Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF)
The top student research competition in Canada
Why It Matters
Placing at CWSF is one of the most impressive things a Canadian student can put on a university application. It shows you can independently design, execute, and present original research.
How to Start
Enter your regional STEM fair first. Youth Science Canada has a network of more than 100 regional fairs, most held in March or April. Regional winners advance to the CWSF, which is held in late May or early June (the 2027 fair is in Hamilton, ON). Speak to your science teacher in September to start your project early.
Commitment
- High commitment: several hours a week, often with evenings, weekends or travel.
- Best starting grade: G7
- Start your project in G7 or G8 - the earlier you begin, the stronger and more polished your research becomes.
Programs It Supports
- Sciences
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Environmental Science
Majors it supports
- Environmental Science – mid to high 80s
Universities where it fits
Our profiles for these schools suggest Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) as a good fit for their applicants.
- University of Toronto – Toronto, ON
- McMaster University – Hamilton, ON
- University of British Columbia – Vancouver, BC
- McGill University – Montreal, QC
- Université de Montréal – Montreal, QC
- University of Alberta – Edmonton, AB
Similar extracurriculars
- Science Olympics – University-hosted team science competitions for high schoolers
- Robotics Club - VEX or FIRST – Build and compete with real robots
- Environmental Club – Lead sustainability efforts at your school
- Biology / Chemistry Lab Club – Go deeper into science beyond the classroom
- BioTalent Challenge (now Sanofi Biogenius) – The former name of Canada's national student biotech competition
- Sanofi Biogenius Canada – Student health and biotech research competition with national finals
- Lab Assistant / Science Prep Room Volunteer – Help science teachers prep labs and organize equipment
- Astronomy & Stargazing Club – Host night-time telescope viewings and planetarium trips
- Anatomy / Dissection Club – Go beyond the curriculum with advanced biological dissections