National Science Olympiad (NSO) 2025-26: Introduction, Exam Dates, Syllabus, Eligibility

National Science Olympiad (NSO) 2025-26: The National Science Olympiad (NSO), conducted by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), is one of the most prestigious science competitions in India. Targeted at students from Class 1 to Class 12, the exam tests their scientific reasoning and logical ability. The NSO not only boosts students' academic foundation in science but also provides a platform for them to assess their knowledge at national and international levels.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about the NSO 2025-26 including the introduction, exam dates, syllabus, eligibility criteria, and more.

Overview of NSO 2025-26

NSO 2025-26 Exam Dates

SOF has announced three possible dates for the NSO 2025-26 exam. Schools can select any one of these dates based on their convenience.

Note: Only one date will be chosen by the school for conducting the exam.

NSO 2025-26 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for NSO 2025-26 are straightforward and inclusive.

• Students from Class 1 to 12 are eligible.
• The school must be registered with SOF to participate.
• There is no minimum percentage requirement in school exams.
• Students can participate individually if their school is not registered, by contacting SOF directly.

NSO 2025-26 Syllabus

The syllabus of NSO is based on the CBSE, ICSE/ISC and State Board curriculum. The level of difficulty varies according to the class.

NSO Syllabus Structure:

Sample Topics for Key Classes:

Class 1 to 4:

• Living and Non-living Things
• Plants and Animals
• Human Body
• Weather and Seasons
• Water, Air, and Natural Resources
• Logical Reasoning

Class 5 to 8:

• Nutrition
• Reproduction
• Light, Sound, and Force
• Pollution and Environment
• Physical and Chemical Changes
• Logical Reasoning and HOTS (Higher Order Thinking Skills)

Class 9 to 12:

• Cell Structure & Function
• Motion and Force
• Work and Energy
• Atoms and Molecules
• Electricity and Magnetism
• Logic-based reasoning & HOTS

NSO Exam Pattern 2025-26

The NSO exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is conducted in two levels:

Level 1: All students from Class 1 to 12 appear for this level.

Section-Wise Marks Distribution:

Level 2:

• Only students from Class 3 to 12, who qualify from Level 1, appear for this.
• The pattern and syllabus remain similar but the difficulty level increases.

How to Register for NSO 2025-26

Students can register through their schools or individually (if the school is not participating).

Through School:

1. SOF sends prospectus and registration forms to schools.
2. Students fill the forms and pay the registration fee to the school.
3. School sends the compiled list and fees to SOF.

Individual Registration:

1. Visit www.sofworld.org
2. Choose "NSO Individual Registration"
3. Fill out the form and pay the fee online.

Registration Fee:

• Rs. 125 per student (may vary slightly depending on the region)

NSO 2025-26 Result & Awards

• NSO Level 1 results are generally announced within 6-8 weeks of the exam.
• Students who qualify Level 1 can appear for Level 2 (from Class 3 to 12).
• Results can be checked online at the official SOF website using roll numbers.

Awards:

Benefits of Participating in NSO 2025-26

• Develops scientific aptitude from an early age
• Enhances problem-solving and reasoning skills
• Competitive benchmarking at national and international level
• Boosts confidence and academic performance
• Valuable addition to academic achievements for future prospects

Conclusion

The National Science Olympiad (NSO) 2025-26 is a golden opportunity for students to enhance their scientific understanding and compete with the best minds across the country. From well-structured exam patterns to wide syllabus coverage and exciting awards, NSO builds a strong foundation for future competitive exams and career growth.

Students aspiring to perform well in NSO must begin early preparation by referring to the detailed syllabus, practicing with sample papers, and understanding the pattern. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to showcase your scientific talent!

National Science Olympiad (NSO) 2025-26 FAQs

Q1. Who can apply for the NSO 2025-26 exam?
Answer: Students from Class 1 to 12 studying in any recognized school in India or abroad are eligible to apply for the SOF National Science Olympiad (NSO) 2025-26. There is no minimum marks requirement, and participation is open to all interested students.

Q2. When will the NSO 2025-26 exam be conducted?
Answer: The NSO 2025-26 exam will be held on three different dates for the convenience of schools:

• Thursday, 13th November 2025
• Thursday, 27th November 2025
• Thursday, 11th December 2025
  Each school can select one of these dates as per their preference.

Q3. What is the syllabus for the NSO 2025-26 exam?
Answer: The syllabus for NSO 2025-26 is based on the respective class curriculum prescribed by CBSE, ICSE, and various state boards. It includes key Science topics, logical reasoning, and analytical skills. Students should also refer to the official SOF syllabus and NSO workbooks for thorough preparation.

Q4. How can I register for the NSO 2025-26 exam?
Answer: Students can register for NSO 2025-26 through their schools only. SOF sends registration forms to all affiliated schools. If your school is not registered, you can request them to contact SOF. Currently, individual registrations are not accepted by SOF.

Q5. Will there be different levels in the NSO 2025-26 exam?
Answer: Yes. The NSO consists of two levels:

• Level 1 is conducted for all registered students of Class 1 to 12.
• Level 2 is conducted only for selected students from Classes 3 to 12 who qualify based on their Level 1 performance.