CEF You Be The Solution Challenge
by Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF)
The CEF You Be The Solution Challenge is a science competition for grades 5-8, organized by the Chemical Educational Foundation. The Qualifier Round for the 2026 competition is on December 12, 2026, with registration typically open from October to December.
About
The CEF You Be The Solution Challenge, formerly the You Be The Chemist Challenge, is organized by the Chemical Educational Foundation (CEF). This competition is designed for teams of 3-4 students in grades 5-8, with primary school eligibility for grades 5-6. Teams require an adult coordinator and participate in a multiple-choice qualifier test. The Qualifier Round for the 2026 competition is scheduled for December 12, 2026, and is held online. Registration for the Challenge typically starts in October and runs through December for the upcoming cycle. Later stages include regional and national events.
Who's eligible
Teams of 3-4 students in grades 5-8. For primary school, grades 5-6 are eligible. Requires an adult Team Coordinator.
How to enroll
Teams of 3-4 students with an adult Team Coordinator. Students participate in a multiple-choice qualifier test, and teams create a video for later stages.
Ready to apply?
Information current as of Aug 17, 2026.