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    Competition Prep Guide

    Stockholm Junior Water Prize

    International environmental research competition. US winner advances to Sweden during World Water Week.

    Eligibility

    • Ages 15–20 (as of August of competition year)
    • Project must address a water-quality, conservation, treatment, or resources problem
    • Individual or team (max 3) projects
    • Qualify through state competition to reach US nationals

    Annual Timeline

    1. Fall–Spring

      Develop and execute water-related research project

    2. Mar–Apr

      Submit to state Stockholm Water Prize competition

    3. April 15

      State submission deadline

    4. June

      US National Stockholm Junior Water Prize

    5. August

      International final in Stockholm during World Water Week

    Preparation Strategy

    1

    Pick a locally rooted problem

    Top US winners typically address a specific local water issue (algal blooms, lead contamination, agricultural runoff) rather than abstract global problems.

    2

    Use real water-quality testing methods

    Judges expect proper sampling protocols, lab-grade analysis (or partnerships with labs), and statistical rigor.

    3

    Document social impact clearly

    The Prize's mission emphasizes water as a social-environmental issue. Connect your science to community impact explicitly.

    4

    Prepare for international stage

    If selected as US winner, you'll present in English to a global panel and royal jury. Practice for non-American audiences.

    Common Pitfalls

    • Skipping IRB/safety review for projects involving public water sources.
    • Underdocumenting methodology — judges score reproducibility heavily.
    • Forgetting state-level deadlines, which are weeks before national.

    Official Resources

    Book Strategy Session

    Get a personalized prep plan for Stockholm Junior Water Prize from a senior counselor.

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