About STEM Next
This essay competition is open to all students aged 16–18, with no subject prerequisites — and it’s not limited to STEM topics. Whether you’re passionate about science, the arts, or the humanities, there’s something for everyone!
It’s a fantastic opportunity to develop valuable, transferable skills such as research, critical thinking, analysis, and communication — all of which are essential for future studies and careers. Participants can choose from three essay categories, each offering a variety of thought-provoking questions to suit different interests. This is an independent project, involving self-directed research and writing. However, students are encouraged to seek feedback from teachers or peers before submitting their final work.
Available categories:
View all available essay topics here.
1) Energy & Innovation (Download Information Booklet)
2) Medicine & Psychology (Download Information Booklet)
3) Chemistry & Biological Sciences (Download Information Booklet)
Student registration for STEM Next 2025 is now closed. No applications will be accepted. Keep an eye on the STEM Next page for 2026 competition details.
Taking part in STEM Next competition is a brilliant opportunity for students to add additional achievements to their UCAS application. In addition, participating students are eligible for CREST Awards. Additional prizes: 1st place winners in each category will be awarded with £200 of Amazon vouchers, 2nd place winners in each category will be awarded with £100 of Amazon vouchers, and 3rd places winners in each category will be awarded with £50 of Amazon vouchers. Please note Amazon vouchers cannot be exchanged for cash or alternative prize. Authors of the selected top essays will be required to discuss their work in an online meeting with a panel of judges.
Important Dates
Deadline to register interest: Closed for 2025.
Deadline for essay submission: 29 August, 2025
(don’t forget to submit the cover sheet - download the cover sheet)
Discussion with the authors of the selected top essays: late September/October
Winning essays announced: November 2025
Interested in volunteering for STEM Next?
We are looking for industry professionals and/or academic staff with knowledge in either of the following areas: Energy Industry, Innovation, Physics, Medicine, Psychology, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Neuroscience, Environmental Science, Space Science, Future Tech, who would like to be interviewed by participating students about their essay topic. Volunteers will be able to select the essay topics they would like to be interviewed about. If interested, please fill out the interest form here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter the competition if I turn 16 after the project launch? Unfortunately, due to safeguarding policies—particularly as the process involves interviews with industry volunteers—students must be at least 16 years old at the start of the project.
When can I start writing my essay? The essay questions can be found in the Information sheets above. You must pick one of the provided topics. You can start writing your essay whenever you like, but the starter pack (including guide to get started, guide to referencing, guide on essay writing, etc,) will be sent upon registration).
What if I don’t know a person to interview? That is no problem; after the project launch, we will provide a database of volunteers who are willing to be interviewed on the essay topics. You can also interview a person that you know personally that will benefit your essay.
I don’t live in the UK, can I enter this competition? Yes, this competition is open to international applicants, however it must be written in English. Additionally the prize of amazon vouchers cannot be exchanged for an alternative.
I am unsure of how to get started! Once the project launches, all the support materials will be available to you which will include guides and videos on interviews, referencing and how to get started.
When is the deadline to submit my essay? The deadline to submit your essay is 29th August, 2025. You are required to submit a cover sheet as well, which will be provided in due course.
Can I view previous winners' essays? No, previous years' essays are not available to view. This is to encourage students to approach the topic with originality and authenticity, rather than being influenced by past submissions.
Can I submit more than one essay? No, each student may submit only one essay for the competition.
If your query is not answered here, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Watch the STEM Next Grand Final and meet some of the finalists of 2024 competition!
Watch STEM Next student highlights from previous years:
A massive thank you to STEM Next 2025 project sponsors and supporters
