CREST Science Olympiad (CSO)
Trophy & Medals for Winners
International online science competition by CREST Olympiads for KG-10 students. Enhances science skills and logical reasoning for competitive exam preparation.
Mode
Online
Fee
₹225
Participation format
Individual
Duration
45-60 minutes
Time needed
60-minute exam (45 minutes up to UKG); Level 2 for qualifiers
Eligibility
Open to students in KG through Grade 10 from CBSE, ICSE, State, and International boards, both Indian and international. Assesses logical thinking and science concepts. No specific academic percentage required.
- Grade level
- LKG, UKG & Grade 1 to 11
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Consistent academic performance in science subjects.
- Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of science concepts relevant to their grade level
- Familiarity with online assessments
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Trophy & Medals for Winners
International Ranks 1-3 are awarded an Achiever's Trophy. Medals are awarded to the top 10% of students, providing tangible recognition for their outstanding performance in the competition.
Certificate
Certificate of Merit/Participation
All participants receive a digital participation certificate. Merit Certificates are awarded to the top 25% of students, and Honourable Mention Certificates are given to students ranking in the top 25%-50%, recognizing their achievement.
Opens doors to
Participation and high performance in the CREST Science Olympiad provide early exposure to the format and rigor of future competitive exams like SAT, JEE, and NEET, building a strong foundation for success.
Recognition
International Level Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 24 Apr 2026
- Registration closes
- 31 Oct 2026
- Competition
- 3 Dec 2026 to 12 Dec 2026
- Results
- 15 Mar 2027
Level 2 Exam Dates (Tentative)
Tentative dates for the Level 2 examination, typically held in February. Specific slots will be announced for qualified students. (IST)
Level 2 Exam Dates (Tentative)
Additional tentative date for the Level 2 examination. (IST)
Online · CREST Olympiads Online Platform
How to apply
- 1Register online individually or through school
- 2Fill in required details
- 3Complete the online payment
Rules and guidelines
- The exam is an objective-type test
- Mobile devices are not allowed for the exam
- For KG and Grade 1, the exam is parent/teacher assisted
- Students need to qualify for Level 1 to be eligible for Level 2
- Separate question papers are provided for each class
- Adhere to the exam schedule and timings
- Ensure a stable internet connection during the exam
Technology requirements
- Laptop
- Tablet
- Desktop with webcam
- Stable internet connection
Fees and financial support
Fee details
The exam fee is INR 225 for students studying and enrolling from India. For students studying and residing outside of India, the fee is country-specific. For Prep/KG the fee is INR 180.
About this opportunity
The CREST Science Olympiad (CSO) is an international online science competition designed to challenge students from KG to Grade 10 and cultivate scientific curiosity. It assesses logical thinking, analytical ability, and conceptual understanding of various science topics. This Olympiad serves as a stepping stone for preparing students for competitive exams like SAT, JEE, and NEET.
The CSO is open to students from KG to Grade 10, including those enrolled in CBSE, ICSE, State, or International boards. Both Indian and international students are eligible to participate either through their school or individually. The exam is conducted online and has two levels for students in grades 3-10. Students in lower grades (KG-2) participate in a single-level exam.
Participating in the CREST Science Olympiad helps students enhance their problem-solving skills and promotes outside-the-box thinking. It cultivates analytical thinking and increases in-depth knowledge and understanding of science concepts. The Olympiad also gives students insight into the competition that exists beyond their school, aiding in preparation for future competitive exams.
The exam consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). For students in KG, the exam duration is 45 minutes and is parent/teacher assisted. For students in grades 1-10, the exam duration is 60 minutes. The syllabus is aligned with national and international boards, covering essential science topics appropriate for each grade.
Exam format
- Total marks
- 60
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Format
- MCQs
- Language
- English
Rounds and format
Level 1 for all participants, Level 2 for top performers in Level 1
How entries are judged
Based on accuracy, speed, and problem-solving skills
Selection process
Top performers in Level 1 qualify for Level 2; overall scores determine final ranking
How to prepare
- Sample papers
- Previous year question papers
- Olympiad workbooks
Academic details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
The syllabus is aligned with national and international boards, including CBSE, ICSE/ISC, and other State Board syllabi.
Frequently asked questions
How can students effectively manage competitive pressure during the Olympiad?
Students can manage pressure by focusing on consistent preparation, practicing with sample papers to build familiarity, and developing time management skills. A positive mindset and understanding that participation itself is a valuable learning experience are also crucial for optimal performance.
What are common preparation mistakes students should avoid to maximize their performance?
Common mistakes include rote learning instead of conceptual understanding, neglecting weaker topics, and not practicing under timed conditions. Students should focus on analytical thinking, regularly review their progress, and seek clarification on challenging concepts to avoid these pitfalls.
How does participation in this Olympiad contribute to a student's long-term academic and career goals?
Participating in the Olympiad enhances problem-solving and analytical skills, provides exposure to competitive exam formats, and builds a strong foundation for future competitive exams like JEE, NEET, and SAT. This aids in higher education pursuits and potential STEM careers.
What strategies can students employ to improve their logical reasoning and critical thinking skills for the exam?
To improve logical reasoning, students should regularly solve puzzles, brain teasers, and higher-order thinking questions. Analyzing solutions and understanding underlying principles, along with consistent practice across various problem types, are key to developing these essential skills.
What technical requirements are essential for a smooth online examination experience?
Participants require a desktop or laptop with a functional webcam, a stable internet connection (2 Mbps recommended), and an updated web browser. It is crucial to test the system well in advance of the exam to prevent any technical disruptions on the day of the competition.
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