Am I eligible to participate in the Young Naturalist Awards?

If you are a student in grade 7 through 12 and are currently enrolled in a public, private, parochial or home school in the United States, Canada, the U.S. territories, or if you are a U.S. citizen in a U.S.-sponsored school abroad, you are eligible to enter. Sons and daughters of Alcoa Corporation and the American Museum of Natural History employees or consultants are ineligible.

Is there a theme for this year's awards program?

The theme of the Young Naturalist Awards is the same each year: "Scientific Discovery Begins with Curiousity!" Students choose a topic in biology, ecology, Earth science, or astronomy and go to an area where they can explore their topic.

How can I obtain entry materials?

All the forms and information you will need to enter are downloadable from this site. You may also call or e-mail the Young Naturalist Awards Administrator with any questions you have.

If I was a winner, finalist or semifinalist in the past, can I enter again?

As long as you are a student in grades 7-12, you may enter the contest each year.

Can more than one student from a class enter?

Yes.

Are group entries allowed?

Group entries are not allowed. All entries must be the work of a single individual.

What will the judges look for in an entry?

For detailed information on how your entry will be judged, see How Will My Entry Be Judged

How will I know if I am a finalist or winner?

The finalists and semi-finalists will be posted on our Web site during during the week of March 23, 2009. The winners will be announced in the week of April 13, 2009. They will be notified via phone and by mail. Their first names and essay titles will be posted on our website.

Does a teacher, mentor, or parent need to review my work before submission?

Yes, a teacher, mentor, or parent must review your work, and fill in and sign the appropriate section on your entry form. This is to insure that the rules and regulations have been adhered to and to acknowledge that all your work is original.