Are you ready to combine your creativity with ocean science?
The 15th Annual Science Without Borders® Challenge is now open! Whether you’re participating for the first time or returning for another year, this guide will help you get started.
This year’s theme, Navigate With Care, invites students to explore how responsible navigation helps protect both people and life in the ocean. Through your artwork, you can compete for scholarships and international recognition while inspiring others to protect both people and life in the ocean.
Who Can Participate?
The Science Without Borders® Challenge is open to students 11–19 years old who are enrolled in primary or secondary school (or the homeschool equivalent).
The contest is free to enter, welcomes students from around the world, and offers scholarships of up to $500 for winning artwork.
Every participant must have a teacher sponsor. Teacher sponsors verify student eligibility, serve as the primary point of contact throughout the contest, and support students during the submission process. Teachers do not need to be science or art experts—we welcome classroom teachers, art teachers, and after-school educators alike.
Are you a teacher thinking about participating with your class? Visit our Teacher Responsibilities page to learn what sponsoring a student involves and explore classroom resources to help your students succeed.
Tell a Story Through Your Artwork
This year’s theme is about more than simply drawing a boat, a whale, or another marine animal. Your artwork should tell a story about how responsible navigation helps protect both people and life in the ocean.
As you develop your idea, ask yourself:
- What navigation decision is being made?
- How does that decision improve safety for people?
- How does it also protect marine wildlife or ocean ecosystems?
The strongest entries will clearly communicate the connection between people and the ocean, showing how thoughtful decisions on the water allow both to safely share our blue planet.
Need inspiration before you begin?
What’s New for 2027?
This year, every participant will submit two progress photos along with their finished artwork.
- Progress Photo #1: Take a photo of yourself with your artwork during the early stages of creation (such as your sketch or outline).
- Progress Photo #2: Take a second photo of yourself with your artwork later in the creative process, before it is finished.
Your face and your artwork should both be clearly visible in each photo.
Only your final artwork will be judged. Your progress photos are used only to verify the originality of your submission and will not be published, displayed, or used for promotional purposes.
Ready to Get Started?
Before you begin creating your artwork, take a few minutes to explore this year’s theme and review the contest resources. The more you understand the theme, the stronger your submission will be.
✔ Explore Past Winning Artwork
Once you’ve explored these resources, you’ll be ready to create an artwork that not only reflects this year’s theme but also communicates a meaningful conservation message.
Stay Connected
Follow the Science Without Borders® Challenge throughout the competition for important announcements, contest reminders, educational resources, and the announcement of this year’s winners.
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