The Central Nebraska Science and Engineering Fair (CNSEF) will be held March 24, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. Central, at the University of Nebraska Kearney. This event is a science, agriculture, and engineering competition open to students from junior and senior high schools in counties located along and west of Highway 281 in Nebraska. Registration opens on Jan. 1, 2026 and closes Feb. 24, 2026.
The CNSEF has been held since 1975. It was previously hosted by the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture in Curtis, Nebraska. The high school fair is now hosted by the UNK Biology Department and judged primarily by UNK professors as well as academics and industry professionals from across Nebraska. The middle school fair is hosted by Mid-Plains Community College in North Platte.
Judges will award various cash prizes and certificates to recognize outstanding research. Prizes and certificates come from private and governmental partner organizations.
The CNSEF is an affiliate of the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). The top high school projects from this fair will have the opportunity to compete in the ISEF.