Harvard Undergraduate Science Olympiad (HUSO) India
Win a Harvard Summer Camp
Test your STEM knowledge and problem-solving skills in the prestigious Harvard Undergraduate Science Olympiad (HUSO) India. Foster your passion for science and innovation, and compete for a fully funded Harvard summer camp.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
₹2,000
Participation format
Individual
Duration
Round 1: 3 hours (online exam); Round 2: 4-Day STEM Bootcamp and Final In-Person Exam.
Time needed
3-hour online exam; top 100 attend a 4-day bootcamp
Eligibility
Open to students in Grades 7–10 (typically ages 12–16) across all states and union territories of India, with Category 1 for Grades 7–8 (equivalent to UK School Years 8–9) and Category 2 for Grades 9–10 (equivalent to UK School Years 10–11). Participants should have a strong academic foundation in Science and Mathematics. The competition is open to all genders, with no specific financial criteria or reservations.
- Grade level
- Grade 7 to 10
- Age range
- 12 to 16 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Students should possess a strong foundation in high school and ISC level Chemistry, and be proficient with the ICSE curriculum for 9th-10th grade in relevant science and mathematics subjects. Familiarity with advanced topics is beneficial but not strictly required for initial participation.
- Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Earth Science concepts at a middle and high school level.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Harvard Camp, Trophies & Medals
The top 10 winners will receive a USD 200 scholarship voucher for programs conducted by Learn with Leaders, while the overall winner will receive a fully funded summer camp at Harvard University. The top 10 students will also receive trophies and distinction medals, and the top 100 students will receive medals of merit.
Certificate
Certificate from Harvard Olympiad
All participants receive a Certificate of Participation. Top 100 performers are awarded a Certificate of Merit from the Harvard Undergraduate Science Olympiad.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Participation and achievements are highly regarded in applications to top-tier universities globally, especially for STEM programs. The winner's experience at the Harvard summer camp provides a significant advantage.
Career pathways
Provides invaluable networking opportunities and guidance from Harvard and MIT undergraduates, offering insights into academic and career pathways in STEM.
Recognition
National STEM Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 25 May 2026
- Registration closes
- 31 Oct 2026
- Competition
- 14 Nov 2026 to 15 Nov 2026
Round 1 Exam (Online)
For Category 1
Round 1 Exam (Online)
For Category 2
For Boot Camp, Delhi NCR Venue (To be announced)
How to apply
- 1Participants are required to complete a detailed registration form.
- 2A non-refundable registration fee must be paid at the time of application.
- 3Schools may also facilitate group registrations for their students.
Rules and guidelines
- Participants must be enrolled in grades 7-10.
- Round 1 is an online exam with multiple-choice questions.
- Top 50 students from each grade category (7th-8th and 9th-10th) will advance to Round 2.
- Round 2 involves an in-person exam and a STEM bootcamp.
- Calculators, rulers, and compasses are allowed during the exam, but formula sheets are not provided.
- Each correct answer in Round 1 yields 1 point; blank questions receive 0 points.
Technology requirements
- Reliable internet connection for the online exam.
- A computer or laptop with a stable browser for the online exam.
- A modern web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge) must be used for the online platform.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
A registration fee of ₹2000 + 18% GST per student is required. This fee covers participation in Round 1 (online exam) and, for qualifiers, the in-person exam and STEM bootcamp. Travel and accommodation costs for Round 2 are not included in the fee.
Refund policy
The registration fee is non-refundable once paid.
About this opportunity
The Harvard Undergraduate Science Olympiad (HUSO) India is a highly esteemed competition designed to challenge and inspire middle and high school students across India in critical STEM fields. This initiative is organized by Harvard College and MIT undergraduates, who bring extensive experience from various national and international science olympiads.
HUSO India aims to democratize STEM education, making it accessible to a wider audience, and to cultivate a deep passion for science and innovation among young minds. The competition is structured in two rigorous rounds: an initial online examination covering core subjects like Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science.
Top performers from this round are then invited to an exclusive in-person exam and an intensive 4-day STEM bootcamp. This unique program offers Indian students an unparalleled platform to engage in stimulating, interdisciplinary STEM activities, apply their knowledge to real-world problems, and compete alongside some of the brightest young minds nationwide.
HUSO India is proudly conducted in collaboration with Learn with Leaders, ensuring a global perspective and invaluable hands-on experience for all participants. The bootcamp provides direct interaction with Harvard and MIT mentors, offering insights into advanced STEM concepts and career pathways.
Exam format
- Duration
- 180
- Format
- Multiple-choice questions for Round 1.
Rounds and format
Round 1 is a 3-hour online exam with multiple-choice questions. Round 2 involves an in-person exam and a 4-day intensive STEM bootcamp in Delhi NCR.
How entries are judged
Based on performance in the online and in-person examinations.
Selection process
Top 50 students from each grade category (7th-8th and 9th-10th) from Round 1 qualify for Round 2.
How to prepare
- Resources and textbooks used for NSEC exam preparation.
- University-level general chemistry textbooks (e.g., Zumdahl Chemistry) and organic chemistry books (e.g., Klein Organic Chemistry) are recommended for advanced topics.
- Reviewing past NSEC papers.
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
Covers core subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Earth Science, with interdisciplinary applications. The curriculum includes topics aligned with ICSE for Grades 7-10, focusing on Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Thermodynamics, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genetics, Evolution, Plant and Animal Anatomy & Physiology, Geosphere, and Astronomy.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best strategies for students to excel in the interdisciplinary challenges of HUSO India?
Students can excel by developing a strong conceptual understanding across all STEM subjects, practicing integrated problem-solving, and engaging with advanced topics. Consistent practice with diverse question types and a focus on critical thinking are key to success.
How does the STEM bootcamp benefit students who qualify for Round 2, beyond the competition itself?
The STEM bootcamp offers an immersive learning experience with Harvard and MIT mentors, providing insights into advanced research, interdisciplinary projects, and career pathways. It fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and networking opportunities that extend beyond the competition.
What kind of support is available for students who might face technical difficulties during the online examination?
A dedicated technical support team will be available during the online examination window. Participants will receive contact details for immediate assistance via email prior to the exam. It is recommended to test the platform beforehand.
How can parents best support their children throughout the HUSO India competition journey?
Parents can provide a supportive learning environment, encourage consistent study habits, and help manage logistics for the online and in-person rounds. Focusing on the learning experience and growth, rather than solely on outcomes, can significantly boost a child's confidence.
What are the long-term advantages of participating in HUSO India for a student's academic and career trajectory?
Participation offers significant advantages for higher education admissions, especially in STEM fields at prestigious universities. The exposure to global mentors, advanced learning, and national recognition provides a strong foundation for future academic and professional success.
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