New opportunities across research, writing, science, and leadership

1. MBZUAI AI Research Program (AIR) 2026

📚 Program · Tech & Computing  ·  Deadline: March 31, 2026

If you are genuinely interested in AI - not just using it, but understanding how large language models, image generation, and robotics actually work - and want to spend two weeks doing real research on it.

A fully funded two-week residential program at Mohamed bin Zayed University of AI in Abu Dhabi - the world's only university dedicated entirely to AI research. You work alongside faculty on live research projects. Flights, visa support, housing, and all costs covered. 50 students selected globally.

Deadline March 31. You need Python experience to apply. New program, first year running. The program takes place from 14th to 26th June 2026.

2. Princeton Ten-Minute Play Contest 2026

🏆 Competition · Writing  ·  Deadline: March 31, 2026

For Form 3 students who write fiction, enjoy drama, or have ever wanted to put a real scene - with characters and tension - on a page.

You write a 10-page original play script. Princeton theater faculty read and judge all entries. Cash prizes: $500 first, $250 second, $100 third. Very few competitions ask secondary school students to write for the stage - this one does, and takes it seriously.

Open to Form 3 students only (Grade 11 equivalent). Closes March 31 or when 250 entries are received - whichever comes first. Apply now.

3. Lumiere Research Breakthrough Scholar Program 2026

📚 Program · Research  ·  Deadline: April 05, 2026

For high-achieving students who cannot afford paid research programs - this is the fully funded version, built specifically for students from low-income households.

You are paired one-on-one with a PhD mentor and spend the semester working on an original research project in any field you choose. You produce a real research paper at the end. No program cost at all. This is run by a nonprofit specifically designed so that financial background does not determine who gets research experience.

Requires a strong academic record. Scholars typically have household income under $50,000/year (or equivalent financial hardship). Fully funded - no fees, and no previous research experience in your field needed.

4. Aspire Leaders Program 2026 - Cohort 2

🤝 Fellowship · Leadership  ·  Deadline: April 13, 2026

For first-generation university students, or those from limited-income families, who want structured leadership development and practical skills in AI and digital transformation.

A fully virtual, fully funded leadership program built around Harvard-developed curriculum. You get coaching, a global community, and real skills in areas like AI and community impact.

5. World Science Scholars Program 2026

📚 Program · Science  ·  Deadline: April 15, 2026

For students with exceptional ability in mathematics who want to go further than school allows - working directly with world-class scientists on real problems.

A free, fully online program run by the World Science Festival. You are guided by leading researchers and work on complex, cross-disciplinary scientific challenges alongside a small cohort of exceptional students from around the world. About two hours a week during the academic year - no travel required.

Highly selective. Strong mathematics ability is the main requirement. Free to apply and participate. Results announced by June 30.

6. High School Academic Research Competition (SARC) 2026

🏆 Competition · Research  ·  Deadline: April 17, 2026

If you have a question you want to actually investigate - any subject, any field - and develop the relevant research skills.

You pick a topic, get expert guidance and bootcamp sessions to build your methodology, write a proper research paper, and compete against students globally. Cash prizes up to $3,000. The whole process runs online, so no travel is needed. The research paper you produce is something you actually own.

A registration fee of $20 applies - check the site before registering. Open to all students aged 13-18 globally.

7. Adroit Prizes for Poetry and Prose 2026

🏆 Competition · Writing  ·  Deadline: May 01, 2026

For students who write - poetry or prose - and want their work read by a serious literary audience.

The Adroit Journal is one of the most respected student literary publications in the world. Winners receive $200 and are published in the journal. You can submit up to 6 poems or up to 3 prose pieces.

Submissions open April 1. Prepare your pieces now so you are ready. Free to enter.

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