Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why should I enter projects in the MSRSF?
A: For one thing, it is a really neat experience for the students. They
each get the opportunity to do a cool project and talk about it with college
students, teachers, and professionals in the field. And there are some really
great prizes, too.
Q: What kind of prizes?
A: First place winners receive a scholarship to MSSU (graduating
high school senior in senior division) or a
cash prize (junior division and all others in senior division). Grand prizewinners (2 senior, 2 junior) win more
cash. Thanks to the Missouri Southern Foundation, the two senior grand
prizewinners get an all-expenses paid trip to the Intel International Science
and Engineering Fair, along with their sponsor. Plus, there are many special
awards of items like calculators and T-shirts.
Q: But isn't it a real pain to enter projects in the fair? I heard there
are a million forms to complete.
A: Well, it's not really that bad, and we will help you through it. Just
call or e-mail. Many projects need only an entry form plus three ISEF forms:
an adult sponsor checklist, a research plan, and an approval form.
Q: Yes, but when do the ISEF forms have to be completed?
A: They should be completed before research begins. This might be in
September or February (hopefully not later!) But we don't need them
until the entry date in March. We complete our section of the approval form
at the fair.
Q: But I heard that there are lots of forms that have to be submitted in
January.
A: Yes, some projects need approval before research can begin. Any projects
involving human subjects, vertebrate animals, pathogenic (or potentially
pathogenic) agents, recombinant DNA, hazardous substances, or human or other
vertebrate animal tissue must have prior approval from our Scientific Review
Committee. This is to ensure and document that proper protocols will be
followed. For example, a project in which vertebrate animals will likely die
is not permitted.
Q: What forms do I need for my project?
A: Use the
Rules Wizard for to help define what rules and regulations you need to be
certain you know and follow!
Q: Do I have to write an abstract?
A: No. The MSRSF does not require an abstract for entries. The two grand
prizewinners will be required to fill out the official ISEF abstract form
before advancing to the international fair.
Q: What category should my project be entered into?
A: Check out the
Intel ISEF
Category Descriptions. Projects entered into the wrong category may be
reassigned.
Q: My question is not answered here. What do I do?
A: Phone or e-mail us! Our contact information is available on the
Personnel page; just click on the link at the top of the page. Then we can
add your question to this FAQ page!
mssu.edu.