Breakthrough Junior Challenge
Offered by Breakthrough Prize Foundation
About this scholarship
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global science-communication competition for young people ages 13–18. Entrants create an original English-language video, no longer than two minutes, explaining a difficult concept or principle in physics, mathematics, or the life sciences. The overall winner receives a $250,000 post-secondary scholarship usable for tuition and fees at colleges or universities worldwide. The teacher who inspired the winner receives $50,000, and the winner’s school receives a $100,000 Breakthrough Science Lab. Because the student award is restricted to educational costs rather than a complete living-cost package, it is classified as partial funding. For the 2026 competition, entrants must have reached age 13 by May 11, 2026 and must still be 18—not yet 19—on October 1, 2026. Minors need parental or guardian permission, and residents of comprehensively sanctioned regions cannot enter. A valid application requires a profile, video link, and submission by September 15 at 11:59 p.m. PDT. Entrants must then score at least five peer videos by September 30. Videos are evaluated for engagement, illumination, creativity, and difficulty of the concept explained.
Eligibility
- Be at least 13 years old by May 11, 2026
- Be no older than 18—not yet 19—on October 1, 2026
- Obtain parent or legal-guardian permission if under the age of majority
- Not reside in a region subject to comprehensive U.S. economic sanctions
- Create an original English-language video of no more than two minutes
- Explain a concept in physics, life sciences, or mathematics
- Submit the profile, application, and video link by September 15, 2026
- Review and score at least five peer submissions by September 30, 2026