Student Opportunities

The Earth Prize is an annual, global $100,000 environmental sustainability competition for students between the ages of 13 and 19, which rewards the teams whose projects have the most potential to address environmental issues. 

The Slingshot Challenge invites 13-18-year-olds to voice their ideas about the future of conservation work. Submit a 1-minute video describing their idea for solving environmental issues for a chance to receive up to $10,000 in funding.

Action for Nature’s annual International Young Eco-Heroes Awards celebrates he environmental achievements of young people aged 8 to 16 for their innovative efforts to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and wildlife conservation.

The Rise Challenge starts at ages 15–17 and encourages a lifetime of service and learning by providing support (need-based scholarships, mentorship, networking, access to career development opportunities), and the potential for additional funding as Rise Global Winners work toward solving humanity’s most pressing problems.

President's Environmental Youth Award (PEYA) is a U.S.-based program recognizing outstanding environmental stewardship projects by K-12 students. The application period is open from October 15, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Winners are typically announced later in the year.

Trust for Sustainable Living is hosting an essay and video competition exploring sustainability topics, open to students worldwide. The deadline for submissions is March 3, 2025. Winners are usually announced in the following months.

The Smithsonian Science Education Center invites high school students aged 14-19 worldwide to engage in a 3-month collaborative research project focused on climate action. The program runs from February 4 to April 29, 2025. Participants are expected to commit approximately 2-3 hours per week.

Columbia Climate School is hosting a 2-week campus-based summer program in Vermont for high school students (grades 9-12, including rising 9th graders) to mobilize action and drive impact in response to climate change. The program dates are June 29 to July 11, 2025. Application deadlines vary; interested students should check the official website for details.

Offered by Florida Atlantic University, this dual enrollment program empowers high school students to become knowledgeable voices for climate resilience in their communities. Program dates and application deadlines for 2025 are to be announced; students should monitor the official website for updates.

A youth-led climate activism program by the California Academy of Sciences for individuals aged 13-18 who are passionate about protecting and regenerating the natural world. Program details and application deadlines for 2025 are forthcoming; interested students should check the official website for the latest information.

Envirothon is an annual environmental education competition for high school students in the U.S. and Canada, focusing on ecology, natural resource management, and current environmental issues. Local and state/provincial competitions typically occur in the first half of the year, leading to the North American competition in the summer.

Various universities and organizations offer summer programs focusing on environmental science for high school students. Application deadlines and program dates vary, with many deadlines falling in the first half of 2025. These programs provide hands-on experience in environmental research and sustainability practices. Click on the link below to see opportunities.

Youth Environmental Activists (YEA) is a network for Minnesota youth acting on the systems perpetuating the climate crisis. By joining the Network, you can get involved at any level you’d like to build youth power. They provide the support and co-mentorship you need to step into climate leadership in your community. Attend our youth-led meetings, apply for funding for a project of your own, or get involved in YEA!

The Riley’s Way Foundation is hosting a Call For Kindness (C4K) Fellowship gives young leaders (ages 13-23) across the country the skills, connections, and funding they need to run social impact projects that inspire kindness and strengthen their local, national, or global communities. The Fellowship consists of a 12-month leadership development fellowship and a startup grant of up to $5,000. Fellows receive 1:1 coaching and project support, virtual skill-building sessions, an in-person leadership Retreat, mentorship opportunities, and a peer community of other young changemakers.