NATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM (NYSF)

STEM Programs

APPLICATIONS OPEN

NEXT EVENT

When | January 2024
Where | Brisbane or Canberra
Who | Year 12 Students (in 2024)
Cost | $2,850

OVERVIEW

NYSF is a not-for-profit organization which offers a variety of immersive and transformative youth-led experiences promoting science and science-related areas. The programs encourage young people in their passion for science. The programs are conducted for students entering Year 12 in January each year.
 
The program is designed to give students a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).  During the program, students have the opportunity to -
 
  • participate in tours of science and technology facilities;
  • learn about cutting-edge research;
  • engage with industry partners and research providers;
  • learn about study options and STEM career pathways;
  • mix with other like-minded students from all over Australia; and
  • network with former NYSF participants on STEM-related study and career pathways.
 
In addition to STEM workshops, participants also participate in sessions on entrepreneurship, critical thinking, science communication, working together effectively, and much more. The focus is not solely on academic achievements, but on developing well-rounded individuals who have the skills and confidence to determine their futures.
 
The incredible value of the Year 12 NYSF Program becomes clear in this report of the NYSF 2022 Program - download HERE.

Watch our new video on the NYSF Year 12 Program
showcasing highlights from the digital and in-person program in 2022!

APPLICATION PROCESS

Details on how to apply are listed on the NYSF website.  Please read below for an outline of the process.
STEP 1
Check Your Eligibility
 
If you answer yes to any of these questions, apply to attend the NYSF Year 12 Program. To apply, you must be -
 
  • In Year 11 in the year you apply, to attend the following January
  • enrolled in an Australian high school
  • considering pursuing further study or training and a career in a STEM-related discipline.
STEP 2
Start Application Online
 
Register and start completing the online application form on the NYSF website.  You can also download a guide to filling out the application form.
STEP 3
Choose a Fee Option
 
Choose an option for payment of the program (either self funded or supported by a Rotary Club).  If choosing to seek Rotary sponsorship, please reach out to your local Rotary Club.  If sponsorship is provided you will be asked to complete an NYSF Financial Agreement.
STEP 4
Pay your Application Fee
 

Once you have selected your fee option, you can progress to the payment tab, where you will be prompted to pay the application fee.  Once paid, your application will be complete, and you will receive a confirmation email.

Please note that the application fee is non-refundable, even for applicants not selected to attend the NYSF Year 12 Program.

STEP 5
Attend your District Interview
 

Once your application is submitted, the next step will be to attend the NYSF District Interviews.  Details of the District 9640 selection process for NYSF will be advised to all applicants after applications are approved.

Applicants must attend NYSF District Selection where they will be interviewed and assessed by a panel consisting of Rotarians and NYSF Alumni.  Please be aware that not all applicants are accepted for NYSF.
 
Successful applicants are advised at the end of the District Selection of further details.

FURTHER INFORMATION & RESOURCES

If you have any queries about NYSF, feel free to email us at nysf@rotary9640.org.
 
You can also visit the NYSF website or view the resources below to find out more about the NYSF program.

Real Life Insights

 
"Talent is not everything and if you're determined and put in the effort you can succeed in anything you put your mind to."
 
I owe my career as a nuclear engineer to the NYSF and the generosity of Rotary District 9640. I attended the NYSF 2008 Year 12 Program in the physics track. I didn't know much about physics at the time but my high school physics teacher let me talk his ear off before and after class about the cool things I read in Cosmos magazine. Physics was the most challenging subject for me at school, so I thought I would pursue it. I'm glad I did.
 
Click here to read the story of Sarah Don.
 
What happens at the NYSF Year 12 Program?