FAQs

Any student that resides in Region X. This includes public school, private school, and home school students. Counties served by the DRSEF include Dallas, Collin, Grayson, Ellis, Rockwell, Fannin, Hunt, Kaufman, Van Zandt, and Henderson Counties.

There are many reasons to attend, including:
1. Direct entry to the Texas State Science Fair
2. Direct entry to the International Science & Engineering Fair
3. Eligibility for cash awards and scholarships
4. Exposure to universities, corporations, and government agencies
5. Winning at DRSEF looks GREAT on your Common App for college admissions!

A teacher sponsor is HIGHLY recommended as we find the most successful entrants have a teacher or other school/district sponsor. However, for home school students or students in a school that does not sponsor students, a parent/guardian may act as sponsor.

Student are REQUIRED to present their project in person on fair day. Limited exceptions can be made for religious reasons.

In-person attendance is required for projects to be judged.
We do not have “make-up” days and we cannot accommodate late arrivals. We strive to have all judging completed on time and announce winners on the day of the fair.

Teacher sponsors’ main roles to help students prepare thoughtful, fair-ready projects that have followed the scientific process. Sponsors will also assist students in competing the required forms, safety reviews, and online entrance to the DRSEF.

Teachers are more than welcome to attend (we always need volunteers!), but there is NO requirement to attend the fair. If one of your students wins an award, you will be invited to attend the annual award banquet at no cost; there is also no requirement for you to attend the banquet.

Most years there are opportunities for teachers to win cash prizes. Cash prizes vary in amount and number each year, but historically teacher prizes range from $100 – $500.