The annual Congressional App Challenge works to inspire students across the country through hands-on practice with coding and computer science. The contest is an opportunity for young people to cultivate their skills in these STEM disciplines and to begin thinking about their futures in any of the many American industries that will rely on emerging technologies and STEM innovation in the coming years.
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in the Congressional App Challenge, you must be a middle or high school student at the time of app submission.
Students may register as individuals or as teams of up to four. No more than four students are allowed to form a team.
Students may compete in the district they reside in or the district they attend school in. If competing as a team, at least half of the teammates must be eligible to compete in the district in which they are participating in. If you are not sure whether you are a resident, Click here.
Students may use any programming language they choose, including C, C++, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, "block code," etc. You may design your app for any platform, including PC, web browser, tablet, mobile, robot, etc.
Registration
Pre-Registration for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge is now open. Students can pre-register for the 2025 Congressional App Challenge and start coding their apps for 2025 now.
Students can pre-register, here.
Important dates:
- May 1st: Congressional App Challenge officially launches.
- Students are eligible to register on this day, and may start submitting their full applications.
- October 30th: Student Applications Close.
- Student apps are due at 12pm EST.
If you have questions at any point during this process, please call our district office at (505) 428-4680.
Winners
The winning student’s app will be featured on the U.S. House of Representative’s website, as well as on display in a U.S. Capitol exhibit. There may be additional prizes sponsored by App Challenge official partners.
To learn more about the Congressional App Challenge Click here.
