What determines the number of teams advancing to Round Two?

The determining factor for the number of teams advancing to Round Two is based on the criteria met in Round One and the available space. This ensures that advancing teams are not only qualified based on the evaluation criteria but also that there is sufficient capacity to accommodate them for the next round. This approach emphasizes merit through performance and capability and avoids arbitrary decisions, ensuring a fair and structured advancement process.

Considering the other choices, the judges' discretion alone would not provide a structured or transparent basis for selection, leading to potential bias. Random selection lacks the necessary evaluation of team performance and does not reward effort or achievement. The submission of project materials is typically a prerequisite for evaluation; however, it does not directly influence how many teams progress based on their performance outcomes in the first round.