Humming Bird Science Olympiad (HSO)
by Humming Bird Education Ltd.
₹50,000 Cash Prize
An international science competition for students of classes 1-12 to test their scientific knowledge, reasoning, and application skills.
Mode
Hybrid
Fee
₹200
Participation format
Individual
Duration
The competition consists of two levels, with the main exam lasting 60 minutes.
Time needed
50-minute exam
Eligibility
Open to students in grades 1 to 12 from any recognized school board (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards). Registrations are accepted from both schools and individual students across India and other countries.
- Grade level
- Grade 1 to 12
- Age range
- 6 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Students must be enrolled in a school affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, a State Board, or any other recognized board in India or abroad.
- Prerequisites
- No specific academic prerequisites are required, other than enrollment in the eligible classes.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
₹50,000 Cash Prize
The 1st rank holder at the international level receives a cash prize of ₹50,000. The 2nd rank holder receives ₹25,000, and the 3rd receives ₹10,000. Zonal toppers are also eligible for cash prizes up to ₹3,100.
Prizes
Tablets, Medals & Watches
Top international rankers (1st, 2nd, and 3rd) receive tablets. Ranks 4 to 10 are awarded branded wristwatches. Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals are awarded to top performers at the international, zonal, state, and school levels.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
All participants receive a Certificate of Participation. Top-performing students at international, zonal, and state levels, as well as Level 2 qualifiers, are awarded Merit Certificates or Certificates of Excellence.
Opens doors to
Achievement in a competitive international Olympiad like HSO can strengthen a student's academic profile, showcasing their aptitude in science for college and university applications in STEM fields.
Recognition
International Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 1 Aug 2025
- Registration closed
- 31 Oct 2025
- Competition
- 24 Nov 2025 to 25 Dec 2025
How to apply
- 1Students can register through their respective schools via the school coordinator.
- 2Individual registrations are also accepted directly through the official Humming Bird Education website.
Rules and guidelines
- The exam is a computer-based test.
- All questions are in the Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) format.
- There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
- Participants must adhere to the exam schedule and guidelines provided in the admit card.
- Use of calculators or any electronic devices during the exam is strictly prohibited.
Technology requirements
- A computer or laptop with a stable internet connection is required for the online exam.
- A compatible web browser is necessary to access the examination portal.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
The registration fee for students applying from India is ₹200.
Refund policy
Registration fees are typically non-refundable. Please refer to the official website for the latest policy.
About this opportunity
The Humming Bird Science Olympiad (HSO) is a prestigious international competition designed for students in classes 1 to 12. It aims to assess scientific knowledge beyond the standard curriculum, focusing on conceptual understanding and the application of principles to real-world scenarios.
Open to students from CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, and other recognized educational boards, the HSO provides a platform to compete at national and international levels. Winners receive awards like tablets and medals, while all participants are provided with a participation certificate, a detailed performance analysis, and preparatory materials to encourage their scientific pursuits.
Exam format
- Total marks
- 60
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Format
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
- Language
- English, Hindi, Tamil
Rounds and format
Level 1 is the initial round conducted for all participants. Students who score 75% or more, or are in the top 10 state-wise rank holders, qualify for the Level 2 exam.
How entries are judged
Ranking is based on the marks obtained in the exam. In case of a tie, preference is given to students with higher marks in sections with higher-order thinking questions.
Selection process
Qualification for Level 2 is based on achieving 75% or more in the Level 1 exam, being in the top 10 state-wise rank holders for each class, or being a school's class topper.
How to prepare
- A free preparatory book is provided to every participant.
- Access to a dedicated mobile application with tutorials and practice tests is included with registration.
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
The syllabus is aligned with the curricula of CBSE, ICSE, and major State Boards, covering topics from Physics, Chemistry, and Biology relevant to each class level.
Frequently asked questions
How can students effectively prepare for the HSO competition to maximize their chances of success?
Effective preparation involves a combination of understanding the syllabus, practicing with sample papers, utilizing the provided preparatory books and mobile app, and focusing on conceptual clarity. Consistent practice and time management are crucial for success in the HSO.
What strategies can participants employ to manage competitive pressure and anxiety during the Olympiad examination?
Participants can manage pressure by practicing mock tests under timed conditions to simulate the exam environment. Developing strong problem-solving skills, maintaining a positive mindset, and ensuring adequate rest before the exam can also help in reducing anxiety.
How are the ranking factors determined in the HSO, and what impact do these rankings have on a student's academic profile?
Rankings are primarily based on marks obtained in the exam, with tie-breaking criteria often involving performance in higher-order thinking sections. High rankings provide national and international recognition, enhancing a student's academic profile for future educational and career opportunities in STEM fields.
What common mistakes should students avoid during their HSO preparation and during the actual examination?
Students should avoid rote learning and instead focus on understanding concepts deeply. During the exam, common mistakes include misreading questions, poor time management, and not reviewing answers. Familiarity with the online CBT format is also essential to avoid technical errors.
How does participation in HSO contribute to a student's long-term academic and career goals, beyond immediate awards?
Participating in HSO develops critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving skills, which are invaluable for STEM careers. It also provides exposure to competitive environments, strengthens academic foundations, and can be a significant credential for higher education applications.
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