The Science Without Borders Challenge 2027 is a free international art contest for students aged 11–19, with prizes of up to $500 and a deadline of March 1, 2027.
The Science Without Borders® Challenge 2027 is an international student art competition designed to encourage creativity while raising awareness about ocean science, conservation and the protection of aquatic resources.
The contest is free to enter and is open to eligible primary and secondary school students around the world. Winning entries can receive scholarships of up to $500.
Opportunity Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | Science Without Borders® Challenge |
| Year | 2027 |
| Theme | Navigate with Care |
| Eligibility | Students aged 11–19 |
| Education level | Primary or secondary school |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Maximum prize | Up to $500 |
| Categories | Ages 11–14 and 15–19 |
| Deadline | March 1, 2027 |
| Sponsor | International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN) |
About the Competition
The annual Science Without Borders Challenge teaches students about important ocean science and conservation issues while encouraging them to express ideas through art.
The competition supports the broader goals of the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, which works to preserve, protect and restore the world’s oceans through scientific research, outreach and education.
The 2027 competition is sponsored by the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN).
2027 Theme: Navigate with Care
The 2027 theme is “Navigate with Care.”
The theme encourages students to explore how safe and responsible navigation can help protect people and marine life.
Students are encouraged to consider the relationship between navigation, ocean safety and the protection of aquatic environments when developing their artwork.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is open internationally to students who:
- Are 11 to 19 years old.
- Are enrolled in primary or secondary school.
- Are enrolled in a homeschool equivalent.
College and university students are not eligible.
Entries are judged in two age categories:
- 11–14 years
- 15–19 years
Prizes are awarded in both age groups.
Artwork Requirements
The Science Without Borders Challenge accepts original two-dimensional artwork created by hand.
Examples include:
- Paintings
- Drawings
Students should review the official contest rules before beginning their artwork.
Semi-finalists must also be prepared to send the original artwork to the organizers if required to remain eligible for a winning award.
New Application Requirement for 2027
A new requirement has been introduced for the 2027 competition.
Students must upload two photographs showing themselves creating their artwork at different stages.
The photographs are intended to help organizers verify that the submitted artwork was created by the student and is not AI-generated.
How to Apply
Students must complete the online entry process by:
- Completing the online entry form.
- Uploading a picture of the completed artwork.
- Uploading two photographs showing themselves creating the artwork at different stages.
- Submitting all required information before the deadline.
Students under 13 will need parental consent.
Apply to the Science Without Borders Challenge
Prizes
Winning entries can receive scholarships of up to $500.
The competition awards prizes across the two age categories, covering students aged 11–14 and 15–19.
Application Deadline
The deadline for the Science Without Borders Challenge 2027 is:
Monday, March 1, 2027 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Students should complete their submissions before the deadline, particularly those under 13 who require parental consent.
Application Tips
Students preparing an entry should:
- Read the contest rules before creating the artwork.
- Make sure the artwork relates clearly to the Navigate with Care theme.
- Create original artwork by hand.
- Keep photographs showing the artwork creation process.
- Prepare a clear artist’s statement explaining the relationship between the artwork and the theme.
- Submit all required materials before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Science Without Borders Challenge?
It is an international student art competition focused on ocean science, conservation and awareness.
Who can participate?
Primary and secondary school students aged 11–19 can participate. Homeschool students at an equivalent level are also eligible.
Are university students eligible?
No. College and university students are not eligible for the competition.
Is there an entry fee?
No. The competition is free to enter.
What is the 2027 theme?
The 2027 theme is “Navigate with Care.”
How much can winners receive?
Winning entries can receive scholarships of up to $500.
What type of artwork is accepted?
The competition accepts original two-dimensional artwork created by hand, such as drawings and paintings.
What is the deadline?
Entries must be submitted by March 1, 2027 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
What new requirement applies in 2027?
Students must upload two photos showing themselves creating their artwork at different stages to help verify that the work is their own and not AI-generated.
Disclaimer
Opportunities Feed is sharing this competition for informational and educational purposes. We are not affiliated with the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation or the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation and do not administer the competition.
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