UAS4STEM is not just a drone competition
— it’s your launchpad into the world of cutting-edge aerospace innovation!
Student teams design, build, program, and fly their own drones in a mission-driven
challenge that develops creativity, coding, and engineering skills.
No experience? No problem.
You’ll learn by doing, growing your skills as you go. Whether you’re just starting out or already flying high, there’s a Beginner and Advanced division to match your experience level. And the best part? You can compete from anywhere in the world!
Build the drone.
Program the systems.
Fly the mission.
Compete globally.
Ready to take off? Gather your crew to start your journey into drone innovation- registration opens September 1, along with the financial assistance application for new teams!
Key dates for the 2026 season:
- Funding assistance application deadline: October 13, 2025
- Team manager meetings: Second Monday of each month @ 7:00 PM ET
- Registration deadline: January 12, 2026 (start earlier for success!)
- Virtual preliminary competition: Tuesday April 14-Wednesday April 29, 2026
- Championship competition (by invitation): July 20-22 2026 at AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI
Hear from former competitor Robbie about how UAS4STEM launched his drone career, and why he gives back as a volunteer guest judge.
Top-scoring teams from the virtual preliminary competition (held the last two weeks of April) are invited to the in-person championship competition at EAA’s AirVenture at the end of July.
New teams can apply for financial assistance, which covers most of the registration fee and provides a drone kit. Application opens September 1. Apply by October 13.
Registration for the 2026 season opens September 1, 2025.
UAS4STEM is an educational program of the Academy of Model Aeronautics.
Academy of Model Aeronautics
5161 E Memorial Dr
Muncie, IN 47302