Changes to the Oliphant Science Award Competition in 2026

We’re excited to share some important updates coming to the Oliphant Science Awards in 2026. These changes aim to make the competition more accessible, flexible and engaging for students, schools and coordinators.

Read on to discover what’s changing for 2026, key dates, and how to make the most of your entry.

General Competition Changes

AI Policy
The Oliphant Science Awards has developed an AI policy to clearly outline how AI tools may be used in the competition entries. You can find this document in the Information Booklet, as well as a Student AI checklist to assist with correct use of AI.

It is now a required component of the competition that any use of AI tools is acknowledged for Crystal Investigation, Games, Models & Inventions, Multimedia, Photography, Posters, Programming, Apps & Robotics, and Science Investigation. No AI is permitted to be used for Science Writing.

Science Content
All rules and rubrics have been reviewed and updated to emphasise the importance of accurate and meaningful science content in each entry. This ensures that projects not only demonstrate creativity and communication but also clearly reflect scientific understanding, investigation, or application. Judges will place greater value on entries that show sound science principles, evidence-based thinking, and authentic student engagement with scientific ideas.

Citizen Science Hiatus
Citizen Science will be taking a hiatus in 2026 as we review and update this category.

Category Name Changes:
Programming, Apps & Robotics is now Programming, Apps & Robotics (including electronic games).

Scientific Inquiry is now Science Investigation.

Category Specific Changes

Crystal Investigation

• New rule: A risk assessment is now required to be signed and submitted. A copy of the risk assessment can be found in the Information Booklet.
• A hard copy of the logbook and risk assessment must be submitted with the crystal – no electronic uploads

Games

• New rule: A short, written statement must now be included in entries, outlining the scientific principle demonstrated in the game, and how the entry was made, including any assistance received

Models & Inventions

• Risk assessment and reports for Models & Inventions can either be submitted during the online submissions period or when delivering the project. If neither of these things are submitted, the project will not be considered for judging.
• New rule: Battery-powered models are permitted; however, organisers will not provide, replace, or recharge batteries, nor will access be allowed for the entrant to replace batteries once delivered.
• New rule: Your model or invention must not include live animals, plants, or perishable or consumable items.

Multimedia

• New rule: If your project includes any copyrighted material, it must be properly referenced in your report. Projects containing copyrighted material will not be displayed on the OSA website.
• New rule: Projects must be submitted in supported formats and must be viewable without requiring judges to sign up for an account or download special software.

Photography

• Rule change: The word count for the written statement has changed from no more than 100 words to be a guide of around 100 words.

Posters

• New rule: A written statement (about 100 words) is now required with every entry. This should outline the message the poster is intended to convey, and acknowledgement of reference materials or AI prompts used.

Programming, Apps & Robotics (including electronic Games)

• An update to the list of programming tools and languages has been made to better reflect the current programs that are being used. Please refer to the rules page for the full list.