Kipinä is a science competition for young people aged 14-20*, in which you have to submit a project or research. The competition is organised by TEK.
The Kipinä competition is used to select Finland's representatives for the EU Young Scientist competition! The EUCYS competition has several different categories where you can test your skills and creativity. Whether your passion is physics, chemistry, biology, mathematics or engineering, you're sure to find a challenge that suits you. The competition is also an opportunity to network with young people and professionals from all over Europe.
*The EUCYS age limit for 2026 is at least 14 years old (from September 1, 2026), but not more than 20 years old (by September 30, 2026).
Register now for the Kipinä workspace!
You can find the schedule and other important information further down this page.

Kipinä winners 2025
Congratulations to all who were awarded in TEK's Kipinä science competition!

Why should I participate?
- You get to show off your skills and knowledge.
- You could win great prizes.
- You get to network with other young people and professionals.
- You will gain valuable experience and feedback.
How do I take part?
- Register for the competition by 31st January 2026.
- Explore or invent. Make a report.
- Submit your work by 1st February 2026.
When will it happen?
- Pre-register by 31st January 2026.
- Official contest registration is open between 1st January and 1st February 2026.
- Submit your report by 1st February 2026.
- Finalists will be selected by 30th March 2026.
- Final event in April 2026.
Participating in Kipinä in more detail
What is EUCYS
The EU Contest for Young Scientists gives students the opportunity to compete with the best of their peers at European level and get guidance from some of the most prominent scientists in Europe.
EUCYS categories are: Biology / Chemistry / Computing / Engineering / Environment / Materials / Medicine / Mathematics / Physics / Social sciences
Timeline
June - December 2025:
- Pre-registration begins on 2nd June 2025
- You will receive an invitation link to the Kipinä Howspace workspace, where you can choose from over 40 language options. In the workspace, you can store and edit materials related to your project until the deadline. The workspace also allows direct contact with the organizers.
January 2026:
- Official registration is open between 1st January and 1st February.
- Finalize the project report.
February 1st 2026: PARTICIPATION DEADLINE
- Last day to submit the completed project.
February - March 2026:
- Project evaluation and feedback, preliminary selection.
March 2026:
- Preliminary selection completed.
- Finalists will be invited to the final event and will receive detailed instructions with the invitation.
April 2026:
- Final event and selection of Finland's EUCYS representatives.
May 2026:
- Registration and finalization of materials for the EU Young Scientists (EUCYS) competition.
June 2026:
- EUCYS registration deadline is the first Tuesday in June.
September 2026:
- Trip to the EUCYS event.
