Grad Slam
Sharing and celebrating graduate student research and creative work in accessible 3-minute talks
Grad Slam is a campus-wide competition for the best 3-minute graduate student presentation of a research, creative, or community engagement project. It's an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their communication skills. It is also an effective way to showcase the innovative research and creative work associated with graduate education at the University of Arizona.
Key Dates
Registration Period
Register by January 20, 2027. Register now to secure a spot.
Competition Dates
All U of A sessions are open to the public.
- February 13, 2027 - Preliminary Rounds, Student Union Memorial Center, 8 AM to 5:30 PM MST, RSVP coming soon
- February 24, 2027 - Final Round, Student Union Grand Ballroom, Doors Open at 4 PM, Event Start at 4:30 PM MST, RSVP coming soon
- March 29 to April1, 2027 - Western Association of Graduate Schools 3-Minute Thesis (3MT), Coeur d’Alene, Idaho: Grad Slam Winner or Finalist will represent U of A.
Information Sessions
Workshops
Materials from prior year workshops will be available on Box and a training day is scheduled for January 30. Additional information and resources are available on the Preparing to Excel page.
- January 30 - Presentation Training and Rehearsal Day. More detailed schedule coming later Fall semester. RSVP
Presentation Practice Sessions
These sessions are dedicated time for Grad Slam participants to practice their presentations, get feedback, and ask questions. Time allowing, students may also practice other presentations.
Why Participate
Learn about the benefits of presenting in Grad Slam, including the grand prizes.
Format, Rules, and Judging Criteria
Learn about the competition’s structure and expectations of presenters.
Grad Slam Judges
Learn more about what judges do, how they are selected, and how to become a judge.
Grad Slam Videos
View past Grad Slam finalist videos as well as other videos associated with the event, like the Grad Slam:
Research as Story short video.
Preparing to Excel
Get resources to help you prepare for Grad Slam and other presentations
Sponsors
University of Arizona Office of Research and Partnerships - Grad Slam Grand Prizes
University of Arizona Foundation - Final Round Post-Competition Reception
Want to sponsor Grad Slam (an award area or the event itself) or have additional questions? Contact David Bradshaw at bradshad@arizona.edu for more information.
Hosts
Grad Slam is hosted by the Graduate Center, the home of the Graduate College's student success initiatives and services.