Young researchers and other student competitions

In short: Student competitions such as “Jugend forscht” give young people the opportunity to realise and present their own projects in science, technology or other fields. They promote independent work beyond regular lessons.

In more detail: “Jugend forscht” is one of the best-known competitions in Germany, with thousands of participants each year.

In detail

• Fields: Biology, chemistry, physics, maths/computer science, technology and the world of work.
• Process: From the regional round through state competitions to the national final.
• Finding a topic: Own questions from everyday life, hobbies or school lessons often work well.
• Support: Teachers or external mentors support the project work.
• Other competitions: Foreign-language competitions, maths olympiads or debating competitions offer different focuses.
• Benefits: Competition experience can have a positive effect on applications for study or work.
• Participation without pressure: The process and experience often count more than a placement result (lernstrategien-nach-lernstil).