NEGA Regional Science & Engineering Fair
2027 Compeition Date: Saturday, February 6th, 2027
Inclement Weather Make-Up Day: Saturday, February 13th, 2027
Time: 8:00 am - 3:00 pm (registration begins at 8:00am, Awards Ceremony at 2:30pm)
Location: Piedmont University at 1021 Central Ave, Demorest, GA 30535
Oconee River GYSTC proudly partners with Piedmont University to provide this event.
Piedmont University dedicates itself to the transformative power of education through reciprocal learning, the development of compassionate leaders, and the stewardship of our local and global communities.
Piedmont University's Department of Natural Sciences provides and encourages advanced understanding within the chosen content area utilizing an interdisciplinary approach and guided independent research. This approach fosters the development of critical thinking and scientific reasoning skills that are characteristic of prepared, informed, competitive, and open-minded graduates.
If you would like assistance with developing student projects, please reach out to Alec Johnson at alec.johnson@negaresa.org prior to October 31.
CLICK HERE FIRST! Suggested Project Timeline Linked Here - Contains all Links and Information to share with Students and Parents
Rules & Policies
For guidance on which school and regional level fair a student should attend, including what to do if the student’s school does not have its own school-level fair, see the Georgia Fair Participation Policy.
Our NEGA Regional Science and Engineering Fair serves the following counties only: Banks, Barrow, Clarke, Elbert, Franklin, Greene, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Jackson, Madison, Morgan, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Walton, White
To be eligible for competition at the Northeast Georgia Regional Fair and Georgia Science & Engineering Fair, projects must follow the International Rules for Pre-College Science Research (“ISEF Rules & Guidelines”), including adherence to research approval protocol and completion of required forms. Here is a highlighted version noting all changes for this year (there are some that may effect some specific projects)
It is the responsibility of the student and supporting adults to know the rules and evaluate the proposed project before experimentation begins. Most projects involving human participants, vertebrate animals, or potentially hazardous biological agents require approval prior to experimentation.
The following tools can help determine what forms and approvals are required for the project:
Students, parents, and teachers are also encouraged to review the following information. Failure to meet deadlines or follow instructions may result in disqualification.
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Display & Safety Regulations (compliance required for NEGA RSEF exhibitors)
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GSEF Abstract Form (Required for all NEGA RSEF participants)
Key Changes This Year
- Research rules and forms:
- Form 2A: Student Support Disclosure Form: This is a NEW form required for ALL projects. Preferably completed after experimentation. Students can complete one per project, but all team members should sign in the signature field.
- Form 2B: Qualified Scientist was renumbered (previously Form 2).
- Form 2C: Regulated Research Institution was renumbered (previously Form 1C).
- Summary of 2026-2027 rule changes
- Middle School Science Fair Project Approval Form NEW!
- This form will be used in lieu of traditional ISEF forms for Junior Division (grades 6-8) ONLY. The form must be completed prior to experimentation.
- Page 1 is ONE PER STUDENT. Page 2 is ONE PER PROJECT. Pages 3-4 are required for projects involving human participants, vertebrate animals, PHBAs, or hazardous chemicals, activities or devices.
- Not posted on GSEF website, but regionals are welcome to download and distribute or share Google Drive link.
- Guidance on the Use of AI NEW!
- Guidance for students on acceptable use of AI.
- International Rules Companion Guide NEW!
- New ISEF publication that we’ve reformatted for clarity.
- Intended for teachers/mentors but could be helpful for anyone.
Event Timeline:
October 23, 2026 - IRB/SRC approval deadline - ***Any project forms that need SRC or IRB approval from the Regional SRC or IRB are due to Alec Johnson at alec.johnson@negaresa.org by Friday, October 23, 2026 to be reviewed and signed by our regional team.
January 4, 2027 - NEGA RSEF registration opens
January 22, 2027 - NEGA RSEF registration closes at 5pm
February 6, 2027 (Inclement Weather Make-up 2/13/2027) - Northeast Georgia Regional Science & Engineering Fair (NEGA RSEF) @ Piedmont University in Demorest, GA
February 9, 2027 - GSEF registration due from regional competitions by 12pm
April 1-3, 2027 - Georgia Science & Engineering Fair (GSEF) @ The Classic Center in Athens, GA
May 8-14, 2027 - International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Los Angeles, California
Email questions to Alec Johnson at alec.johnson@negaresa.org.
We are always looking for expert judges with science & engineering backgrounds. If you are interested in supporting the development of the next generation of scientists & engineers please complete the volunteer form linked below!
***Click Here To Complete The Volunteer Form***
To be added to the meeting invitations or for more information please contact Alec Johnson, Regional Coordinator - Oconee River GYSTC, at alec.johnson@negaresa.org.