FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the Golden Gate STEM Fair.

Does every student need a teacher sponsor?
Yes, but the sponsor doesn’t have to be the student’s current teacher.
Do students need to file animal papers even if they are only observing live animals?
Yes. The forms can be found on our Forms and Information page.
If I’m doing a project involving humans, how do I use the Informed Consent Forms?
Have them filled out and signed by the parents of every student participating in the study. Keep the forms is a safe place in case they are needed. They are for your protection and the protection of your school. The forms can be found on our Forms and Information page.
Is electricity available for projects at the Fair?
Electricity is not available for projects.
Do some projects require the filing of special papers?
Students doing projects involving invertebrate or vertebrate animals, human subjects, recombinant DNA, tissue, pathogenic agents, or controlled substances, need to file Scientific Review Committee Proposal Papers with the Golden Gate STEM Fair before they begin their research. These papers are available from sponsoring teachers, or from the Golden Gate STEM Fair website. These papers must be filed before February 1st. Students who are hoping to participate in the Golden Gate STEM Fair should file papers even though they do not know whether they will be eligible for the Fair this year.
Are school quotas the same from year to year?
No, but they don’t vary a great deal, generally. Quotas vary because the requests for project space vary from year to year. Also, the project space available to us is not always the same.
Are there items that I should not put on my project display?
Yes: plants, animals, plant parts, dirt, liquids, chemicals, bacteria samples should not be brought to the Fair. If you’re not sure, leave it at home and use pictures instead.

Forms & Information

Find guidelines, deadlines, forms and information you will need to participate in the Golden Gate STEM Fair

Fair Director & Teacher Information

If your students do not come through a feeder fair, fair directors and teachers can request registration materials here

Dates & Deadlines

Stay aware of all updated Deadlines and Important Dates!