Stockholm Junior Water Prize

The Stockholm Junior Water Prize (SJWP) is considered the world’s most prestigious award presented to a high school student for a water-research project. The Water Environment Federation (WEF) has coordinated the U.S. competition since its inception in 1997, and partners closely with their Member Association (MA) to execute the program.

Initially a paper competition from 1997-2001, the eligible projects were gleaned from the regional and state international Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) by Member Association (MA) appointed judges. In 2002, the MAs sent their state winners to the first onsite event that was jointly hosted in Dallas, TX by WEF and the Water Environment Association of Texas. The event was modeled after the international event, including three days of competition and social activities, and up until 2013, was the U.S. model.

Download and share this flyer with someone you know. Applications are due April 15.

Find more information on the Stockholm Junior Water Prize

For a list of state winners: 2025 Winners

Watch the WEF Website for the entry deadline

The winner of the California SJWP prize will receive:

1. A complimentary trip to the national competition. CWEA and WEF will cover the cost of airfare, hotel and meals for the student.
2. $500 cash prize*
3. California SJWP medal and one-year WEF student membership
4. A certificate recognizing the student’s contribution to the water environment
5. An invitation to speak at CWEA’s Annual Conference the following year
6. Winning paper published online
7. Complimentary CWEA student membership for one year
   *CWEA will also award 2nd and 3rd place winners with a cash prize of $300 and $100

The criteria for SJWP entries are:

• Water-science research project aimed at enhancing the quality of life at the local, regional or global level
• Open to all high school students, grades 9-12 and ages 15-20
• Projects may be done individually or by a team of up to three students
• The competition is open to public high schools, private schools, homeschools, and independent projects not associated with a school

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