Undergraduate
Case Competition
Thank you for participating!
Case Summary & Result
(click the arrow to expand each)
2026 Competition Timeline
To help you prepare for the 2026 UTSRI Undergraduate Case Competition, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions about registration, deadlines, rules, and logistics. Additional details will be released on a rolling basis, and once you’ve registered, we’ll remain in constant contact to ensure you receive all necessary updates. Please also check this website and your email inbox regularly for the latest information.
Common Questions
(click the arrow to expand each)
Q: What are the divisions?
- Health Sciences
- Life Sciences
- Computational/Statistical Sciences
Q: What is the difference between Life Sciences and Health Sciences?
- Health Sciences → Focused on medical and clinical sciences. Think of this as the pre-med branch: anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, immunology, neuroscience (clinical), and other areas directly tied to human health and medicine.
- Life Sciences → Focused on all other areas of biology. This includes genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, ecology, microbiology (non-clinical), plant biology, evolution, biotechnology, and theoretical or fundamental biological research.
Q: NEW! How does the new two-round competition format work?
New for 2026, the competition will feature a two-round format. In Round One, teams will present their proposed solutions to a panel of judges. Following their presentation, teams will receive new information or an unexpected development related to their case. They will then have a short preparation period to adapt their solutions before presenting again in Round Two.
Q: NEW! What is the difference between Round One and Round Two?
Round One focuses on the team’s original research, analysis, and proposed solution developed during the 72-hour preparation period. Round Two challenges teams to respond to new information, reassess their approach, and demonstrate their ability to think critically and adapt under time constraints.
Q: NEW! Will teams receive a completely new case in Round Two? Do teams need to prepare two separate presentations in advance?
No and no. Round Two builds upon the original case rather than introducing an entirely new problem. Teams will receive additional information or a change in circumstances that may affect their proposed solution. They will be expected to adapt their existing approach accordingly. Teams only need to prepare their initial presentation during the 72-hour preparation period. The second round is designed to assess how effectively teams can respond to unexpected developments using their existing research and proposed solutions.
Q: Do I need to register individually or as a team?
Participants must compete as part of a team of 2-4, but each team member must complete an individual registration. During registration, you will be asked to indicate your team name and teammates so that we can match your registrations together.
If you do not yet have a team, we encourage you to find teammates before registering, as individual registrations without a team will not be accepted unless otherwise specified by the organizers.
Q: Can I choose my own teammates?
Yes, participants may select their own team members: but each member must register individually before registration closes.
Q: I’m a teacher or faculty advisor – can we request a group invoice for our students?
Yes! Teachers and faculty advisors are more than welcome to request a group invoice, which helps make the registration process easier for their students. Please email us at treasury@utsri.ca to request one.
Q: What is the registration fee per person?
- Early: $35 per person (Aug 30–Sept 26, 11:59 PM)
- Regular: $40 per person (Sept 27–Nov 7, 11:59 PM)
- Extended: $45 per person (Nov 8–Nov 18, 11:59 PM)
Q: Is there a registration grace period?
Yes. We encourage everyone to register before Nov 7 (regular registration deadline). However, an extended period (Nov 8–Nov 18) is available for participants with extenuating circumstances.
Q: What are the case release and submission dates?
The case will be released at 11:59 PM on Nov 20, 2026, and all submissions are due by 11:59 PM on Nov 23, 2026.
Q: When is the case competition taking place?
On Saturday, Nov 28, 2026, from 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM.
Q: What is required for the case solution submission?
Each team must submit a 10-minute presentation (slides required). Additional materials (including models, prototypes, or trifold panels) are welcome but must be approved in advance by the organizing team at casecomp@utsri.ca. A written abstract of no more than 500 words is also required. Further details on submission requirements will be released prior to the case release date.
Q: What are the prizes?
Certificates will be awarded to the top 3 teams in each division. The top team in each division will also be awarded an additional $1000 cash prize.
Q: What is the dress code?
Business Casual or Business Formal.
Q: Are participants allowed to leave during the day?
Yes. You may sign out for lunch and breaks between 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions?
Please email us at casecomp@utsri.ca. Your message will be directed to the appropriate department, and responses may take up to 5 business days.