Overview

Students aged 10–12 build creative digital solutions to a live problem statement using generative AI tools. No prior Python experience is required — this category focuses on web technologies and creative thinking. Participants will demonstrate how effectively they can direct AI tools to bring their ideas to life.

Eligibility

Open to any student aged 10, 11, or 12 as of 19 December 2026.

Deliverables

Participants must submit all three of the following:

Website

A website built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript that presents the solution to the problem statement.

Promotional Video

A promotional or explainer video showcasing the project and its impact.

Web Browser Game

A web browser game built with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript related to the problem statement.

AI Tools

Premium generative AI tools with credits are provided by CodeFest. Every participant receives full access — no need to bring your own subscriptions. Specific tools will be announced approximately 1 month before the event (around 19 November 2026) so students can familiarise themselves ahead of time.

How It Works

Register

Sign up online and select the AI Coders U12 category.

AI Tools Announced — November 2026

Specific tools and credits announced so you can prepare and practice.

Day 1 — Coaching, Revision & Problem Statement

Arrive at SMU, settle in with a morning coaching and revision session, then receive the live problem statement and begin building.

Day 2 — Submit by 1:30pm

Continue building through the morning and submit all deliverables by 1:30pm.

Day 2 — 5-Minute Pitch to Judges

Present your solution to the judging panel in a 5-minute pitch.

Day 2 — Awards at 5:00pm

Winners announced and prizes awarded at the closing ceremony.

Event Schedule

Time Day 1 · Sat 19 Dec Day 2 · Sun 20 Dec
9:00am Check-in & setup Check-in
9:30–10:30am Coaching & revision Continue building
10:30am Problem statement reveal
10:30am–12:30pm Build Build
12:30–1:30pm Lunch Lunch · Submission deadline 1:30pm
1:30–3:30pm Build 5-minute pitches to judges
3:30–4:00pm Tea break Judges' deliberation + tea break
4:00–5:00pm Build Awards ceremony

Indicative schedule. Final timings confirmed closer to the event.

What to Bring

  • Laptop (fully charged)
  • Laptop charger
  • Water bottle

What's Included

AI Tool Credits

Full access to premium generative AI tools with credits provided.

Meals

Lunch and tea breaks on both days are included in the registration fee.

Goodie Bag

Every participant receives a goodie bag with a CodeFest jacket.

Certificate

Certificate of participation for every student.

Venue Access

Full access to SMU Administrative Building facilities for both days.

Judging Criteria

25%
Technical Execution
20%
Problem Understanding
20%
Creativity & Originality
20%
Effective AI Use
15%
Pitch Clarity

Prizes

1st Place
Nintendo Switch OLED
Nintendo Switch OLED
Gold Trophy
2nd Place
Razer Mouse
Razer Mouse
Silver Trophy
3rd Place
Razer Headset
Razer Headset
Bronze Trophy

Every participant receives a Certificate of Participation.

Registration Fee

S$280

Includes meals & AI tools access for both days

  • Early bird−S$30
  • Sibling−S$30
  • Both discountsS$220

Rules

  • Individual competition — every student competes on their own.
  • Work done onsite — all building takes place at the SMU venue during competition hours.

Ready to Compete?

Secure your spot in AI Coders U12 today.

Register Now →