📌About the Event

The COBIS Research Skills Competition 2026–27 is an international academic competition that gives students aged 14–18 the opportunity to investigate a subject they are passionate about and prepare an independent research report. Conducted by the Council of British International Schools in partnership with GEC Academy, the competition aims to develop critical thinking, academic writing, research analysis, time management and independent learning skills. Students may select a topic from any academic discipline, provided the research is ethical, appropriate and academically sound.

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ℹ️ Event Details

• Mode of conduct: Online
• Participation format: Individual student research project
• Main submission: An independent research report on a topic selected by the student
• Subject areas: Students may choose any subject or research topic; there are no fixed subject categories.
• Competition period: 11 January to 22 February 2027
• Registration method: Registration must be completed by a member of the school staff through the official COBIS online form.
• Organising partners: Council of British International Schools and GEC Academy
• Supported by: Laser Awards
• Skills developed: Independent research, critical evaluation, academic writing, communication, time management and self-directed learning.

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📅 Important Dates

• Registration deadline: 19 November 2026 at midday GMT
• Research competition begins: 11 January 2027
• Submission window opens: 11 January 2027
• Final submission deadline: 22 February 2027 at midday GMT

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🎯 Eligibility & Rules

• Who can participate:
  • The competition is open to students aged 14–18.
  • Eligible participants should be studying in Key Stage 4 or Key Stage 5, broadly corresponding to Years 10–13.
  • Students must be enrolled at a COBIS member school or COBIS applicant school.
  • Non-member schools will not be permitted to participate.
  • Each participating school must enter through its registered COBIS account.
  • Entries may only be submitted for genuine students currently studying at the registered school.
  • Indian students may participate only when their school is a COBIS member or applicant school; independent student registrations are not accepted.
  • All registrations and bookings must be completed by school staff.

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🏆 Benefits for the Participants

• The top three student winners will receive:
  • A £50 Amazon Gift Card
  • Featured coverage on the COBIS and GEC Academy platforms
  • A 20% scholarship for a future GEC Pathway research project
  • An Ofqual-regulated Level 3 Research Skills Certificate
  • The Level 3 certificate carries 8 UCAS Tariff points and requires four additional hours of learning.
• All participating students will receive:
  • A certificate of completion or participation
  • Priority access, with a discount, to GEC Academy-accredited courses
  • Appointment as a GEC Academy Research Skills Ambassador
  • Free access to the LUMINAI Lecture Series, featuring university leaders and Nobel laureates
  • The option to pursue the Level 3 Research Skills qualification through additional online learning and payment of a separate fee