# USA Bebras Computing Challenge

Free online computational-thinking challenge taken at school during World Bebras Week each November. US students solve puzzle-style informatics tasks in 45 minutes - no coding experience or preparation needed.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Bebras USA |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://www.bebraschallenge.org/ |

## About this program

# USA Bebras Computing Challenge

Bebras is an international challenge that introduces students to computational thinking and informatics through short, puzzle-style tasks - no programming experience required. The US edition, Bebras Challenge USA 2026, runs this November during World-Wide Bebras Week (the second week of November), when millions of students around the globe solve the same style of problems. Participation is completely free, and tasks are designed to be attempted without any preparation or studying.

## What You'll Do

- Take the 45-minute online challenge at school on a computer or mobile device, solving as many tasks as you can
- Tackle logic and algorithm puzzles drawn from real informatics concepts, adapted to your age group
- Compete in your age category - middle schoolers fall into Benjamins (ages 10-12) and Cadets (ages 12-14)
- Review solutions afterward to see the computer science ideas hidden inside each puzzle

## Who Should Apply

Any US student roughly ages 6-18; it is an ideal zero-cost, zero-prep introduction to computer science thinking for middle schoolers who have never coded. A teacher or school coordinator registers the school and proctors the challenge window.

## Outcomes

Students discover whether algorithmic thinking clicks for them before ever writing a line of code, and schools get class-level results to spot promising CS students. Bebras is a common on-ramp to challenges like ACSL and USACO later in high school.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does USA Bebras Computing Challenge cost?

USA Bebras Computing Challenge is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### Who is eligible for USA Bebras Computing Challenge?

USA Bebras Computing Challenge is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is USA Bebras Computing Challenge online or in person?

USA Bebras Computing Challenge is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to USA Bebras Computing Challenge?

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

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Last updated: 2026-07-06.
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