Judging
Where can I find more information on Judging?
Complete details are available in the IJAS website and linked from the current 2025 host site.
What experience is required to become a volunteer judge?
A high school diploma or GED is a minimum requirement. Each judging team will include a person with knowledge in that presentation category.
What categories will students be assessed in?
Aerospace Science, Agriculture, Astronomy, Behavioral Science, Biochemistry, Botany, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Science, Electronics, Engineering, Environmental Science, Health Science, Materials Science, Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics, Product/Consumer Science, and Zoology.
Are volunteer judges required to be there for the full duration of the shifts listed or is it possible to work part of a shift?
Judges must work the full shift, typically 4-5 hours long. Sign up for a shift!
Can the volunteer training be done asynchronously?
IJAS is working on a video that can be watched prior to the volunteer’s shift. This would provide much of the necessary information and materials. However, the meeting on the day of is still necessary so that all of the members of the judging team can meet, and reorganization can be done to account for judges who are not present for their shift.
When can I expect to receive confirmation and additional information about my shift(s)?
In April, approximately two weeks before the fair you will be contacted by IJAS. Some communication may start as soon as contact information is turned in from the first few regional fairs. The last qualifying fair is March 24.
Student Awards
In what categories will students be given awards?
Students will be given awards in the same categories they will be evaluated in: Aerospace Science, Agriculture, Astronomy, Behavioral Science, Biochemistry, Botany, Cellular and Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Science, Electronics, Engineering, Environmental Science, Health Science, Materials Science, Mathematics, Microbiology, Physics, Product/Consumer Science, and Zoology.
In addition, sponsors can determine their own theme or category for a Special Award.
How can I provide a Special Award?
- Complete the IJAS form before April 1 keeping this in mind:
- What is the category or theme of the award?
- Will the unit send someone to judge for the award and present the award at the banquet?
- Provide IJAS with a logo to display on the certificate.
Can I contribute to another award instead of having my own Special Award?
Yes. Complete the form. Payment can be made in the form of a check or credit card. For university units, please check with your business office to determine which option is within university policy.
Can my unit/organization present the Special Award to the recipient at the awards ceremony?
Yes! During the awards ceremony, Special Awards given by units/organizations who are in attendance are announced first, followed by the rest of the Special Awards, the EPIC (Exceptional Projects in Category), and finally, scholarships. IJAS will present any awards that do not have a representative in attendance.
Where can I see a list of prior awards or current 2025 awards?
Prior year awards and the 2025 awards (as they are confirmed) will be available on the IJAS website.