Regeneron ISEF 2020 Cancelled – FAQ
GENERAL
Why isn’t the Society postponing Regeneron ISEF, as you did with STS?
The Society has determined that postponing an event the size and scope of Regeneron ISEF was not feasible. This involved reviewing the challenges associated with the volunteer and judge recruitment, securing the convention center and hotel rooms necessary and the graduation of many of the named finalists. Additionally, so many fairs were cancelled and were not able to name finalists that postponement would exclude a significant portion of our fairs.
Why isn’t the Society hosting a virtual fair?
The Society is thrilled to share that we are hosting a Virtual Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) program May 18 through May 22 that will include speakers of the highest caliber, focusing on topics ranging from COVID-19 to entrepreneurship to being a woman in STEM. We are excited to showcase the research of students from around the world. Finalists that were named have been given the opportunity to have their abstract published and to share a short video and/or photos of themselves and their projects.
Although the event will not include virtual judging, the finalists’ materials will be arranged by category and available for all to visit and experience. After extensive review and consideration, the Society determined it would not be feasible or fair to host a virtual judging experience given that a significant percentage of our affiliate fairs were not able to hold a fair and name finalists. Moreover, the logistical challenges of language, time zones and equity of technology suggests that any process that the Society could implement would not be experienced equally or justly across the audience to be judged.
FAIR DIRECTORS
Is my registration fee refundable?
In the coming days, the Society will follow up with any fair that paid registration fees and provide more direction on any possible refund process.
How do I cancel my hotel reservation?
All hotel reservations made through the Experient housing portal will be cancelled on your behalf. Of course, no penalties will be incurred, nor will any credit cards be charged. Please direct any questions to Will Johnson wjohnson@societyforscience.org .
Is my affiliation fee refundable?
Affiliation fees are non-refundable. If you have questions, please contact isef@societyforscience.org
Our current policy is that the affiliation fee is non-refundable as it supports listing your fair as active, the regional awards and the support that our staff provides throughout the year.
FINALISTS
Am I considered an alum of the Society for Science & the Public even though I didn’t compete at ISEF? Can I tell colleges that I was a Regeneron ISEF finalist?
Yes. Congratulations on being named a Regeneron ISEF finalist and for competing in your local science fair! Although you did not compete in Regeneron ISEF, we still consider you to be a Regeneron ISEF finalist and an alum of the Society for Science & the Public.
I qualified to be a Regeneron ISEF finalist in 2020 and would like to transfer my finalist eligibility to 2021. Can I do that?
No, you must earn the right to compete at Regeneron ISEF 2021 by competing at your affiliated fair next year.
If you still have questions or need any information that isn’t covered here please contact isef@societyforscience.org.