Computer Science has increasingly become a flooded field, with millions of applicants each year filling up undergraduate CS programs at top universities in the blink of an eye. If you’re passionate about CS and want to take your college application to the next level, consider the following programs to supplement your application:

1. USA Computing Olympiad (USACO)

Field: Computer Science, Competitive Programming
Cost: Free
Website: USACO

One of the most prestigious computer science competitions for high school students, USACO is the gateway to the International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI). The competition consists of many algorithmic programming challenges that test problem-solving skills, computational thinking, and mastery of data structures. Participants can compete in Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum divisions, with the top performers earning the opportunity to represent the United States at the IOI. The competition is highly selective and requires a strong understanding of coding languages such as C++, Java, or Python, as well as an advanced understanding of time complexity, graph theory, and dynamic programming.

2. Congressional App Challenge

Field: Computer Science, App Development
Cost: Free
Website: Congressional App Challenge

Designed to encourage innovation in coding among middle and high school students, the Congressional App Challenge invites students to develop creative and impactful apps. Students compete within their congressional district, with winning projects displayed in the U.S. Capitol and featured on the House of Representatives website. Winners also receive invitations to an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. This competition is an excellent opportunity for students looking to gain hands-on experience in mobile and web app development while addressing real-world problems.

3. Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) – Robotics and Intelligent Machines

Field: Computer Science, Robotics, AI
Cost: Free
Website: ISEF

A world-renowned research competition for high school students, ISEF provides a platform for students to showcase their work in 22 STEM categories, including Robotics and Intelligent Machines. To compete, participants must first qualify through a regional or state-affiliated fair. The competition emphasizes innovation in computational biology, artificial intelligence, and engineering mechanics, offering nearly $5 million in scholarships and awards. ISEF is an excellent opportunity for students interested in applying computer science to emerging fields such as automation and machine learning.

4. Solve for Tomorrow | Samsung US

Field: Computer Science, STEM Innovation
Cost: Free
Website: Solve for Tomorrow

This highly competitive team-based event encourages students to use STEM knowledge to solve important community issues. Participants work in groups, guided by teachers and industry mentors, to develop innovative prototypes using coding, engineering, and design thinking. Winning teams receive large sums of cash and national recognition. The competition is ideal for students looking to use their technical skills in a hands-on, problem-solving environment.

5. VEX Robotics Competition

Field: Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering
Cost: Varies (team registration required)
Website: VEX Robotics

An internationally recognized robotics competition, VEX challenges students to design, build, and program autonomous robots to complete various challenges. With a combination of hands-on engineering and algorithmic programming, participants must use RobotC, VEXcode, and sensor feedback mechanisms to boost their robot’s performance. The competition consists of many scrimmages and rounds, which lead to the VEX World Championship.

6. American Computer Science League (ACSL)

Field: Computer Science, Competitive Coding
Cost: Free
Website: ACSL

A long-standing computer science competition for K-12 students, ACSL consists of multiple rounds focusing on algorithmic problem-solving, digital electronics, Boolean algebra, and number systems. The upper divisions also require students to solve coding challenges in Python, Java, or C++. The competition is divided into four contests throughout the school year, leading to an invitational All-Star contest.

7. Microsoft Imagine Cup

Field: Computer Science, AI, Software Development
Cost: Free
Website: Imagine Cup

Sponsored by Microsoft, the Imagine Cup is a global technology competition that encourages students to create innovative solutions using Microsoft Azure. Participants can compete in AI, Social Impact, and Mixed Reality tracks, designing applications that address real-world challenges. Winning teams receive $100,000 in prizes, mentorship from Microsoft experts, and potential grant funding.

8. Stanford ProCo (Programming Contest)

Field: Computer Science, Competitive Programming
Cost: Free
Website: Stanford ProCo

Modeled after the ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest, Stanford ProCo is a 3-hour competition where high school teams solve 9-15 algorithmic problems. Participants must use C, C++, Java, or Python to solve complex coding challenges that test efficiency, debugging skills, and mathematical logic. The competition has both novice and advanced divisions.

9. Technology Student Association (TSA) Competitions

Field: Computer Science, Engineering, Robotics
Cost: Varies (state and national registration required)
Website: TSA

Hosting numerous local, state, and national competitions in areas such as coding, computer-aided design, and robotics, the Technology Student Association is a great opportunity in which students can compete individually or in teams, engaging in events that range from game design to cybersecurity and software development.

10. Harker Programming Invitational

Field: Computer Science, Competitive Programming
Cost: Free
Website: Harker Programming Invitational

Similar in format to USACO and Stanford ProCo, the Harker Programming Invitational is an annual competition where high school students compete in teams of up to three. The contest lasts for two hours, during which teams solve 10 unweighted problems using Python, Java, or C++. Participants can choose between novice and advanced categories.

Speaking about ISEF, here’s a great video to check out if you’re looking into competing next year:
The Blueprint to Win Science Fair in 2024 - How to Win Regeneron ISEF

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