May: what BC parents need to know
Contests and programs where families usually register, apply or take part in May. Exact dates are on each page and marked when confirmed.
ELMACON Elementary Mathematics Competition
BC's own math competition for Grades 5–7, held in person at UBC on a Saturday in late April or early May. Parents register online.
Grades 5–7$40 last yearMathGauss Mathematics Contest
Canada's best-known middle school math contest for Grades 7 and 8. Written at school between May 10 and 21, 2027.
Grades 7–8$5 per studentMathMath Challengers BC
BC's team and individual math competition for Grades 8–10. Schools register by January 15, 2027. Lower Mainland regionals are expected February 20.
Grades 8–10Paid by the school: from $50…CodingFIRST Tech Challenge in BC
Team robotics for Grades 7–12. Teams design, build and code a robot. The Lower Mainland qualifier is December 5, 2026 in Surrey.
Grades 7–12Paid per teamScienceScience World Future Science Leaders
A school-year STEM program at Science World for students entering Grade 10 or 11. Students apply in the spring before the program starts.
Grades 9–11About $1Language & readingVancouver Writers Fest Youth Writing Contest
A free-to-enter short story and personal essay contest for BC students in Grades 5–12. The next contest opens in spring 2027.
Grades 5–12No entry fee is listedLanguage & readingSurrey Libraries Youth Writing Contest
A free writing contest for Surrey residents aged about 12 to 18, with categories for short stories, poems, comics and more. Usually open from May to July.
Grades 7–12FreeArts, music & chessBC Youth Chess Championship and Canadian Youth Chess Championship
Rated chess tournaments for players under 18. Score 50% at a qualifier, such as the BC Youth Chess Championship, to play at the national CYCC each July.
K–Grade 12Varies by tournament