Future City Competition

Organization: DiscoverE

Program Overview

Design city of the future. Teams create models, essays, and presentations for national finals in DC.

The **Future City Competition**, organized by **DiscoverE**, is a project-based STEM program where middle and high school students work in teams to design a city set at least 100 years in the future. Participants research real-world engineering and urban planning challenges, develop solutions, and then bring their ideas to life through a written essay, a scale model, and a team presentation. Top teams advance through regional events to the national finals in Washington, D.C. This program is a strong fit for students interested in **engineering**, **architecture**, **environmental science**, **public policy**, or **urban design**, as well as those who enjoy teamwork and long-term projects. Participants build skills in: - **Problem-solving and systems thinking** - **Research and technical writing** - **Public speaking and visual communication** - **Collaboration and project management** Future City can be a meaningful addition to college applications, especially for students considering STEM or design-related majors. The program allows students to demonstrate sustained commitment, leadership within a team, and the ability to apply math and science concepts to complex, real-world issues. Students typically participate through their school or a sponsoring organization, under the guidance of an educator and an engineering or technical mentor. For more details on how to join or start a team, visit the official website.

Program Details

Key facts about Future City Competition
CategorySTEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math)
FormatIn-Person
CostFree
Eligibility (grade level)Grades 6-8
LocationWashington, DC
Application DeadlineOctober 31, 2026 (deadline verified July 4, 2026)
CountryUSA
Listing last updatedJuly 4, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Future City Competition cost?

Future City Competition is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

What is the application deadline for Future City Competition?

The application deadline is October 31, 2026 (deadline last verified July 4, 2026). Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

Who is eligible for Future City Competition?

Future City Competition is open to middle school students in grades 6–8. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

Is Future City Competition online or in person?

Future City Competition is an in-person program based in Washington, DC.

How do I apply to Future City Competition?

Apply directly through DiscoverE's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Visit the official program website: DiscoverE