Competition
Breakthrough Junior Challenge
Breakthrough Prize Foundation
Recognition
$250,000 post-secondary scholarship for the winning student, up to $100,000 for a science lab at the winner's school, and $50,000 for a teacher of the winner's choice
Deadline
Sep 15, 2026
The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is an annual global science video competition in which entrants aged 13-18 create an original video (2 minutes or less) explaining a concept in the life sciences, physics, or mathematics. The winner receives a $250,000 college scholarship, plus prizes for their teacher and school science lab.
Eligibility
- Citizenship
- Any
- Fields of study
- Mathematics, Natural sciences, Science
Application requirements
- Sign up / log in on the official site and click "Enter" to start the application: Click 'Enter' at the top of the webpage and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the application form.
- Create and submit an original video (2:00 or under, in English) explaining a life sciences, physics, or mathematics concept: Video must be two minutes (2:00) or under according to the clock on YouTube, must be in English (including scripts/voiceovers), and must not be marked private; must comply with YouTube Community Guidelines.
- Be the sole creator of the submission: You must be the sole creator of your submission; you can brainstorm in a group, have others review your application, and use friends as actors, but group/team submissions are not eligible.
- Score at least 5 other entries during the Peer-to-Peer Review period: Entrants must review at least five (5) other Entries from other entrants, by September 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM PDT, to validate their own participation.
- Submit only one entry per person and confirm eligibility (age 13-18, no prior winners): Limit of one (1) Entry per person during the Competition Period; must be 13 by May 11, 2026 and not yet 19 by October 1, 2026; previous Competition winners are not eligible.
- Obtain parent/legal guardian permission if a minor: If You are a minor, You must have Your parent's or legal guardian's permission to enter.
Verified Jul 8, 2026 · View official source