Apply: Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation’s Science without Borders Challenge
Applications are now open for the 2026 Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation’s Science Without Borders® Challenge — a global art competition that brings together creativity, science, and ocean advocacy. Designed to inspire young people to think critically about the marine world, the challenge invites students from around the world to express their understanding of ocean conservation through the power of visual art.
Organized annually by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, the Science Without Borders® Challenge encourages students and teachers to take an active role in preserving the health of the planet’s oceans and aquatic ecosystems. By combining education, imagination, and environmental awareness, the contest helps young people become ambassadors for marine conservation while cultivating artistic skills and scientific curiosity.
The 2026 competition explores the fascinating theme “Microscopic Marine Life.” Though invisible to the naked eye, microscopic organisms such as plankton, bacteria, and algae play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our oceans. These tiny organisms form the foundation of marine food chains, contribute significantly to global oxygen production, recycle nutrients, and help regulate the Earth’s climate. Through their artwork, participants are encouraged to highlight the unseen beauty, importance, and vulnerability of these minute oceanic species that sustain life on our planet.
Who Can Participate
The Science Without Borders® Challenge is open to students from all over the world who are between 11 and 19 years old. Participants must be enrolled in primary or secondary school (or the homeschool equivalent). Please note that college and university students are not eligible to enter the competition.
Entries will be evaluated in two distinct age categories to ensure fairness and appropriate judging criteria:
- Junior Category: Ages 11–14
- Senior Category: Ages 15–19
Awards and Prizes
Winning artworks will receive scholarship prizes to support the students’ educational goals. Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries in each age group:
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $350
- 3rd Place: $200
In addition to the monetary awards, the winning pieces will be showcased on the foundation’s global platforms, helping raise awareness about the essential role of microscopic marine life and the urgent need for ocean protection.
Why Participate
This competition provides more than just an opportunity to win a prize — it’s a platform for young minds to merge art and science in ways that inspire change. Students who take part in the challenge learn about marine ecosystems, develop creative problem-solving skills, and become part of an international movement advocating for environmental sustainability.
The Science Without Borders® Challenge continues to serve as a bridge between science and art, motivating a new generation of ocean stewards to see beyond the surface and appreciate the interconnectedness of all life forms, no matter how small.
Deadline: March 2, 2026
For details visit the Official Webpage of the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation’s Science Without Borders® Challenge.
