Overview
Students aged 13–16 build software solutions to a live problem statement, combining Python development with generative AI. This category expects a higher level of technical depth and AI integration, challenging participants to create polished, functional applications.
Eligibility
Open to any student aged 13 to 16 as of 19 December 2026.
Deliverables
Participants must submit all three of the following:
Python Application
A Python software application with a graphical user interface (e.g. Tkinter, PyQt) that addresses the problem statement.
Project Website
A website showcasing the project, its features, and its impact on the problem statement.
Promotional Video
A promotional video presenting the project and demonstrating how it works.
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 Masters U16 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
- Python environment pre-installed (recommended)
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
Same rubric as U12 with a higher expectation for technical depth and AI integration.
Prizes
Every participant receives a Certificate of Participation.
Registration Fee
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.