about this event
Join HackWashU for a student-led, 48-hour AI build challenge at Washington University in St. Louis from September 25–27, 2026. Undergraduate and graduate students from all majors and experience levels are welcome.
Build a practical AI-powered project, learn through beginner-friendly workshops, work with mentors during office hours, collaborate across disciplines, and present your work at the final showcase. More than 250 WashU students are expected to participate as part of Fall +AI Perspectives Week.
WHAT TO EXPECT
• A welcoming, beginner-friendly environment
• Workshops, mentorship, and office hours
• Interdisciplinary team building and hands-on project development
• Partner-inspired challenges and real-world problem areas
• A final showcase with judging, finalist presentations, and awards
KEY SCHEDULE
All times are Central Time.
• Friday, September 25 at 10:00 AM: Official hacking and submission period begins
• Sunday, September 27 at 10:00 AM: Project submissions close
• Sunday, September 27 at 2:00 PM: Finalist list announced
• Sunday, September 27 at 4:00 PM: Finalist presentations begin
• Sunday, September 27 at 7:00 PM: Winners announced
Additional workshop, mentorship, and venue details will be shared with registered participants.
schedule
Hacking period begins
Official hacking and submission period begins
◍ HackWashU Fall AI Build ChallengeProject submissions close
Project submissions close
◍ HackWashU Fall AI Build ChallengeFinalist list announced
Finalist list announced
◍ HackWashU Fall AI Build ChallengeFinalist presentations begin
Finalist presentations begin
◍ HackWashU Fall AI Build ChallengeWinners announced
Winners announced
◍ HackWashU Fall AI Build Challenge