EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Six student scholars from three high schools in El Paso attended and competed for more than $9 million at the 2026 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair.

The fair was held from May 9 through May 15 in Phoenix, Arizona.

Officials reported that 1,800 high school scientists and engineers from more than 77 countries, regions, and territories were brought together for the event.

For the third year in a row, the qualifiers of the world’s largest pre-college STEM research competition were all young women, each having presented a research project:

To qualify for ISEF, the three female scholars advanced through the competitive Sun Country Regional Science and Engineering Fair held in February 2026.

Marina Itzel Lares-Garcia and Bella Vargas were each awarded one of the Special Awards from Arizona State University with scholarships valued at $32,000.

(Insights Science Discovery)

This significant honor recognizes scholarly merit and research excellence, officials said.

“ISEF is not only a competition, but a place where students find peers who are eager to learn, share, and welcome one another – they find their people and future colleagues,” Sun Country Science and Engineering Fair Director Alfred D. Olivas said. These young scientists and engineers are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are trailblazers in their respective fields today.”

Here are statements from the qualifiers:

“Attending ISEF was genuinely one of the most incredible and unforgettable experiences of my life. From meeting people from around the world to standing on a huge stage and stepping outside of my comfort zone, every second felt inspiring.” -Marina Itzel Lares Garcia

“My overall experience at ISEF was amazing! I met with so many people from all over the world and learned valuable skills in presentation during judging and community outreach day.”-Bella Vargas

“At ISEF, it is easy to forget that you have reached a huge milestone because of how competitive everyone is, but meeting friends and prioritizing experiences is the most important aspect of such a great opportunity. I am so grateful that I was able to gain so much more than I entered with from ISEF.”-Hanah Koh

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

 For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.