Participants take a written test, which concentrates on aspects of coding, to qualify for the semifinal round of competition. Semifinalists develop a software program – in a designated amount of time – that accurately addresses an onsite problem.

Participants identify a societal issue, collect or compile data from various sources about the issue, and then produce documentation and a digital scientific poster about their findings. Semifinalists create a synopsis and digital visual representation of a data set provided in an onsite challenge.

Participants design, build, document, and test a robot assembled using open-sourced parts according to stated specifications and to meet the challenge of the yearly theme/problem. 

Participants use their knowledge of cutting-edge technologies, algorithm design, problem-solving principles, effective communication, and collaboration to design, implement, test, document, and present a software development project of educational or social value. Both semifinalists and finalists are determined based on the quality of the presentation and project.

Participants develop a solution to a problem (typically one from an industrial setting) presented onsite at the conference. They analyze the problem, build a computer-controlled mechanical model, program the model, demonstrate the programming and mechanical features of the model-solution in an interview, and provide instructions for evaluators to operate the model.

Participants design, build, and launch an E-rated online video game – with accompanying required documentation - that addresses the annual theme. Semifinalists participate in an interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise they gained during the development of the game.

Participants use video and 3D computer graphics tools and design processes to create a two-to-three-minute VR visualization (accompanied by supporting documentation) that addresses the annual theme. Semifinalists deliver a presentation about their visualization and participate in an interview.

Participants design, build, and launch a website that addresses the annual challenge. Semifinalists participate in an interview to demonstrate the knowledge and expertise gained during the development of the website.

To qualify for the semifinal round of competition, participants take a written test that concentrates on computer science and coding. Semifinalists demonstrate their programming knowledge by developing a solution to an onsite coding challenge.

The Technology Student Association (TSA) is a national, non-profit, career and technical student organization (CTSO) of more than 250,000 middle and high school students engaged in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Delivered through both in-school and distance learning formats, TSA provides STEM-based curriculum-integrated experiences through competitions, leadership and career awareness.

TSA chapters take the study of STEM beyond the classroom and give students the chance to pursue academic challenges among friends with similar goals and interests. TSA offers a group of seventeen (8 high school and 7 middle school) competitions that specifically address Computer Science and Information Technology.

TSA has an online affiliation system. For instructions on how to start a chapter, click here. If you have questions about affiliation, please email register@tsaweb.org.

The time involved in being a TSA chapter advisor varies with each advisor. Teachers who incorporate the competitive events into their curriculum often report a low time commitment, since using the TSA materials engages students more fully and provides an enhanced teaching and learning environment. Some teachers opt to have their chapter meet before or after school, then teachers control the frequency and length of time. Advisors typically report that the benefits of TSA justify the time investment. 

TSA offers three, curriculum-integrated, membership programs. Each chapter chooses the program that works best for the chapter. Click here to view the three levels of membership and state and national membership dues. The membership cost per student averages about $15.

TSA competitive events are designed to be incorporated into the curriculum and may also be used as the basis for a before- or after-school chapter. Chapter advisors decide which method works best for them. 

While many stand-alone CS competitions exist—TSA CS competitions provide a more comprehensive experience which include leadership activities and 21st century skills integration.

Assistance is available through the TSA state advisor (the individual who manages the TSA program and state TSA conference) and/or through the national TSA office. At your request, we also can arrange for a TSA mentor (an experienced TSA chapter advisor) to answer questions and help guide your chapter.