Olympiad Registration 2026: How to Register for SOF Olympiad Exams

Olympiad Registration 2026 is the essential first step for every student who wants to participate in the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) exams, including NSO, IMO, IEO, IGKO, ICSO, ISSO, IHO, and ICO. Unlike many competitive exams, SOF Olympiad registration is primarily conducted through schools, making the process streamlined and accessible. This comprehensive guide walks you through the complete registration process, fees, application form details, and important deadlines.

Overview: Who Can Register?

SOF Olympiad exams are open to students from Classes 1 to 12 studying in schools recognised by SOF. The key requirement is that registration must be done through the school; individual student registrations are generally not accepted by SOF. The school acts as the official liaison between SOF and the students.


SOF Olympiad Registration 2026: Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: School Registration with SOF

  • The school must be registered with SOF. New schools can apply by writing to info@sofworld.org or calling (0124)-4951200.

  • SOF dispatches a registration prospectus (with application forms) to all registered schools, typically in July–August each year.

Step 2: Obtaining the Application Form

  • Students should contact their class teacher or school coordinator to obtain the SOF Olympiad registration form.

  • Forms are part of the prospectus received by the school from SOF.

Step 3: Filling the Application Form

  • Fill in personal details: Name, Class, Date of Birth, School Name.

  • Mention the Olympiad(s) you wish to appear for (you can register for multiple Olympiads).

  • Double-check all details before submission.

Step 4: Submitting the Form and Fee

  • Submit the completed form along with the registration fee to your school coordinator.

  • The school compiles all student registrations and submits them to SOF as a batch.

Step 5: School Submits to SOF

  • The school submits all forms and fees to SOF at least 15 days before the chosen exam date.

  • SOF then dispatches question papers and roll numbers to the school.

SOF Olympiad Registration Fees 2026-27

Country

Registration Fee per Student per Olympiad

India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal

₹125 (including GST)

Schools (additional admin charge)

Up to ₹25 per student (optional)

Other countries

USD 9 per student

Underprivileged/sponsored students (international)

USD 1 per student

Students with major physical disabilities (India)

Exempt from fee

Students whose parents were killed in defence operations

Exempt from fee

Note: For the 2026-27 session, fee structures may be updated. Always confirm with the official SOF prospectus or website.

Olympiad Application Form: Key Details

Field

Details Required

Student Name

Full name as per school records

Class & Section

Current class and section

Date of Birth

As per school records

School Name

Full official name

School Code

Assigned by SOF to registered schools

Olympiad(s)

Select one or more from NSO, IMO, IEO, IGKO, etc.

Parent/Guardian Name

Required for records

Contact Details

School's contact or parent's contact

Important Registration Deadlines

Activity

Timeline

SOF prospectus dispatch to schools

July–August

Recommended registration start date

At least 30 days before exam

Mandatory submission deadline

15 days before chosen exam date

Roll number generation

After school submits forms

Admit card / Mock test access

After roll number confirmation

Can Students Register Individually?

SOF's primary channel is school-based registration. However, if a student's school is not participating in SOF Olympiads, the student may contact SOF directly:

SOF may facilitate individual registration in some cases, or the student may request their school to register as a new SOF-affiliated institution. At least 10 students must be enrolled per Olympiad at the school level for a school to participate.

Registering for Multiple Olympiads

Students are encouraged to participate in multiple Olympiads to broaden their exposure. A separate registration fee applies for each Olympiad. There is no limit to the number of Olympiads a student can register for in a single academic year.

Olympiad

Subject Focus

Eligible Classes

NSO

Science

1–12

IMO

Mathematics

1–12

IEO

English

1–12

IGKO

General Knowledge

1–10

ICSO

Computer Science

1–12

ISSO

Social Studies

3–10

IHO

Hindi

1–10

ICO

Commerce

11–12

What Happens After Registration?

  1. The school receives question papers from SOF before the exam.

  2. Students receive their Roll Numbers for identification.

  3. Access to Mock Tests on SOF Olympiad Trainer is enabled.

  4. The exam is conducted within the school premises on the chosen date.

  5. Answer keys are released within 2–3 weeks of the exam.

  6. Results are published on the SOF official website.

Tips for a Smooth Registration Process

  • Register early — late registrations can cause issues with roll numbers and mock test access.

  • Verify fee payment — get a receipt from your school for the fee submitted.

  • Confirm the exam date your school has selected, as date changes are not allowed.

  • Keep a copy of the filled application form for your records.

Olympiad registration is simple when done through the school. Get in touch with your school Olympiad coordinator today and secure your spot in one of India's most prestigious academic competitions.