International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) by SOF
by Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF)
₹50,000 Cash Prize
International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) by SOF is a competition by Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) for students in Class 1–10, open to students across India. Registration closes 24 Aug 2026.
Mode
In-Person
Eligibility
Class 1–10
Fee
₹170
Duration
1 hour
Format
Individual
Time needed
The exam requires a 1-hour commitment on the chosen test date. Preparation time varies based on individual student needs.
Key Dates
- Registration opens
- 1 May 2026
- Registration closes
- 24 Aug 2026
- Competition
- 24 Sept 2026 – 17 Dec 2026
- Results
- 15 Mar 2027
About This Opportunity
The International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) is an annual academic competition organized by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) for students in classes 1 to 10. This Olympiad aims to evaluate and improve students' understanding and abilities in computers and information technology, fostering problem-solving, critical thinking, and cognitive skills from an early age. The curriculum is designed to align with school syllabi while encouraging deeper exploration of computer concepts.
Students from classes 1 to 10, enrolled in SOF-registered schools across India and other participating countries, are eligible to participate. There are no minimum marks or other specific academic prerequisites to appear for the ICSO. Participation is facilitated exclusively through schools, ensuring a structured and accessible application process for all eligible students.
Participants gain global recognition, enhancing their academic profiles through national and international exposure. High-performing students have the opportunity to win scholarships, cash prizes up to ₹50,000, medals, and certificates. The Olympiad also helps students develop essential skills such as logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and problem-solving, which are crucial for future academic and professional success.
Every participating student receives a Student Progress Report (SPR) that analyzes their strengths and weaknesses, providing a detailed performance comparison at school, city, zonal, and international levels. This report also includes an analysis of past years' performance, offering valuable insights for continuous improvement and a clear path for skill development.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Class 1–10
- Age Range
- 6 - 15 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
Students must be enrolled in a SOF-registered school.
Prerequisites
- Basic computer knowledge relevant to their class curriculum.
Open to students in classes 1-10 (ages 6-15) enrolled in SOF-registered schools across India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal. No minimum marks required. Fee exemptions are available for students with major physical disabilities and children of martyred defense personnel.
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Academic Details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
The syllabus is aligned with CBSE, ICSE/ISC, and State Board curricula, covering topics from computer fundamentals, hardware, and software to advanced concepts like AI, robotics, networking, and programming, with increasing difficulty based on class level. It includes sections on Logical Reasoning, Computers and Information Technology, and an Achievers Section.
Rewards & Recognition
Award
₹50,000 Cash Prize
Top international rank holders are awarded cash prizes. The 1st rank winner receives ₹50,000, 2nd rank receives ₹25,000, and 3rd rank receives ₹10,000. Zonal toppers also receive cash awards up to ₹5,000.
Prizes
Gold Medals & Other Prizes
International and Zonal rank holders are awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals. Medals of Distinction are given to Zonal rank holders from 4 to 25. Gifts are also provided to some rank holders.
Certificate
Certificate from SOF
All participants receive a Certificate of Participation. Rank holders receive Certificates of Outstanding Performance (International), Certificates of Zonal Excellence (Zonal), and Certificates of Distinction.
Opens doors to
Achieving a high rank in a competitive national and international Olympiad like ICSO demonstrates a student's aptitude and can be a significant value-add to their academic profile for university admissions in STEM fields.
Career pathways
Participation provides a strong foundation for future careers in computer science, information technology, software development, and other engineering fields by developing key skills and competitive experience.
Recognition
International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Highlights
- Single-level examination, no Level 2.
- Student Progress Report (SPR) provided to every participant.
- Awards distributed at international, zonal, and school levels.
- Exemption from fees for students with major physical disabilities and children of martyred defense personnel.
Exam format
- Total marks
- 60
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Format
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
- Language
- English
Rounds & format
The ICSO is a single-level examination. For classes 1-4, the exam consists of 35 questions for a total of 40 marks. For classes 5-10, the exam consists of 50 questions for a total of 60 marks. The exam is divided into three sections: Logical Reasoning, Computers and Information Technology, and Achievers Section.
How entries are judged
Participants are ranked based on marks obtained in the single-level examination. Higher scores lead to better ranks at school, city, zonal, and international levels. In case of ties, specific tie-breaking rules apply for award distribution.
Selection process
Winners are selected based on their marks and overall performance in the Olympiad. International, zonal, and school-level ranks are awarded.
How to apply
- 1Students must obtain the application form from their respective schools.
- 2Complete the application form accurately and submit it to the school authorities.
- 3Submit the required fees along with the application form to the school.
- 4Individual applications are not accepted; all registrations must be consolidated and submitted by the schools to SOF.
How to prepare
- NCERT books/course books prescribed by CBSE/ICSE/State Boards
- MTG Class-wise Workbooks
- SOF Olympiad Trainer Mobile Apps
- Olympiad Skill Development System (OSDS)
- Previous Years' Papers
- Olympiads' Books of Reasoning
- ICSO Sample Papers
- ICSO Mock Test Papers
Fees & financial support
Fee details
The registration fee for students in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal is ₹170 (including GST) per student.
Financial support
SOF allocates over ₹24 Crores annually for awards, scholarships, gifts, and felicitations across its Olympiads. ICSO winners receive international, zonal, and school topper awards, which include cash prizes and scholarships. Specific scholarships like the Girl Child Scholarship Scheme (GCSS), Scholarship for Excellence in English (SEE), and SOF Academic Excellence Scholarship (AES) are also part of SOF's broader scholarship initiatives, though specific ICSO-linked scholarships beyond prize money are not detailed.
Refund policy
Details regarding refund policy are not explicitly stated; typically, registration fees for competitive exams are non-refundable once submitted.
Frequently asked questions
What is the last date to register for International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) by SOF?
The registration deadline is 24 Aug 2026.
Is International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) by SOF free?
₹170 registration
Who can participate in International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) by SOF?
Students in Class 1–10. children aged 6-15.
What will my child gain from International Computer Science Olympiad (ICSO) by SOF?
Cash prizes up to ₹50,000 for international top rank holders.. Gold, silver, and bronze medals for international, zonal, and school toppers.. Certificates of participation for all students.. Certificates of Outstanding Performance for rank holders.. Student Progress Report (SPR) detailing performance analysis.. National and international recognition for academic achievement.. Development of critical computer science and IT skills..
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