Scholarship Overview
What Is the Science Without Borders Challenge?
The Science Without Borders Challenge is an annual international art contest organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation. It engages primary and secondary school students worldwide in ocean science and conservation through creative expression. The contest is free to enter and awards scholarships to winning entries.
For 2027, the theme is “Navigate with Care,” sponsored by the International Foundation for Aids to Navigation (IFAN). Students are invited to create artwork showing how mariners can protect both people and marine life through safe, responsible navigation.
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Scholarship Awards and Prizes
Winners receive scholarships in the following amounts:
- 1st Place: $500
- 2nd Place: $350
- 3rd Place: $200
- People’s Choice Award: $50 (winners in each age group)
Prizes are awarded in two age categories: 11-14 and 15-19.
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Who Can Apply
Eligibility requirements are specific:
- Students aged 11-19 years old
- Enrolled in primary or secondary school, or equivalent home school program
- College and university students are not eligible
- Open to international applicants, including students from Zimbabwe and SADC countries
Each participant must have a teacher or art instructor vouch for their application.
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2027 Theme: Navigate with Care
Artwork must address how people can navigate safely and responsibly to protect marine life, conserve fragile ecosystems, and promote safety at sea. The goal is to demonstrate how responsible navigation helps people and nature coexist while safeguarding oceans for future generations.
Before creating artwork, review the contest rules and theme resources available on the official website.
Artwork Requirements
The contest accepts:
- Original 2-dimensional artwork created by hand
- Examples: paintings, drawings
- No digital or AI-generated art permitted
Semi-finalists must send original artwork to be eligible to win.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process
- Prepare your artwork: Create an original 2D piece addressing the “Navigate with Care” theme.
- Document your process: Take two photos of yourself creating the artwork at different stages (new requirement for 2027 to verify authenticity).
- Obtain teacher endorsement: Secure a teacher or art instructor to vouch for your application.
- Complete online entry form: Fill out the application on the official website.
- Upload materials: Submit a picture of your artwork and the two process photos.
- Parental consent (if under 13): Ensure parents provide required consent—do not wait until the last minute.
- Submit before deadline: All materials must be submitted by March 1, 2027, at 11:59 pm Eastern Time.
Important Dates
Entry Deadline: Monday, March 1, 2027, at 11:59 pm Eastern Time
The 2027 contest opens in Fall 2026. Sign up for the newsletter to receive notifications.
Tips for African Applicants
Students from Zimbabwe and SADC region should note:
- The competition is fully online, requiring only internet access and digital submission capability
- No travel or visa requirements
- Scholarship awards are paid in US dollars
- Teacher endorsement can come from any qualified educator, including home school supervisors
- Review past winners from 2013-2026 for inspiration and artistic standards
Resources for Teachers
The Living Oceans Foundation provides free resources for educators:
- Lesson plans related to the theme
- Grading rubrics
- Classroom handouts
Teachers interested in supporting students should review the Teacher Responsibilities section on the official website.
Judging Process
Artwork is evaluated by a panel of judges. Semi-finalists are selected from online submissions and must provide original artwork for final consideration. Winners are announced after complete evaluation.
