IAPS Outreach Video Competition (OVC)

The IAPS Outreach Video Competition (OVC) is an international science communication contest organized by the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS).

Theme

Open Topic in Physics

Open to everyone — no membership required

Overview

The IAPS Outreach Video Competition (OVC) is an international science communication contest organized by the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS). The competition aims to encourage students and early-career scientists from around the world to engage in physics outreach by creating short, accessible, and engaging educational videos for a broad audience.

Participants are invited to produce a maximum 5-minute outreach video explaining a physics-related concept in a clear, creative, and scientifically accurate way. Videos must be in English with subtitles to be eligible.

What is the OVC?

The IAPS Outreach Video Competition is an international initiative designed to bridge the gap between complex physics and the general public. Organized by the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), this contest challenges students and early-career scientists to step out of the lab and into the spotlight.

The goal is simple: create a short, engaging video (up to 5 minutes) that explains a physics concept in a way that anyone can understand and enjoy. We believe that being a great scientist also means being a great communicator.

Why should you participate?

This is more than just a contest; it is a platform to showcase your creativity and passion for science. You don't need professional cameras or a film studio, a smartphone and a good idea are all it takes!

By joining the OVC, you will:

Develop key skills in science communication and digital storytelling.
Gain global visibility as your work is featured on international IAPS platforms.
Compete for exciting prizes, including cash rewards and a speaking slot at ICPS.

Are you ready to inspire? Whether it’s through animation, a home experiment, or a clever skit, we want to see how you see physics. Break down the theories, spark curiosity, and help us show the world why physics matters.

Timeline

Start — January 1st
Submissions open

Submission deadline — February 28th
Final video submissions due

Winners announced — Mid-March
Announcement on IAPS channels

Rules & Requirements

Eligibility: Open worldwide to physics students. Both individual and team submissions (up to 3 members) are allowed.
Length: Maximum of 5 minutes.
Language: English; subtitles are mandatory.
Topic: Open theme. Any topic related to physics is acceptable.
Submission: Upload your video to Google Drive or a public platform (YouTube, TikTok, etc.) and submit the link via the official form.
If you post on social media, use the hashtag #iapsovc.
For detailed information, please see the Guidelines Document.

Judging Criteria

Scientific Accuracy & Depth (30pts)
Communication & Storytelling (40pts)
Creativity & Engagement (20pts)
Accessibility & Resourcefulness (10pts)

Prizes

1st Prize: 150 EUR, an ICPS 2026 fee waiver, and a speaking slot.
2nd Prize: 100 EUR.
Certificates for Honorary Awards (Best Creativity, Best Narration, etc.).
Winning videos will be featured on IAPS platforms.

Quick Registration

Final Video Submission

When you are ready, submit the public link to your video (from YouTube, Google Drive, etc.) using the form below.

Competition Coordinator

For questions or clarifications, please contact the IAPS organizing committee.

Outreach Contact: outreach@iaps.info