Field
STEM, Humanities
Participating in the CREST Awards - Gold administered by the British Science Association (BSA), is one of the most respected pathways for post-16 students to demonstrate advanced, student-led STEM research.
Because Gold-level projects reflect real-world scientific and engineering standards equivalent to A-Level or first-year undergraduate research, the award can feel challenging and highly demanding. This guide breaks the process down simply, helping you understand what CREST looks for and how to prepare a strong Gold submission.
What Kind of Work Can You Submit?
The CREST Gold Award accepts four types of student-led project work: investigations, design-and-make projects, research studies, and science communication outputs. Regardless of type, each project must show independence, innovation, and depth, supported by at least 70 hours of individual work per student.
Work may include background research, planning and design, experimentation or prototyping, data collection, analysis, reflection, and creation of a polished final report. Gold participants are also expected to work with a relevant mentor such as an academic, engineer, scientist, or professional expert.
Projects must be original, demonstrate a clear aim or research question, apply appropriate scientific or technical methods, and produce meaningful conclusions or outcomes. Students from all countries may participate, though the award is accredited by the BSA.
Eligibility
The Gold Award is open to students aged 16 and above, typically in A-Level, IB, or equivalent programs. Students may work individually or in groups, but each must complete their own 70 hours of work and independently meet the assessment criteria.
A project logbook and Student Profile Form must be maintained throughout. All work must be safe, ethical, authentic, and aligned with CREST’s six core criteria, which include planning, research/problem solving, technical skill, analysis, communication, and reflection. Assessors evaluate each student’s work individually, even in group submissions.
Prizes
While CREST Gold does not offer financial prizes, the award itself serves as a highly valued credential recognised by universities, scholarship committees, and employers. Gold-level achievement demonstrates advanced research ability, rigourous problem-solving, and strong academic independence. Many students use the award to strengthen university applications, especially for STEM courses.
Submission Process
The CREST Gold Award follows a rolling submission system. Students may begin and complete their project at any time, and submit once their report and profile are ready.
Gold-level submissions are uploaded through the CREST online platform here. Students must provide:
A CREST Student Profile Form, detailing reflections, hours completed, and skills developed.
A Project Report or Portfolio documenting the full research, design, or communication process from aim to conclusion.
Supporting materials, such as raw data, sketches, images, videos, appendices, feedback forms, or logbooks.
Each student must submit their own Student Profile, even for group projects.
Maintaining a detailed logbook throughout the process i.e., recording dates, progress, challenges, changes, and reflections is strongly recommended and valued by assessors.
Review Timeline
The timeline for completing a CREST Gold project is flexible, as submissions are accepted year-round. A typical project follows this structure:
June–December: Select topic, define aims, conduct background research, refine methodology, begin experimental or design work. Maintain logbook and collect evidence.
January–April: Continue investigation, data collection, prototype development, or creation of communication materials. Begin analysis and evaluation. Draft report and complete reflections.
April–May: Finalise analysis, conclusions, and project report. Complete the Student Profile Form. Prepare supporting materials and upload submission to the CREST platform.
Ongoing: Receive assessor feedback. If the project does not fully meet Gold-level expectations, it may be awarded Silver.
Students should regularly check the CREST website for any administrative or procedural updates.
RISE Tips for Getting Accepted
Based on strong Gold Award submissions reviewed by RISE, competitive projects typically demonstrate:
A clear, well-defined aim or brief supported by thoughtful planning
Strong background research and understanding of relevant theory
Independent problem-solving and initiative
Appropriate and competently executed methods
Insightful and balanced analysis with awareness of limitations
A polished, clear, and well-structured report
Honest, reflective commentary on learning and development
Assessors look for authenticity, rigor, and growth. Presentation quality and clarity significantly influence how your work is understood.
Past Projects
The British Science Association provides sample Gold portfolios, templates, and resource packs on the CREST resource library. Reviewing these materials helps students understand the expected depth, structure, and documentation quality required at Gold level. Find one such example here.
RISE Research Program
If you’re a high school student aiming for competitive journals, RISE Research gives you the chance to work one-on-one with mentors from leading universities worldwide. With individualised guidance and support in building independent research projects, students often produce high-quality work suitable for top publications, while also developing a strong academic profile. The program is flexible, accessible globally, and open for applications throughout the year. To explore eligibility, pricing, and how to begin, visit the RISE Research website and take the next step in your academic journey!
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