Rules:

- All projects must be started within the hacking time period; continuation hacks are not allowed.

- All participants must be middle or high school girls.

- SSF reserves the right to expel members/teams who violate rules or the code of conduct.

- Projects must be original and created by participants. Using or taking other projects or ideas from inside or outside the hackathon is not allowed.

- Use of open-source libraries and frameworks is allowed, but links to those resources must be included in your Devpost submission.

- Only friendly competition is permitted. Harassing, aggressive, or boastful behavior is not allowed ("I will crush you" and similar talk is prohibited).

- Projects spreading hate or targeting social groups are not allowed. Avoid political inclinations.

Eligibility:

- Open to middle and high school girls.

- Teams must have 3–6 members.

- Beginners are welcome.

Project and Submission Requirements:

- Each team must submit presentation slides (using the official template), their website or project file, and (optionally) a design flowchart.

- Project titles must include the Project Name and Team Number.

- Include all used open-source resources with links.

Prizes:

- 1st Prize: $75 award (per team member)

- 2nd Prize: $50 award (per team member)

- 3rd Prize: $30 award (per team member)

- Additional raffle prizes available for participation and surveys.

Judging Criteria:

All judging is final unless evidence of cheating, manipulation, or plagiarism is found.

Judging is based on:

- Ideation (25%): Is the idea clear, useful, and relevant to the theme? Does it solve a real problem?

- Innovation & Functionality (25%): Is the idea creative and unique? Does it work well and make a real impact?

- Presentation & Storytelling (25%): Did the team explain their idea clearly and confidently? Was it engaging and easy to understand?

- The Wow Factor (25%): Does the idea stand out? Is it exciting, impressive, and memorable?

Code of Conduct:

The 2026 NETSCOUT All Girls Hackathon is committed to a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all. Harassment of any kind will not be tolerated. If you witness or experience behavior that violates this code, please report it to an SSF organizer immediately.