INTERESTED IN THE 2026 NYSF YEAR 12 PROGRAM?

Sign up here to receive an alert when applications for the 2026 NYSF Year 12 Program open! The below information is for the 2026 NYSF Year 12 Program. 

The National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) Year 12 Program is designed to give students a broader understanding of the diverse study and career options available in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and to encourage continued studies in these fields.​

In 2024, the NYSF Year 12 Program runs two summer sessions in January :

1. The Australian National University, Canberra
2. The University of Queensland, Brisbane

Participants stay at university colleges and are immersed in science and technology, and 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 university, training and STEM career pathways,
• mix with other like-minded students from all over Australia,
• participate in social and team building activities, and
• network with former NYSF participants.

Delivered by youth for youth, past participants return each year to participate in the Student Staff Leadership Program and help run the program the year after they first attend.

COST

The program fee for the NYSF Year 12 Program in 2026 is $2850. There is a $65 application fee. 

If required, we encourage students to seek financial support from NYSF’s founding partner, Rotary Australia, by contacting their local Rotary Club. Many are familiar with the NYSF and able to offer some level of funding or assist students to fundraise. NYSF does offer a limited number of NYSF Access and Equity Scholarships; all students can apply for these after they are offered a place.

Students will be invoiced for their program fee once they have accepted their place, however fees are not due until November 2026.

ACCOMMODATION AND TRAVEL

The program fee covers all meals, accommodation, and participation in events during the program. Participants must make their own way to and from Canberra or Brisbane.

AFTER JANUARY

NYSF will also offer state-based mini-hubs during the April and July school holidays. These include day visits (non-residential) to local STEM organisations, and most hubs will run for between 3-8 days in a variety of different state locations. Further information on these and how to apply will be released in early 2026. Students do not have to have attended the NYSF Year 12 Program in January to attend a mini-hub; some may choose to do both. The mini-hubs are a separate offering and will incur an additional fee.

THE VALUE OF A ROTARY-SUPPORTED PLACE

Students are encouraged to approach Rotary Clubs if they need funding support to attend the NYSF Year 12 Program (the earlier the better). Rotary Clubs are not obligated to support students.

Students that are funded by Rotary to attend the Program often retain contact with their supporting Rotary Club long-term and go on to further hone their leadership skills through Rotary youth pathways.

In return for their support, students are often required to report back to their supporting Rotary Club by giving a presentation on their NYSF experience or attending other Rotary events.