Find Extracurricular Activities
ULIO helps high school and college students discover extracurricular activities, competitions, research opportunities, special programs and other experiences beyond regular coursework.
Students can search activities by name, subject or interest and narrow opportunities by country. The public Activities page provides up to three matching activity previews before account access is required.
Featured extracurricular activities
STEM / MATHEMATICS
International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)
Challenge your mathematical problem-solving skills at one of the world’s most established competitions, bringing together talented students from countries around the globe.
Competition
STEM / RESEARCH
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
Showcase original science and engineering research alongside talented student innovators from around the world at a leading international pre-college research competition.
Research Fair
STEM / ROBOTICS
FIRST Robotics Competition
Design, build and program an industrial-sized robot with a team while developing engineering, strategy, problem-solving and collaboration skills through competitive challenges.
Team Competition
LEADERSHIP / SERVICE
The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
Develop skills beyond the classroom through volunteering, physical activity, personal interests and adventurous experiences while working towards an internationally recognised Award.
Award Program
ARTS / PHOTOGRAPHY
Sony World Photography Awards – Youth Competition
Put your creativity behind the lens and share original photography through a global competition designed to recognise and showcase talented young photographers.
Competition
Explore different types of extracurricular activities
- Competitions and academic challenges
- Research, conferences and publication opportunities
- Special programs for exploring subjects, skills and careers
- Academic exams and other structured opportunities
How to choose an extracurricular activity
Start with subjects or skills you genuinely want to explore, then compare activity format, important dates, eligibility requirements and location. Dates, costs and requirements can change, so review the official activity website before registering or applying.
Why extracurricular activities matter for students
Extracurricular activities can help students explore interests, build practical skills and develop meaningful experiences that they can reflect on in future university, scholarship or internship applications.
Frequently asked questions about extracurricular activities
What are extracurricular activities?
Extracurricular activities are experiences students pursue outside their normal academic coursework, such as competitions, research, special programs, conferences, projects and other academic or skill-building opportunities.
What extracurricular activities can students participate in?
Students can explore competitions, research opportunities, academic programs, conferences, projects and many other activities depending on their interests, education level, location and eligibility.
How can I find extracurricular activities?
Use ULIO Activities to search by activity name, subject or interest and narrow opportunities by country. You can preview up to three matching activities before creating an account.
How do I choose the right extracurricular activity?
Start with activities related to subjects or skills you genuinely want to explore. Then compare factors such as eligibility, location, activity format, dates, requirements and the time commitment involved.
Do extracurricular activities help with university applications?
Extracurricular experiences can help students demonstrate interests, skills, initiative and sustained involvement. Their value depends more on what a student actually does and learns than on simply participating in a large number of activities.
Are competitions and research programs extracurricular activities?
Yes. Competitions, research programs, conferences, academic programs and similar experiences can all form part of a student's extracurricular involvement outside regular coursework.
Are activity deadlines and requirements always the same?
No. Dates, eligibility rules, costs and program formats can change between cycles. Always check the activity's official website before registering or applying.