Premier Science Award

For questions, contact: 

Recognize 4-H member static exhibits incorporating or demonstrating concepts from the areas of 4-H Science (science, technology, engineering, or applied math) at the Nebraska State Fair. Exhibits in all curriculum areas will be considered for the award. 

Rules

1. Application 

  • 4-H members may select ONE exhibit from any department which was selected for state fair to complete their awards application about. 
  • Application form: go.unl.edu/NSFPremierScienceApp 
  • Applications are due by noon on Monday, August 1th. 
  • Entries are only judged on the information included in the application. 
  • Award applications need to include a photograph of the exhibit. The photograph will not be used for judging but is needed if the exhibit needs to be located in the exhibit hall. 
     

2. Judging 

  • A score sheet will be used to judge each exhibit. Exhibits which do not have a completed application or photograph can be disqualified at the discretion of the judge. 
  • 4-H members will be scored on how well they communicate their use of the Scientific Method or Engineering Design Process while completing their exhibit. 
  • An exhibit involving a science topic does not necessarily qualify it to be the best choice for this award. 
     

Advance Entry

Submit application by 12:00 pm C.T. on Monday, August 11th, 2025.

Entry Fees

Refer to the general rules at 4h.unl.edu/fairbook/general/rules.

Eligibility

The awards application and the exhibit selected for Nebraska State Fair which the application is written about must both be at state fair. Awards applications which do not accompany an exhibit (which has been checked in at the exhibits department) will be disqualified. 

Quota

NUMBER OF ENTRIES 

  • Individual - Only one application per exhibitor may be made in this area. 
  • County - Not defined in this area. 

 For more information refer to General Rules. 

Scoresheets, Forms, and Contest Study Materials

Scoresheets, forms, contest study materials, and additional resources can be found at http://go.unl.edu/ne4hpremierscienceaward.  

 There are many variations of the different steps in the scientific method and engineering design process. Examples can be found at the link above. 

Special Awards

Recognition 

  • All award applications entered will receive a participation certificate. No ribbons or premiums will be awarded. 
  • Up to three top exhibits will be chosen to receive a cash award sponsored by the Nebraska 4-H Foundation. A special recognition certificate will be placed on their exhibit to showcase their achievement 

Superintendents

  • Polacek, Sarah

4-H Fairbook | Nebraska State Fair