Upcoming 3MT Competition Schedule
The 3MT (Three Minute Thesis) competition at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) is set to take place on October 21 and 22, with preliminary rounds scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. The preliminary sessions will occur on October 21 from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM and from 1:00 PM to 2:30 PM, as well as on October 22 from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM and from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. The finals will follow on November 6, from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Overview of the 3MT Competition
Originating at the University of Queensland, the 3MT competition challenges graduate students to present their research in just three minutes using a single PowerPoint slide. This format encourages clarity and creativity, allowing participants to convey complex ideas to a general audience. The inaugural event took place in 2008 and has since expanded globally, with competitions now held at over 600 institutions across 65 countries.
In the upcoming UNCG competition, approximately ten participants will be selected from the preliminary rounds to advance to the finals, where they will present their research before a panel of judges and an audience. The top three presenters will receive cash prizes, with $1,000 for first place, $500 for second, and a $250 People’s Choice award.
Reasons to Participate
Graduate students are encouraged to take part in the 3MT competition for several reasons. Not only do winners receive monetary rewards, but they also gain the opportunity to advance to regional competitions, enhancing their academic exposure. Additionally, participants develop vital communication skills that are essential for effectively sharing their research with non-expert audiences.
The competition fosters a collaborative environment among students from various disciplines, promoting networking and relationships that can extend beyond the event.
Judging Criteria and Rules
Participants will be evaluated based on two key criteria: comprehension and content, as well as engagement and communication. Presentations should clearly articulate the motivation and significance of the research, describe the methodology and findings, and maintain audience interest through clear delivery and enthusiasm.
Each presentation is strictly limited to three minutes, and exceeding this time will result in disqualification. Presenters are only allowed one static PowerPoint slide without any animations or additional media. The judging panel’s decision will be final.
Logistics and Registration Update
Registration for the 2026 3MT competition at UNCG has now closed, with participation limited to the first 60 registered master’s or doctoral students. Qualifying rounds will be held in the Elliott University Center’s Sharpe Room, and finalists will compete in the Alumni House for the final round.
The first-place winner will have the opportunity to represent UNCG at the Council of Southern Graduate School’s regional 3MT competition in Arlington, Virginia, subject to funding and registration limits. Monetary awards for winners will be credited to their student accounts, with any remaining balance issued as a refund check.
Support Resources for Competitors
UNCG offers resources for participants to aid in their preparation for the competition. The Communication Lab provides support for developing presentation skills through individual and group sessions. Participants can schedule consultations to refine their presentations and slides.
For further assistance, competitors may reach out via email or phone to access additional resources and guidance as they prepare for their presentations.
Source: UNC Greensboro
