VEX Robotics Competition 2025: The Ultimate Guide for Kids

The VEX Robotics Competition 2025 is one of the most exciting events for young learners interested in robotics, coding, and engineering. Whether your child is just starting their journey or is an experienced builder, this competition provides an opportunity to engage in hands-on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) learning while developing critical life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity.

With distinct categories like VEX GO, VEX IQ, and VEX V5, the competition accommodates different age groups and skill levels. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through the different competition categories, the rules, robot kits allowed, age requirements, prizes, and how participating in the VEX Robotics Competition 2025 can shape your child’s future in technology.

What is the VEX Robotics Competition?

The VEX Robotics Competition is the largest educational robotics competition in the world, with thousands of students competing in regional, national, and international events each year. Designed to inspire kids to pursue careers in STEM fields, the competition challenges participants to build and program robots that can complete specific tasks, all while working in teams to solve complex problems.

Each year, VEX releases new game challenges and rules that students must adhere to. Participants build their robots based on these challenges using VEX Robotics kits, which include everything from basic motors and sensors to advanced mechanical components. The competition is divided into three main categories to suit different age groups: VEX GO, VEX IQ, and VEX V5.

VEX GO Robotics Competition (Ages 8-11)

The VEX GO Robotics Competition is designed for younger students, typically between the ages of 8 and 11 (grades 4 to 6). This competition introduces kids to the basics of robotics and programming using VEX GO kits, which feature simple-to-use components that snap together without the need for complex tools.

What is VEX GO?

VEX GO is an elementary-level robotics system that emphasizes hands-on learning and introduces young learners to basic engineering concepts. The kits include motors, gears, wheels, and sensors that kids can use to build robots capable of completing simple challenges. VEX GO focuses on helping kids understand the mechanical aspects of robotics, while also introducing basic block-based coding through the VEXcode GO app.

Allowed Robots and Parts in VEX GO

In the VEX GO competition, students must build their robots using only the parts provided in the VEX GO kits. This includes:

Snap-together plastic pieces
Motors and gears for movement
Sensors for detecting objects and navigating
Simple wheels and axles

The robot designs in this competition are simple, allowing younger students to focus on building and programming without being overwhelmed by complexity.

For more information about VEX GO kits, visit: VEX GO Kits.

VEX GO Prizes and Recognition

While the emphasis in VEX GO is on learning rather than competition, participants are recognized for their achievements in creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. Prizes often include certificates, medals, and the chance to progress to more advanced VEX competitions as students grow older.

VEX IQ Robotics Competition (Ages 8-14)

The VEX IQ Robotics Competition caters to students aged 8 to 14 (grades 4 to 8). This category introduces more complex robotics and programming concepts, allowing students to build larger, more advanced robots using the VEX IQ kits.

What is VEX IQ?

VEX IQ is a mid-level robotics platform designed to provide a more advanced introduction to robotics for upper elementary and middle school students. The VEX IQ kits include advanced parts such as motors, sensors, and structural elements, allowing students to build larger, more functional robots capable of completing more challenging tasks.

VEX IQ introduces block-based coding, using the VEXcode IQ platform, as well as text-based programming languages such as Python. This enables students to advance their programming skills as they grow, while also learning about mechanical design and engineering.

Allowed Robots and Parts in VEX IQ

In the VEX IQ competition, participants can only use parts from the VEX IQ kits, which include:

Structural parts such as beams, plates, and connectors
Motors for movement and lifting
Advanced sensors like distance sensors, color sensors, and gyroscopes
Wheels, gears, and axles for mobility

Participants are encouraged to think creatively when building their robots, solving real-world challenges through engineering and design.

For more information about VEX IQ kits, visit: VEX IQ Kits.

VEX IQ Prizes and Recognition

Winners of the VEX IQ Robotics Competition can receive a variety of prizes, including certificates, trophies, and scholarships. Teams that excel may also qualify for the VEX Robotics World Championship, where they compete against the best teams from around the globe.

VEX V5 Robotics Competition (Ages 12-17)

The VEX V5 Robotics Competition is the most advanced category, aimed at students aged 12 to 17 (grades 6 to 12). This competition challenges older students to build highly sophisticated robots using VEX V5 kits, which offer more powerful motors, advanced sensors, and a versatile programming environment.

What is VEX V5?

VEX V5 is a high-level robotics platform that prepares students for real-world engineering challenges. Using VEX V5 kits, students can build complex robots capable of performing advanced tasks, such as picking up objects, navigating mazes, and interacting with other robots.

Participants use VEXcode V5 to program their robots, with the option to code in languages like Python or C++. This category allows students to dive deeper into engineering, electronics, and coding, and is often a stepping stone for those considering careers in STEM fields.

Allowed Robots and Parts in VEX V5

In the VEX V5 competition, students are limited to using parts from the VEX V5 kits, which include:

Metal structural elements for building sturdy robots
High-torque motors for heavy lifting and precise movements
Advanced sensors, such as vision sensors, gyroscopes, and accelerometers
Complex gear systems for controlling speed and torque

The VEX V5 robots are highly customizable, allowing students to build machines that can tackle almost any challenge.

For more information about VEX V5 kits, visit: VEX V5 Kits.

VEX V5 Prizes and Recognition

Winners of the VEX V5 Robotics Competition can receive scholarships, internships, and other prestigious awards. The best teams often qualify for the VEX Robotics World Championship, where they compete against teams from around the world in high-level challenges.

Why Participate in the VEX Robotics Competition 2025?

Participating in the VEX Robotics Competition 2025 offers students a unique opportunity to develop real-world skills that go beyond the classroom. By building and programming robots, students learn how to work in teams, solve problems creatively, and apply their STEM knowledge to real-world challenges.

Here are some key reasons why kids should participate:

Learn critical STEM skills such as coding, engineering, and problem-solving
Develop teamwork and communication skills by working with others
Gain hands-on experience with real-world technologies like sensors and robotics
Compete for scholarships, internships, and global recognition

Get Started with Robotics at Robotix Institute

If your child is interested in participating in the VEX Robotics Competition 2025, the Robotix Institute offers hands-on robotics programs and camps that prepare students for these exciting challenges. Whether your child is just starting or looking to compete at the highest levels, our courses provide the perfect foundation for success.

Sign up for a free trial today and explore our robotics bootcamps and camps designed to help your child excel in the world of robotics.