In a remarkable display of enthusiasm for science and technology education, a staggering 15,01,249 students from across India have registered for the National STEM Quiz 4.0. The quiz is orchestrated by the Gujarat Council on Science and Technology (GUJCOST), which operates under the state's Department of Science and Technology.
Unprecedented Participation and Quiz Structure
The massive registration numbers underscore a growing nationwide interest in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The quiz is strategically divided into two tiers: a Junior Level for students of Class IX and X, and a Senior Level for those in Class XI and XII. This structure ensures age-appropriate challenges for all participants.
The initiative was formally launched on September 19, 2025, by P Bharathi, Secretary of the DST. The registration window remained open until December 15, 2025, allowing students ample time to sign up for this prestigious event.
A Collaborative Effort to Ignite Young Minds
GUJCOST has not undertaken this venture alone. The National STEM Quiz 4.0 is a powerful collaboration with some of India's premier scientific institutions, including the Space Applications Centre (SAC-ISRO), Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), and the National Forensic Sciences University (NFSU) in Gandhinagar.
In an official statement, GUJCOST emphasized the quiz's core mission: to "foster curiosity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills" among the youth. The council believes the platform of quiz-based learning will strengthen foundational knowledge and help mold the future innovators and leaders of the nation.
Roadmap to the National Grand Finale
To aid in preparation, GUJCOST has created an extensive resource—a quiz bank containing over 7,000 questions spanning various STEM disciplines, tailored for both junior and senior levels.
The competition pathway is clearly defined. After registration, students will first attempt a mock test. This will be followed by an online preliminary test scheduled for January 2026. The top performers from this round will then progress to the zonal rounds.
The journey will culminate in a national grand finale at the Gujarat Science City in February 2026. Gujarat Science City acts as the venue partner, with Gujarat Informatics Limited (GIL) providing technological support for the smooth execution of the quiz.
The overwhelming response has been hailed by GUJCOST as a testament to the critical role of STEM education. The council stated that the participation highlights a collective aim to "spark a passion for science and technology, encouraging students to explore new frontiers and push the boundaries of innovation."
