THE NATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE CAMP

The National Youth Science Camp (NYSC) is a residential science education program that honors and challenges two graduating high school science students from each state.  Scientists from across the nation present lectures and hands-on science seminars and linger to interact informally with student delegates.  Delegates are challenged to explore new areas in the biological and physical sciences, art, and music with resident staff members.  Opportunities are provided for delegates to present seminars covering their own areas of interest and research.  A visit to Washington D.C. permits delegates to visit some of the nation’s premier scientific, governmental, and cultural facilities.  The NYSC experience includes overnight excursions into the Monongahela National Forest featuring backpacking, rock-climbing, caving, mountain biking, and kayaking opportunities.  Delegates are required to participate in the camp program for its entirety as the fast-paced activities and remote location make travel to and from the NYSC very difficult.  

The National Youth Science Camp is offered at NO COST to its participants so that selected delegates may attend regardless of their financial status.  All educational and recreational programming, as well as meals, lodging, and round-trip air passage on scheduled airlines are provided free of charge to the delegates.

Eligible Applicants*

     • Must be candidates for high school graduation between July 1, 2012 and June 30, 2013;

     • Must demonstrate superior academic proficiency, including recognition in mathematics and/or the sciences;

     • Must demonstrate an application of leadership abilities and social maturity through involvement in school and community activities;

     • Must demonstrate skills and achievements outside the realm of science and outside the realm of academic pursuits; and

     • Must demonstrate a curiosity and an eagerness to explore many and varied topics.

     • Must demonstrate a curiosity and an eagerness to explore many and varied topics.

*In addition to the requirements above, a judging committee will score applicants' projects at the Montana State Science Fair. 

To Apply for the National Youth Science Camp, please follow these instructions:

1) Download the 2013 NYSC Application Packet.

2) Complete the application. 

3) Submit your application directly to your state selection coordinator at the address below so that it is received no later than February 25, 2013. DO NOT send applications directly to the National Youth Science Foundation.

Desirae Ware

The University of Montana-Missoula - 32 Campus Drive

Chemistry Building - Room 208

Missoula, MT 59812

Applications can also be emailed to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

4) Participate in the Montana State Science Fair. Please Note: Although participation in the Montana State Science Fair is not required, it is highly recommended. 

For more information, visit www.nysc.org.  

2012 Montana Representation

Last year, Kyle Brester and Michelle Nemetchek were chosen as Montana's Delegates for the National Youth Science Camp. Read more about their experiences by clicking the links below. 

Kyle Brester: http://2012.nysc.org/delegates/kyle-brester

Michelle Nemetchek: http://2012.nysc.org/delegates/michelle-nemetchek