Research Prize, the International Brain Bee, and several mental health essay contests like the International Bipolar Foundation's Teen Change-Maker contest.
Which psychology competitions focus on mental health rather than academic research?
The International Bipolar Foundation Teen Change-Maker Essay Contest, NIMH's Speaking Up About Mental Health essay contest, MindSpeak Youth Mental Health Essay Competition, and the Carl C. Bell Memorial Award all center on mental health themes like stigma, access to care, and emotional wellbeing.
Do psychology competitions require an independent research project?
Some do. Regeneron STS, the Neuroscience Research Prize, and the High School Academic Research Competition (SARC) all require students to design and conduct original research, while others like IPsyO and the Brain Bee are knowledge-based assessments without a research component.
Are there psychology competitions specifically for neuroscience?
Yes, the Neuroscience Research Prize and International Brain Bee both focus specifically on neuroscience topics like neuroanatomy, cognition, and neurological disorders, making them strong fits for students interested in the biological side of psychology.
When should I apply to psychology competitions for high school students?
Deadlines are spread throughout the year. Early deadlines include the APA TOPSS Video Competition (March 20) and Minds Underground Essay Competition (April 3), while others like the John Locke Institute (May 31 submission) and Carl C. Bell Memorial Award (May 15) fall later in the spring.
One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here, check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a graduate of Harvard College, where he earned an A.B. in Statistics. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.