Science Olympiad

Overview

Science Olympiad is one of the largest team STEM competitions in the United States, with thousands of middle- and high-school teams competing every year. School teams of up to 15 students prepare across 23 events that rotate annually, spanning life science, earth and space science, physical science and chemistry, technology and engineering, and inquiry.

How It Works

• Division B serves grades 6-9; Division C serves grades 9-12
• Teams advance through invitational, regional, and state tournaments to the Science Olympiad National Tournament each May
• Events range from written exams (e.g., Anatomy & Physiology, Astronomy) to build events (e.g., flight devices, towers, robots) and lab practicals
• Every student on a competing team covers several events, so teams reward both depth and breadth

Why It Matters

• Builds genuine, exam-tested knowledge across many scientific disciplines
• Strong Science Olympiad results (state medals, national appearances) are respected markers in STEM admissions
• The team structure develops collaboration and long-term study discipline

Getting Involved

• Compete through your school's team, or work with a teacher to found one and register with your state chapter
• Season typically runs fall through spring, with 3-10 hours/week of preparation depending on events

How much does Science Olympiad cost?

We have not verified what Science Olympiad costs. Our catalog holds no confirmed price for it, and an unpriced entry means exactly that — unpriced, not free. Check the official site before assuming either way.

Who is eligible for Science Olympiad?

Science Olympiad is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Its official page puts it as “Division C (Grades 9-12)”. Some programs add requirements a grade range cannot capture — GPA, coursework, essays, recommendations — so read the full criteria there.

Is Science Olympiad online or in person?

Science Olympiad is an in-person program. Expect a time commitment of roughly 6 hours per week.

How do I apply to Science Olympiad?

Apply directly through Science Olympiad Inc.'s official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.