Start a Chapter
Become an NCT Chapter Leader and bring chemistry competition to your entire area. Those who start new chapters earn permanent “Founding Leader” recognition.
What is an NCT Chapter?
An NCT Chapter is your local hub for chemistry competition. As Chapter Leader, you create access not just for your school, but for students across your entire area who want to compete but don't have their own chapter nearby.
Your School
Start with classmates who want to compete
Nearby Schools
Students from schools without their own chapter can join yours
Homeschoolers
Home-educated students in your area finally get access
For Student Leaders
Build something meaningful for your community
Official Chapter Leader Title
Receive recognition as the leader of your local NCT chapter. Start a new chapter and earn permanent "Founding Leader" distinction.
Regional Impact
You're not just hosting for your school—you're creating access for students across your entire area. Nearby schools without chapters, homeschoolers, and independent learners can all join yours.
Community Service
Expanding STEM access in your community is meaningful work. Help students who otherwise couldn't participate in chemistry competition.
Leadership Experience
Coordinate across schools, promote regionally, and manage logistics for diverse participants. Develop real organizational and communication skills.
What You'll Gain
- Official "Chapter Leader" certificate and recognition
- "Founding Leader" distinction if you start a new chapter
- Community impact—you served students beyond your own school
- Organizational experience—coordinating participants from multiple sources
- STEM advocacy—you helped expand access to chemistry competition
Getting started is easy: If you're not taking the exam, you can proctor it yourself. If you want to compete too, just find a teacher to supervise.
What You Need
Capacity
A proctored room that can accommodate at least 5 students.
Internet Access
Reliable internet connection for accessing exam materials.
Supervision
A supervising adult (teacher sponsor) who can be present during the exam.
Integrity
Commitment to maintaining exam integrity and following guidelines.
After Approval
What You'll Receive
Once your chapter is approved, you'll get everything you need to run a successful regional competition.
- Official NCT Chapter designation for your area
- Unique chapter ID for regional registration
- Comprehensive proctor guide PDF
- Exam passcode (sent morning of exam)
- Listing on student registration with your chapter name
- Direct support from NCT team
- Chapter Leader certificate after successful completion
How It Works
Submit Application
Fill out the form with your location and contact information.
Get a Teacher Sponsor
Ask a teacher to supervise on exam day. They just need to be present.
Chapter Approval (48 hours)
We review your application and confirm your chapter designation.
Recruit Regionally
Spread the word at your school and beyond. Invite nearby schools and homeschoolers!
Host the Exam
Administer the exam on the scheduled date. We're here to help!
Receive Your Certificate
Get official recognition as Chapter Leader (and Founding Leader if you started the chapter).
Common Questions
How many students do I need?
Minimum of 5 students. Recruit from your school first, then reach out to nearby schools and homeschool groups to grow your chapter.
Do I need a teacher sponsor?
Only if you're also taking the exam. If you're just proctoring (not competing), you can run the chapter yourself.
Can students from other schools join?
Yes! Your chapter serves your area—students from any school or homeschoolers can register if there isn't a chapter closer to them.
More questions? Check our FAQ page or contact us.
Start a Chapter
Apply to become an NCT Chapter Leader in your area.