testing a tower

In a knowledge event like the challenge shown above, being prepared may mean creating a binder of notes about what you’ve learned. In a lab or build event, it may mean testing things out and gathering data to improve your outcomes.

Science Olympiad Competitors

  • Science Olympiad consists of a wide variety of science and engineering events
  • Competitors can view more specific rules — from which they can decide on their favorites — when the 2027 season begins in Sep 2026
    • Most events at the State Tournament allow 2 competitors per team
    • Experimental Design and Codebusters allow 3 competitors
    • Many events can be done solo, for students who prefer this option
    • The entire team can contibute to studying and building
  • Each Science Olympiad team has up to 15 competitors
  • New to Science Olympiad? View our new schools page!

Resources for Competitors

Role of the Team Captain

  • Talk to classmates at the beginning of the season regarding what Science Olympiad is and the time commitment
  • Decides teammates for upcoming season (through tryout results, prior STEM experience, etc.)
  • Organize weekly meetings for studying & building
  • Play key role in organizing events of teammates
  • Communicate with the coach about what teammates need
  • Help coach coordinate team at tournament

NOTE: These recommendations are for C-division (high school) teams. For B-division (middle school) teams, the Team Captain should be supported by their coach and/or parent volunteers in taking a leadership role in one or more areas.

Team Preparation Calendar: