About The Contest
What is the NPAE?
The National Physics Applications Examination (NPAE) challenges students across the United States to go beyond textbooks and apply physics to real-world problems. From energy systems to transportation logistics, students will showcase critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving in a three-round national competition.
At A Glance
The National Physics Applications Examination (NPAE) is among the nation’s most prestigious high school physics competitions. Recognized by educators and valued on college applications, the NPAE is a powerful way to stand out to admissions officers and get ahead of your peers.
In a world where knowledge is abundant but problem-solving skills are rare, the NPAE promotes the ability to apply physics to real-world challenges.
The NPAE is a unique opportunity for students to showcase their ability to think like a physicist. While expecting only a basic foundation in high school physics, we are confident every participant will gain the chance to explore, innovate, and excel through challenging applied case studies and problem-solving exercises.
By participating in the NPAE, students join a growing nationwide network of ambitious young thinkers, fostering a deeper passion for STEM. The NPAE prepares students for future careers in engineering, technology, research, and innovation — equipping them to become the problem-solvers and leaders of tomorrow’s world.
What Makes the NPAE Different?
Admissions officers are not impressed by most economics competitions because they do not recognize the thinking skills required to have an real economist's mindset. The 3 common challenges are:
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1. They only test rote textbook knowledge.
As a result, the winners are only those who memorize their textbooks, not those who can truly apply economic principles in real-world contexts.
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2. Participants spend weeks preparing for the exam, but forget everything after.
Which doesn't help real physicists!
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3. They are very expensive to attend
We try to make registration as accessible to all, promoting not only physics education but also equal accessibility to education.
The NPAE resolves these:
Innovative Competition Structure
Round 1 consists of a 20-question multiple choice exam needing rigorous problem-solving ability. Round 2 consists of a mix of free-response and multiple choice questions (10 MCQ, 10 FRQ).
Round 3 is a special real-world case study where participants will need to apply physics principles to the real world.
No Barriers to Entry
We keep registration costs as low as possible. Rounds 1, 2, and 3 of examination are totally virtual, with AI-online proctoring for all rounds. All rounds are designed in such a way that only true problem-solvers advance — so there’s no advantage to cutting corners.
Participation Stats:
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500+ Schools
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1000+ Students
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50 States