The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation is excited to announce the 14th Annual Science Without Borders® Challenge.
The 2026 theme is “Microscopic Marine Life”. Although invisible to the naked eye, microscopic organisms play a vital role in maintaining the health of our ocean and our planet. These tiny but mighty creatures form the base of marine food webs, produce much of the world’s oxygen, recycle nutrients, and even help regulate the climate.
The Challenge is open to primary and secondary school students 11-19 years old, with scholarships of up to $500 awarded to the winning entries.
To apply for this year’s contest, students should submit artwork that highlights the positive impact of microscopic marine organisms, such as phytoplankton, zooplankton, bacteria, protists, and other tiny ocean life. Artwork should show how these organisms contribute to ocean ecosystems, support marine life, or impact the health of the planet.
Students must be enrolled in primary or secondary school, or the home school equivalent. College and university students are not eligible for this contest.
Work will be judged in two categories based on age, with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes awarded for each:
- Students 11-14 years old
- Students 15-19 years old
Winners of the Science Without Borders Challenge will be awarded with the following scholarships:
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $350
- 3rd Place: $200
- The Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation also offers a “People’s Choice” award, where the winners in each age group will receive a $50 scholarship.
The Science Without Borders® Challenge is an international contest that engages students and teachers in ocean conservation through art. It inspires students annually to be creative while promoting public awareness of the need to preserve, protect, and restore the world’s oceans and aqua.
