Once a group project enters the frst level of competition beyond the school level, students may not be added or replaced. If the group loses one or more members, even temporarily, the remaining group members are still eligible to compete. This is true, even if only one student remains. The project is still a group entry because it refects the work of multiple students.
Changing categories or topics is not permitted after entering the frst level of NHD competition beyond the school level. Narrowing and refning topics are permitted and encouraged.