National Astronomy & Science Olympiad (NASO)
Trip to NASA, USA
A premier national-level Olympiad for grades 1-12, offering top winners a sponsored trip to NASA. Focuses on astronomy and space science.
Mode
Online
Fee
₹354
Participation format
Individual
Duration
The Level 1 and Level 2 examinations are each 60 minutes long.
Eligibility
Open to students from grades 1 to 12 studying under any recognized board (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards) across India. No minimum percentage or marks are required for participation.
- 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 recognized school under CBSE, ICSE, IGCSE, or any State Board.
- Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of science concepts relevant to the student's grade level.
- A keen interest in astronomy and space science is recommended.
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Prizes
Trip to NASA, USA
Top 3 national winners are awarded a sponsored educational trip to a NASA center in the USA. The next 6 winners receive a trip to an ISRO center in India. Other prizes include telescopes for grade-wise toppers, medals, and Student Sat kits.
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
All participants receive a digital certificate of participation and a detailed performance analysis report to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
Career pathways
Participants get exclusive access to free online power-up sessions and workshops with real-world astronomers and space scientists, providing valuable career exposure.
Recognition
National-level recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 1 Jun 2026
- Registration closed
- 31 Aug 2026
- Competition
- 16 Nov 2026 to 20 Nov 2026
- Results
- 28 Feb 2027
Admit Card Release
Download admit cards from the official website.
NASO Level-1 Exam (India)
Online examination for Level 1 participants in India.
NASO Level-1 Exam (Online)
Online examination for Level 1 participants, scheduled for the 4th week of November.
Level 1 Results Announcement
Results for Level 1 will be announced online on December 20, 2026.
NASO Level-2 Examination
National final round examination for qualified students on January 15, 2027.
Level 2 Results Announcement
Results for Level 2 will be announced online on February 28, 2027.
Online · NASO Online Examination Portal
How to apply
- 1Students can register individually through the official NASO website.
- 2Schools can also register their students in bulk.
- 3After registration and fee payment, participants receive access to study materials and exam details.
Rules and guidelines
- The exam must be taken on a computer or laptop with a stable internet connection.
- No other person is allowed in the room during the exam, except for a guardian to help read questions for students in grades 2 and 3.
- Use of mobile phones or any other electronic devices for unfair means is strictly prohibited.
- Participants must adhere to the specified time limits for the examination.
- Decisions made by the NASO organizing committee regarding results and winners are final.
Technology requirements
- A computer or laptop with a webcam
- Stable internet connection
- A modern web browser
Fees and financial support
Fee details
The registration fee is ₹300 plus ₹54 GST, for a total of ₹354 per student. Optional preparatory guides are also available for purchase separately.
Refund policy
The registration fee is non-refundable once the payment is completed.
About this opportunity
The National Astronomy & Science Olympiad (NASO) is a major competition designed to ignite a passion for STEM in students, focusing on astronomy and space science. Organized by Navars Edutech, it provides a platform for students to showcase their knowledge beyond the standard school curriculum on a national and international stage.
Participation is open to students from grades 1 to 12 across all major educational boards, including CBSE, ICSE, and State Boards. The competition begins with an online exam, making it accessible to students across India, and offers top performers incredible prizes, including trips to NASA or ISRO centers, fostering future careers in science and technology.
Exam format
- Total marks
- 50
- Duration
- 60 minutes
- Format
- Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ)
- Language
- English
Rounds and format
Level 1 is the initial online screening round. Qualifiers move to Level 2, which is the national final round. Top performers from Level 2 are selected for Level 3, the International Astronomy and Scientist Guest Program.
How entries are judged
Selection is based on the cumulative scores from Level 1 and Level 2 exams. In case of a tie, specific criteria set by NASO will be used to determine the final ranking.
Selection process
Students are selected for Level 2 based on their performance in the Level 1 exam. The final winners are chosen based on the combined scores of both levels.
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
The syllabus is based on CBSE, ICSE, and State Board curricula but is designed to test conceptual understanding, practical application, and research-based knowledge in science and astronomy.
Frequently asked questions
How can students prepare for the competitive nature of the NASO Olympiad?
Students can prepare by reviewing the syllabus, practicing with previous year's question papers, and engaging in online mock tests to familiarize themselves with the exam format and time constraints. Study and conceptual clarity are important for success.
What strategies can participants employ to manage performance anxiety during the online examination?
Participants can manage anxiety by practicing mindfulness techniques, ensuring they are rested before the exam, and having a comfortable environment. Familiarity with the online platform through mock tests also helps manage stress on exam day.
How are the ranking factors determined, especially in cases of tied scores in the NASO competition?
Ranking is based on cumulative scores from both Level 1 and Level 2 examinations. In the event of a tie, tie-breaking criteria, such as accuracy, time taken, or performance in specific sections, are applied as determined by the NASO organizing committee.
What are the mistakes students make during the NASO exam, and how can they be avoided?
Mistakes include misinterpreting questions, time management issues, and technical glitches. Students can avoid these by reading instructions, practicing under timed conditions, and ensuring their internet and device are functional before the exam begins.
Beyond the prizes, what benefits do participants gain from competing in the National Astronomy & Science Olympiad?
Participation develops critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an interest in STEM fields. It provides national recognition, exposure to scientific communities, and can support a student's profile for future academic and career opportunities in science and technology.
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