2027 AJAS Frequently Asked Questions
General
Who can attend AJAS?
What is AJAS?
The American Junior Academy of Sciences (AJAS) is the only US honor society recognizing America's premier high school students for outstanding original scientific research. Each state's or region's Academy of Science nominates high school students as AJAS delegates. The chosen delegates are then invited to attend the AJAS annual conference. The AJAS mission is to introduce, encourage, and accelerate pre-college students into the professional world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students who register, attend the conference, and present their original research at the AAAS Poster Session will receive an AJAS Fellowship. The AJAS is not a competition and there are no tests, scores, rankings, or grades. Learn more about AJAS.
What is the AAAS Annual Meeting?
The AAAS Annual Meeting is the world’s largest general scientific gathering, hosted by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. It brings together thousands of leading scientists, policymakers, journalists, and educators to discuss cutting-edge research, the intersection of science and public policy, and the societal impacts of technological innovation. AJAS registration includes admission to most AAAS events. Learn more about AAAS and the AAAS Annual Meeting.
Can parents attend?
Yes. Adults and parents who wish to attend AJAS need to complete their own registration. Adults and parents who do not register will not have access to conference areas or events.
Do Student Delegates need a chaperone to register and attend?
All AJAS student delegates under 18 must be accompanied by a registered and paid adult chaperone. One adult can chaperone multiple students
Is financial assistance available?
Currently, there are no scholarships or financial assistance available for 2027 AJAS.
Recommended:
What should I pack?
Suggestions:
Yes. While the conference schedule is full, students will have breaks throughout the conference to:
See the Conference Information page for the current meal schedule.
Do I need to bring my research poster?
Yes. Presentation of a poster showing your original scientific research at the AAAS Annual Meeting is strictly required to receive an AJAS fellowship. Click here for detailed poster requirements.
What if my flight is delayed?
If your flight into Chicago, IL is delayed and you will not make it to some of the scheduled events, please email admin@academiesofscience.org with your estimated time of arrival.
- Student delegates selected through their State or Regional Junior or Senior Academy of Science
- Approved At-Large Delegates from states or regions without an Academy pathway
- Academy delegates and adult chaperones
- Professional scientists and invited guests
What is AJAS?
The American Junior Academy of Sciences (AJAS) is the only US honor society recognizing America's premier high school students for outstanding original scientific research. Each state's or region's Academy of Science nominates high school students as AJAS delegates. The chosen delegates are then invited to attend the AJAS annual conference. The AJAS mission is to introduce, encourage, and accelerate pre-college students into the professional world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Students who register, attend the conference, and present their original research at the AAAS Poster Session will receive an AJAS Fellowship. The AJAS is not a competition and there are no tests, scores, rankings, or grades. Learn more about AJAS.
What is the AAAS Annual Meeting?
The AAAS Annual Meeting is the world’s largest general scientific gathering, hosted by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. It brings together thousands of leading scientists, policymakers, journalists, and educators to discuss cutting-edge research, the intersection of science and public policy, and the societal impacts of technological innovation. AJAS registration includes admission to most AAAS events. Learn more about AAAS and the AAAS Annual Meeting.
Can parents attend?
Yes. Adults and parents who wish to attend AJAS need to complete their own registration. Adults and parents who do not register will not have access to conference areas or events.
Do Student Delegates need a chaperone to register and attend?
All AJAS student delegates under 18 must be accompanied by a registered and paid adult chaperone. One adult can chaperone multiple students
Is financial assistance available?
Currently, there are no scholarships or financial assistance available for 2027 AJAS.
Preparing for the Conference
What should I wear?Recommended:
- Business casual for most conference events
- Professional attire for AJAS Poster Sessions, Breakfast with Scientists, and AAAS Poster Sessions
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Coat and winter clothing for Chicago in February
What should I pack?
Suggestions:
- Poster presentation materials
- Laptop/tablet
- Notebook
- Business cards (optional)
- Phone charger
- Professional clothing
- Comfortable shoes
- Winter coat, gloves, hat
- Final research poster
- Presentation practice
- Elevator pitch
- Research presentation slides for Research Roundtable (on a laptop or tablet)
Yes. While the conference schedule is full, students will have breaks throughout the conference to:
- Attend the AAAS meeting events
- Meet, socialize, and share research with other students
- Network with scientists
- Visit the AAAS Exhibit Hall
- Explore downtown Chicago, IL
See the Conference Information page for the current meal schedule.
Do I need to bring my research poster?
Yes. Presentation of a poster showing your original scientific research at the AAAS Annual Meeting is strictly required to receive an AJAS fellowship. Click here for detailed poster requirements.
What if my flight is delayed?
If your flight into Chicago, IL is delayed and you will not make it to some of the scheduled events, please email admin@academiesofscience.org with your estimated time of arrival.