For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST)

Logo of For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST)

FIRST Robotics Competition

Go to FIRST Robotics Competition's website

Overview of FIRST Robotics Competition

Combining the excitement of sport with the rigors of science and technology, teams of high school students design, program, and build industrial-sized robots to play an action-packed game. They compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance. Teams also create a team identity, raise funds, and advance appreciation for STEM in their community.

📍Location

In-Person, Worldwide🌎

📅 Application deadlines

  • 18 nov 2025

    The program runs during the academic year, with the season kicking off in January and culminating in events and championships.

💸 Costs & Aid

  • 6300 USD
  • This is the registration fee for the 2025-2026 season for teams in the U.S. and Canada for participation in 1 Regional Event or 2 District Events. Additional events have additional fees. The fee includes an official team number, season registration, Kit of Parts, Kickoff Kit, Virtual Kit, FIRST Choice credits, free shipping of Kickoff Kit to a Local Kickoff (duties, taxes, and fees not included), eligibility for submitted Awards, participant/alum access to career discovery opportunities, connections to scholarships/employers, access to team roster, and event participation. Costs vary by region and event participation. Sales tax may apply.
  • FIRST is available to assist teams in securing funding. Registered teams receive complimentary access to fundraising tools and resources. Grants and sponsorships may also be available locally, regionally, and nationally.

Eligibility Requirements

📋 General Requirements

Each team needs 2 or more adult Mentors with both technical and non-technical expertise, a recommended 10 or more high school-aged students, a suitable meeting location, a standard kit of parts and a common set of rules, and a community sponsor(s). Teams should have the desire to learn, explore, strategize, build comradery, share ideas and talents, make new friends, be inclusive, and have fun.

👥 Age Requirements

High school-aged students. Ages may vary by region.

📚 Grade Requirements

High school-aged students.

🌍 Eligible Countries

High school student of Worldwide🌎

Application Process

Register the team on the FIRST Dashboard, create a team roster, and youth team members must register and complete the consent and release form annually.

📅 The program runs during the academic year, with the season kicking off in January and culminating in events and championships.

Duration

Academic season, from January to Championship

Application Deadlines

  • 18 nov 20251 Regional Event Registration

    Covers participation in one regional event.

    Application Fee:6300 USD
  • 21 ene 2026Additional Regional Event(s) Registration

    Covers participation in additional regional events.

    Application Fee:3000 USD

📅 The program runs during the academic year, with the season kicking off in January and culminating in events and championships.

Duration

Academic season, from January to Championship

Application Deadlines

  • 18 nov 20252 District Events Registration

    Covers participation in two district events.

    Application Fee:6300 USD
  • 21 ene 2026Additional Inter-District Plays Registration

    Covers participation in additional inter-district plays.

    Application Fee:1000 USD