The Annual Rhode Island High School Chemistry Contest was first held in 1921 and established as an annual event in 1933 by Professor Joseph Waite Ince.
Generally, over twenty Rhode Island High Schools participate in the contest, typically bringing around 500 students. The competition consists of a one-hour, forty-five question, multiple choice examination, plus an optional, extra credit tie-breaker question. Prizes are awarded to the top team and top three individuals in each of two divisions. Division I comprises students with less than one full year of chemistry, but not AP chemistry. Division II comprises students with more than one year of high school chemistry.
The URI Chemistry Department welcomes new and returning schools to participate in the contest. The next Annual Rhode Island High School Chemistry Contest is scheduled for Friday, May 23, 2025. The test begins at 9:30 a.m. and prizes are awarded at noon in Chafee hall, Room 271. The tests are given at the University of Rhode Island in two locations: Beaupre Center 100 and Chafee Hall, Room 271. The Beaupre Center location is for the teams, limited to eight students, who are eligible for the prizes. Students who wish to take the test as individuals do so in Chafee Hall, Room 271. We hope to see you at the Annual Rhode Island High School Chemistry Contest.
The Annual Rhode Island High School Chemistry Contest is open to all qualified students. If you will or might bring any students with disabilities, we ask that you submit the appropriate form, accessible from the Registration page, at least one week in advance of the contest.