The CIHR Canadian National Brain Bee is an annual neuroscience competition for students in grades 9 through 12. The Canadian program is coordinated by McMaster University volunteers with financial support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
Students first enter an official local Brain Bee in Canada; each local winner advances to the national competition. In 2026, the national stage began virtually and concluded with an in-person final in Montreal, after which the champion advanced to the International Brain Bee.
Benefits & funding
- First, second, and third place receive cash prizes of C$1,500, C$1,000, and C$500 respectively, plus trophies.
- Every national competitor receives an engraved medal.
- The top three from the virtual phase receive travel and accommodation for the in-person final.
- The national champion receives an opportunity for a neuroscience-lab internship and represents Canada at the International Brain Bee.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be high-school students in grades 9 through 12.
- Entry to the national stage is by invitation after winning first place at an official local Brain Bee in Canada.
- Local organizers publish their own registration dates, locations, formats, and study requirements.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
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Education required
High School
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Application process
- 1Find the official local Brain Bee closest to your high school on the Canadian program website.
- 2Follow that local organizer’s registration instructions and use the study material specified for that competition.
- 3Win first place locally to receive an invitation to the Canadian National Brain Bee.
- 4Compete in the virtual first phase; the top three advance to the in-person final.
- 5The national champion advances to the International Brain Bee.
Program timeline
Virtual first phase
Apr 24, 2026
In-person Final Showdown in Montreal
May 20, 2026