Rube Goldberg Machine Contest (Elementary Division)
by Rube Goldberg Institute
Teams design and build complex machines to perform simple tasks. Registration for the 2027 cycle (K-5) opened June 1, 2026. A fee of $79 per team is expected.
About
The Rube Goldberg Machine Contest challenges teams to design and build an intentionally overcomplicated machine to perform a simple task. The 2027 competition cycle for the Elementary division (K-5) opened registration on June 1, 2026. Teams, consisting of 1 to 15 members plus a coach, register in advance, and the 2027 rulebook is accessible after official registration. The registration deadline for the 2026 season was March 14, 2026, with a $79 non-refundable fee per team, and a similar fee is expected for 2027. Regional contests for the 2027 cycle begin January 1, 2027, and end March 28, 2027, with National events in April 2027 (e.g., East Coast National RGMC in Bronx, NY on April 4, 2027) and the World Championship in May 2027. Locations are national, with regional, national, and world championship events.
Who's eligible
Teams of 1 to 15 members plus a coach.
How to enroll
Team registration.
Ready to apply?
Information current as of Sep 28, 2026.