The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) National Science Bowl® is a nationwide academic competition that tests students’ knowledge in all areas of science and mathematics. Middle and high school student teams comprised of four students, one alternate, and a teacher who serves as an advisor and coach. These teams face-off in a fast-paced question-and-answer format, being tested on a range of science disciplines including biology, chemistry, earth science, physics, energy, and math. This year's DOE Pacific Northwest Regional Science Bowl will be held in-person competition on February 21, 2026 at Columbia Basin College. 

DOE created the National Science Bowl in 1991 to encourage students to excel in mathematics and science and to pursue careers in these fields. More than 300,000 students have participated in the National Science Bowl throughout its history, and it is one of the nation’s largest science competitions.

Beginning in January 2026, more than 9,000 high school students and 4,500 middle school students will compete in 65 high school and 50 middle school regional Science Bowl tournaments. DOE's Office of Science manages the National Science Bowl and sponsors the NSB finals competition. DOE-SC is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.