Congressional App Challenge Student Application
The Congressional App Challenge is now open for middle and high school students across Illinois’ 17th Congressional District. Hosted by the U.S. House of Representatives, the nationwide competition encourages students to explore coding and computer science by creating and showcasing their own original apps for mobile, web, tablet, desktop, or other platforms.
Students may compete individually or in teams of up to four students and can use any programming language, including Java, Python, JavaScript, C++, Ruby, or block coding.
Apps can focus on any topic or issue, giving students the opportunity to combine creativity, innovation, and technical skills to solve real-world problems.
The challenge is open to all middle and high school students who live in or attend school in Illinois’ 17th Congressional District.
Winning submissions will be recognized by Congressman Eric Sorensen and may be displayed in the U.S. Capitol as part of the national Congressional App Challenge exhibit.
Winners are also invited to the annual #HouseOfCode celebration in Washington, D.C.
Registration for the 2026 Congressional App Challenge is now open, and submissions are due by October 26, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. ET.
Students can learn more, review eligibility requirements, and register here at Congressional App Challenge.