NSO 2025–26: National Science Olympiad by SOF – Complete Guide

What is NSO?

The National Science Olympiad (NSO) is an annual science competition conducted by SOF for students in classes 1–12. It aims to foster scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills aligned with school curricula across India. sofworld.org

Exam Levels & Eligibility

• Level 1: Open to classes 1–12; offline exam conducted in schools 

• Level 2: For qualifiers from Level 1 (top 5% class-wise or zone/state toppers), applicable for classes 3–12 

  • No Level 2 for classes 1–2 

Exam Dates & Mode

• Level 1 Dates (2025–26): Nov 13, Nov 27, Dec 11 (school chooses one) 
• Mode: Offline, OMR-based, English medium, duration: 60 minutes 

Exam Pattern & Marking

LEVEL 1

• Classes 1–4 - Logical Reasoning: 5 × 1 = 5 marks - Science: 25 × 1 = 25 marks - Achievers Section: 5 × 2 = 10 marks

  • Total: 35 questions, 40 marks 

• Classes 5–10 - Logical Reasoning: 10 × 1 = 10 marks - Science: 35 × 1 = 35 marks - Achievers Section: 5 × 3 = 15 marks

  • Total: 50 questions, 60 marks 

• Classes 11–12 - Physics & Chemistry: 25 × 1 = 25 marks - Mathematics/Biology: 20 × 1 = 20 marks - Achievers Section: 5 × 3 = 15 marks

  • Total: 50 questions, 60 marks 

LEVEL 2: Similar structure; classes 3–4 have 35 questions (40 marks), upper classes have 50 questions (60 marks) 

Marking Scheme:

• Main-section questions: +1 mark each
• Achievers questions: +2 or +3 marks based on class level
• No negative marking 

Syllabus Overview

• Based on CBSE, ICSE, and state-board syllabi

• Level 1: 60% current-class, 40% previous-grade syllabus; Achievers from current-class only 

• Class-wise topics:

  • Classes 1–10: Logical Reasoning + Science + Achievers
  • Classes 11–12: Physics, Chemistry + Mathematics/Biology + Achievers

Subject-wise Syllabus Highlights (general):

• Logical Reasoning: Patterns, analogies, classification, coding, series
• Science: Core concepts – plants, animals, physics, chemistry, environment
• Physics & Chemistry (11–12): Mechanics, electricity, atomic structure, thermodynamics, bonding, organic modules
• Mathematics/Biology (11–12): Calculus, algebra, cell biology, genetics, ecology
• Achievers: Higher-order questions on current-class topics

Preparation Cheat Sheet

Logical Reasoning

• Practice puzzles: series, matrices, analogies, classification
• Focus on both verbal & non-verbal reasoning

Science (Classes 1–10)

• Read NCERT or class-specific textbooks
• Revise life sciences, physical sciences, environment, and earth science
• Use flowcharts and flashcards for quick recall

Physics & Chemistry (11–12)

• Solidify fundamentals: motion, electricity, thermodynamics, bonding
• Understand periodic table trends, reactions, molecular structures

Mathematics/Biology (11–12)

• Focus on key topics: calculus, algebra, trigonometry / cell biology, genetics, ecology
• Use diagrams for biology and formula sheets for math

Achievers Section

• Aim for accuracy and speed
• Practice previous years' Olympiad papers and sample books

General Tips

• Simulate full 60-minute tests under timed conditions
• Analyze mistakes and build weak areas
• Revise previous‑grade topics for comprehensive coverage
• Refer to recommended NSO sample papers from SOF

Rewards & Recognition

• International, zonal, and school-level awards including cash prizes, medals, trophies, and certificates
• Detailed student Performance Reports including all ranks (school, city, zone, international) 
• Scholarships and awards for underprivileged girl students and meritorious performers 

Quick Facts Table