Deadline:
March 02, 2026
Location(s)
Online Worldwide
Overview
The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation announces the 2026 Science Without Borders® Challenge, now open with the theme “Microscopic Marine Life.” This year’s contest invites students to create artwork celebrating the vital role of tiny ocean organisms—like phytoplankton, zooplankton, bacteria, and protists—that sustain marine ecosystems, produce oxygen, recycle nutrients, and regulate Earth’s climate.
The contest is open worldwide to students ages 11–19 enrolled in primary or secondary school. Entries will be judged in two age categories (11–14 and 15–19), with cash prizes up to $500. All artwork must be submitted by Monday, March 2, 2026. Learn more about the theme, contest rules, and how to apply at lof.org/SWBChallenge.
Details
The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is excited to announce that the 2026 Science Without Borders Challenge is now open! This year’s theme is “Microscopic Marine Life.” Although invisible to the naked eye, microscopic organisms play a vital role in maintaining the health of our ocean and our planet. These tiny but mighty creatures form the base of marine food webs, produce much of the world’s oxygen, recycle nutrients, and even help regulate the climate.
To apply for this year’s contest, students should submit artwork that highlights the positive impact of microscopic marine organisms, such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, bacteria, protists, and other tiny ocean life. Artwork should show how these organisms contribute to ocean ecosystems, support marine life, or impact the health of the planet. Through their art, students will reveal the hidden beauty and importance of life at the smallest scale. Learn about the theme.
The Science Without Borders Challenge is open to all students worldwide who are 11–19 years old and enrolled in primary or secondary school (or the home-school equivalent). College and university students are not eligible for this contest. Work will be judged in two categories based on age, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes awarded for each:
- Students 11–14 years old
- Students 15–19 years old
Students can win up to $500 in this international art contest.
All entries must be received by Monday, March 2, 2026, to be eligible to win the contest.
To learn more about the Science Without Borders Challenge rules and how to apply, visit lof.org/SWBChallenge.
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
The Challenge is open to primary and secondary school students (or the homeschool equivalent) 11-19 years old.
Dates
Deadline: March 02, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
It is free to participate in the contest.
Winners of each age category (Ages 11-14 and 15-19) of the Science Without Borders Cahllenge will be awarded with the following scholarships:
- 1st Place: $500 USD
- 2nd Place: $350 USD
- 3rd Place: $200 USD
The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation also offers a "People's Choice" award, where the winners of each age group will receive a $50 USD scholarship.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
