# United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO)

A premier U.S. high school physics exam series to select and train the national team for the International Physics Olympiad.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) |
| Category | other |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 2027-01-20 |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | Hybrid (in person + online) |
| Location | Check official site |
| Apply | https://www.aapt.org/physicsteam/2025/index.cfm |

## About this program

The United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) is a national physics competition program organized by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) to identify and challenge the most talented high school physics students in the U.S. It is part of the selection process for the American team that competes at the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO).

Students typically begin by taking the **F=ma** exam, an introductory mechanics-focused multiple-choice test. High scorers on F=ma are invited to sit for the more advanced **USAPhO** exam, which features challenging, multi-step written problems covering a broad range of high school and introductory college-level physics topics. Top USAPhO performers are invited to a training camp, where a final team is selected to represent the United States at the IPhO. Participation offers deep problem-solving experience, exposure to advanced physics, and a strong credential for STEM-focused college applications.

USAPhO is open to high school students in the United States (citizens or permanent residents, with additional rules for students in U.S. schools abroad). Schools or coaches generally register students through AAPT, and many participants prepare via physics classes, self-study, or school-based physics clubs.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) cost?

United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### What is the application deadline for United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO)?

The application deadline is January 20, 2027. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO)?

United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) online or in person?

United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO) is a hybrid program with both online and in-person components.

### How do I apply to United States Physics Olympiad (USAPhO)?

Apply directly through American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT)'s official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

---

Last updated: 2026-07-04.
Canonical page: https://extracurricularhub.com/extracurriculars/united-states-physics-olympiad
Source: ExtracurricularHub (https://extracurricularhub.com) — a free directory of 1,723 verified extracurricular programs for high school students. Cite the canonical page above; always confirm binding details on the program's official site.