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How to Make the Most of the Winter Break for USABO Preparation

A Complete Preparation Guide, Study Resources, and Winter Training Program

The USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) is one of the most academically rigorous and influential science competitions in the United States. Many high-achieving USABO participants have gone on to receive offers from world-renowned universities such as Harvard, Stanford, Columbia, and Cambridge.

For students aiming to pursue majors in biology, medicine, or other life sciences, earning an award in USABO is a powerful academic credential and a strong boost to their university applications.

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USABO China Registration Is Now Open

  • Registration Deadline (China): March 24, 2026

  • Exam Date (China): April 4, 2026

  • Exam Format: Individual, written test (no laboratory component)

  • Question Format: 50 multiple-choice questions

  • Duration: 50 minutes

  • Scoring: 1 point per question, no penalty for incorrect answers

Registration assistance is available.

USABO Exam Content Overview

The USABO syllabus largely covers U.S. high school biology and AP Biology content, but with significantly increased difficulty. The competition places high demands on scientific understanding, English reading proficiency, and time management.

Main Topics Tested

  • Animal Anatomy and Physiology

  • Cell Biology

  • Genetics and Evolution

  • Plant Anatomy and Physiology

  • Ecology

  • Animal Behavior

  • Systematics

  • Bioinformatics

  • Neurobiology

USABO Preparation Strategies

Focus on High-Value Core Modules

Prioritize the most heavily tested topics:

  • Animal Physiology (25%)

  • Cell Biology (20%)

  • Genetics & Evolution (20%)

These three areas account for 65% of the total score, making them the most efficient focus during preparation.

Build a Strong Scientific Vocabulary

Organize key biological terminology by topic (e.g., cell biology, genetics). Memorize 10–15 English terms per day to avoid comprehension issues during the exam.

Choose the Right Textbooks

  • Foundation: Campbell Biology

  • Advanced Supplement: Biology (Krogh edition)

There is no need to study beyond the competition scope—focus on exam-relevant concepts.

Practice with Past Papers (Three Rounds Recommended)

  1. First round: Become familiar with question styles

  2. Second round: Full-length timed practice (50 questions in 50 minutes)

  3. Third round: Review mistakes and reinforce high-frequency topics

Master Time Management

Answer easier questions first, mark difficult ones, and return to them later. Avoid spending excessive time on any single question.

Stay Aware of Emerging Topics

Basic familiarity with modern biological concepts such as CRISPR and single-cell sequencing is recommended. In-depth research is not required; understanding fundamental definitions is sufficient.

USABO Winter Intensive Training Program (20 Hours)

Session 1: February 9–15
Session 2: February 23–March 1

Schedule:
Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday
Time: 14:00–16:00 (Afternoon)

Instructor Profile

Mr. Liu (Biology Instructor)

  • Master’s Degree in Medical Illustration, Johns Hopkins University (No.1 in U.S. medical research)

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences, University of Maryland

  • Former HOSA Category C Mental Health Judge

  • TESOL Certified English Instructor

  • Native-level American English instruction

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