Deadline: March 2, 2026
Applications are open for the Science Without Borders Challenge 2026. The Science Without Borders® Challenge is an international contest that engages students and teachers in ocean conservation through art. This annual competition inspires students to be creative while promoting public awareness of the need to preserve, protect, and restore the world’s oceans and aquatic resources, contributing to the overarching goals of the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation.
The theme for the 2026 Science Without Borders® Challenge 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.
Prizes
Winners of the Science Without Borders Challenge will be awarded with the following scholarships:
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $350
- 3rd Place: $200
They also offer a “People’s Choice” award, with winners in each age group receiving a $50 scholarship.
Eligibility
- Open to all students 11-19 years old. Students must be 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
Judging
A panel of artists, educators, and scientists judge the Science Without Borders® Challenge. Artwork will be evaluated on the quality of the artwork, originality, and adherence to the theme. The judges will use a Grading Rubric to evaluate the artwork.
When creating your artwork, you should think about these questions:
- Does your artwork reflect that you understand the theme of the contest?
- Does your artist’s statement also show that you understand the contest theme?
- Does your piece show that you have a good understanding of art and that you use these art elements, such as line, shape, form, value, composition, and color, to effectively portray the theme?
- Is your artwork original, inventive, and shows off your individual style?
- Is your artwork neat? Are there tears, smudges, and/or smear marks?
- Does your artwork invoke emotion for your viewers? Is it striking and memorable?
Application
To apply to the 2026 Science Without Borders® Challenge, fill out the online entry form, upload a picture of your artwork, and make sure everything is submitted before the deadline! If you are under the age of 13, your parents will be asked to provide consent, so make sure not to wait until the last minute.
For more information, visit Science Without Borders Challenge.
