FAQ's

What is ISR?

The International Submarine Races (ISR) is the premiere US-based competition event for human-powered submarines intended to attract students and young persons around the world with a passion for STEM and the drive to solve tough problems. The ISR consists of a design competition, marked by submittal of a final technical design report, as well as the successful fabrication, construction, and racing of a one- or two-person submarine vessel propelled solely under human power across a 100-meter underwater course at the David Taylor Model Basin, NSWC Carderock. Awards are presented to teams and individuals across the ISR competition for critical functional and operational focus areas, hallmarks of the expected skills and values needed in tomorrow’s thinkers, engineers, and leaders.

Is ISR the same as eISR?

The International Submarine Races (ISR), organized biennially on odd-numbered years by the Foundation for Underwater Research and Education (FURE) within the US, are separate and distinct from the European International Submarine Races (eISR). FURE and ISR are not officially affiliated with eISR at this time.

How often are the ISR races held?

The International Submarines Races are held biennially, typically during the summer months. Each race is held across a single week including set-up, dry-runs, wet-checks, racing, awards, and cleanup.

Will there be an ISR 19 in 2027?

Yes! FURE is planning on hosting ISR 19 on June 20-27, 2027. Details will be shared via social media and via this website as registration opens and the race venue is finalized.

What are the requirements for the ISR?

Check out the Contestant Info page, which has more in-depth information regarding this competitive event.

Are there any scholarships offered by FURE?

Yes, at least one annual scholarship award of $2500 will be made, however the amount and number of awards can vary annually based on the number of qualified candidates and availability of funds. See our scholarship page for 2026. Now accepting applications!

I’ve been involved with the International Submarine Races for a couple of races now. It’s been an incredible experience for me. I’m now working in my first job and am thinking about giving back. Is there a way for me to contribute to the Foundation for Underwater Research and Education and the ISR?

Absolutely! We always appreciate those whose own ISR experience(s) inspires them to continue giving back. Please contact the Foundation’s president, Mr. Vin Malkoski at FURE.President@internationalsubmarineraces.org and he’ll put you in contact with the right person to discuss opportunities.

Do I need to be a student to participate in ISR?

Not necessarily! ISR welcomes most underage persons with adult sponsorship as well as collegiate students. Additionally, any underage person or adult interested in ISR in a support and/or volunteer capacity is encouraged to pre-register and join this ever-growing STEM event!

I do not have a SCUBA certification. Can I still participate?

Absolutely. ISR brings together hundreds of participants, volunteers, teachers, parents, advisors, and vendors, many of whom are not certified divers. In order to be an in-water participant, however, you must have an internationally-recognized recreational diver certification at a minimum. See additional requirements and registration details for the upcoming ISR here.

I am a part of an international (non-US) race team and we are interested in shipping our boat to the race directly to the venue. Is this possible?

Unfortunately, as long as the ISR event is held onsite at a US military installation, there is not a way to ship any items directly to the venue.

Is there anyone I can contact if I have more questions about ISR?

Yes; Please direct inquiries to FURE.vicepresident@internationalsubmarinracves.org for any additional FURE or ISR information.

I am looking forward to participating in the next ISR and would like to ship my boat to the race site. How do I do this in advance?

All contestants should refer to the latest instructions in the Contestant Manual for the race in which they plan to participate for shipping restrictions, details, and points of contact. Any questions regarding the process should be coordinated with the ISR Contestant Liaison, per the directions in the Contestant Manual.