2026 Minds Underground™ STEM Essay Competition
The Minds Underground™ STEM Essay Competition 2026 invites students in Year 12 (and ambitious entrants in Years 10–11 or university re-applicants in Year 13) to engage critically with scientific ideas shaping our world. Across five disciplines - Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, and Computer Science - students are encouraged to explore questions that cross traditional subject boundaries, combining creativity, logic, and research to develop insightful arguments.
Open to UK and international students, this competition is ideal for those considering university degrees in STEM or related fields. Entrants must choose one question from any of the categories below and submit a well-structured essay that demonstrates curiosity, analytical thinking, and a flair for scientific communication. Students may enter more than 1 category for the STEM competition (fill a separate submission form if entering for more than one subject).
The 2026 Minds Underground STEM Essay Competition questions are now live. Submit by 3 April 2026!
2026 Biology Essay Competition Questions
01.
Does biodiversity matter if ecosystems function without it?
02.
Should we bring extinct species back to life?
2026 Chemistry Essay Competition Questions
01.
Could chemistry ever solve the energy crisis?
02.
Are plastics essential or obsolete?
2026 Physics Essay Competition Questions
01.
Does time truly exist?
02.
Is physics discovering reality, or constructing models of it?
2026 Computer Science Essay Competition Questions
01.
Could AI ever deserve legal rights?
02.
Is cybersecurity more about people than machines?
2026 Maths Essay Competition Questions
01.
Infinity seems impossible - so how can it be useful?
02.
How do patterns in nature relate to mathematical laws?
Are you in Year 11/12 & Thinking of Pursuing a STEM Degree at a top UK University/ Oxbridge/ Ivy League?
We offer a range of exciting opportunities for students aspiring to a degree in any of the sciences at a leading university:
Research Projects in exciting current fields with subject experts
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Long-term Oxbridge mentoring: Boosting knowledge beyond the curriculum, preparing for personal statement and interviews - visit our on-curriculum site, U2 Tuition for more information: https://www.u2tuition.com/oxbridge-mentoring
Interested in a STEM Competition Mentor? Looking for specialist support researching & writing? Our Oxbridge-educated masterminds are here to help! Sessions from £75/h + VAT. Enquire here