Rube Goldberg Machine Contest for High School Division

Location:

Held both in-person at regional qualifiers across the U.S. (e.g., Purdue Armory in West Lafayette, IN) and virtually via video submission for the Online RGMC

Cost:

$79 registration fee per team

Contest Date:

World Championship held March 29, 2025; regional and online deadlines vary (e.g. Online video submissions deadline July 4, 2025); registration for 2026 closes March 16, 2026

Application Deadlines:

For the Online contest the deadline was July 4, 2025; team registration for the 2026 live competition closes March 16, 2026

Eligibility:

Open to students in grades K–12 (with a high school division for grades 9–12); teams must include a coach/adult; machine must complete annual task in 10–75 steps

This STEM-focused design challenge has students plan, build, and execute whimsical chain‑reaction machines to accomplish a simple task in as many steps as possible—blending engineering, creativity, reliability, and performance under time limits. Judging considers technical execution, artistry, theme, teamwork, and fun in the “Goldberg spirit.” Regional winners advance to the national/world championship at Purdue University each spring.

Learn More

Please note: This information is compiled from publicly available sources and may change from year to year. Dates, locations, fees, and other details are subject to updates—please verify all information directly on the official competition website before applying.