Hello students and parents! Are you wondering about National Science Olympiad (NSO)? So, let us take a look at it together in a very simple manner.
Table of Contents
What is the National Science Olympiad (NSO)?
National Science Olympiad (NSO) is a science based competition conducted for school students in India. It was founded by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), an organization with the mission of introducing science to children.
Who Organizes the NSO?
The Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) conducts the NSO. They have been conducting these exams to encourage students to learn and love science.
Official Website
You can find more information about the NSO on their official website: https://sofworld.org/nso
Who Can Participate?
The NSO is open to students of Class 1 to Class 12.
How to Register?
You have 2 options to register and participate for NSO:
- Via School: Most students get registered through their schools. So let your teacher or school coordinator know that you’d like to participate, and they’ll smooth the way to registration.
- Individual Registration: If your school is not participating, you may register individually. Follow the instructions stepwise as mentioned in individual registration on NSO official website.
When is the Exam Held?
The NSO typically occurs in the fourth quarter of the calendar year. For instance, in 2024 the exams were conducted on October 18, November 12 and December 3. Please note that the specific dates vary each year and it will be best to visit the official website or School will communicate the dates to the candidates.
What is the Syllabus?
The syllabus for NSO is as per what you study in your regular school. It includes curriculum based topics from your science textbooks and questions to check your thinking and reasoning abilities. You’ll need to have a solid understanding of the concepts, not just memorize them.
How is the Exam Structured?
There are two levels of the NSO.
- Level 1: This is the first level and it takes place in your school, during school hours. The exam consists of 35 multiple-choice questions for students from Class 1 to 4 and 50 multiple-choice questions for students from Class 5 to 12. You have one hour to take the exam.
- Level 2: Students who are successful at Level 1 progress to Level 2. This one is a little tougher and is typically conducted at sanctioned centers.
Is There a Fee?
Yes, there is a small fee to participate in the NSO. The exact amount can vary, so it’s best to check with your school or the official website for the current fee.
How Can You Prepare?
To help you prepare for the NSO, here are some tips:
- Master the Theory: Ensure you master your science classes. Avoid rote memorization; attempt to understand the concepts behind the facts.
- Regular Practice: Solve sample papers and last years question papers. These will acclimate you to the types of questions that are being asked.
- User Available Resources: There are sample papers and other study resources available on the SOF website for NSO Preparation. There are books and guides available that aim to assist students in their preparation for the NSO.
Why Should You Participate?
There are plenty of advantages to participating in the NSO:
- Enhance Your Knowledge: Its enhances and makes it fun to learn science.
- Learn Key Skills: The Test measures your ability to think critically and solve problems; life skills that are invaluable.
- Get Rewards: If you are doing well, you earn certificates, medals and also scholarships, it feels proud.
What Language is the Exam In?
The NSO is written in English.
Where is the Exam Held?
Level 1 exam is conducted at your own school so you don’t have to travel much. If you are accredited in Level 2, you will be notified as for the venue of the exam.
What Resources Can Help Me Study?
Sample papers and other essential materials are available on the SOF website. There are also a number of books and online resources specifically designed for NSO preparation.
We wish you the best of luck, and we hope this guide better prepares you for the upcoming National Science Olympiad. For the record, the purpose is to explore and enjoy science. Best of luck, and happy learning!