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Often referred to as the “Oscar of international biology competitions,” the United States of America Biology Olympiad (USABO) has long attracted the attention of top universities worldwide. Each year, outstanding USABO award recipients are closely followed by leading institutions, as the competition brings together some of the most talented biology students from around the globe.

On this international stage, participants compete head-to-head with biology enthusiasts worldwide, demonstrating both depth of knowledge and advanced scientific thinking.

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Introduction to the USABO Biology Olympiad

The USABO is one of the most rigorous and advanced academic competitions in the field of biology. For students planning to pursue majors in biology, biomedical sciences, or medicine, USABO serves as a highly valuable academic credential and plays a significant role in strengthening university applications.

Originally established to select top U.S. students for participation in the International Biology Olympiad (IBO), USABO awards have, in recent years, become a major advantage for applicants to universities in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Earning a USABO award is widely regarded as a strong indicator of readiness for top-tier institutions.

Key Features of the USABO

• Designed to identify and cultivate top biology talent in the United States

• Organized by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE)

• More than 10,000 students participate annually

• High-performing students may be invited to elite scientific programs

• One of the most challenging biology competitions, with overall difficulty exceeding that of BBO

USABO is particularly suitable for students aiming to pursue advanced studies in biology, medicine, or related fields. For those who have completed or are currently studying Honors Biology or AP Biology, USABO provides a powerful academic extension and challenge.

Three Key Reasons to Participate in USABO

1. Ignite Interest in Life Sciences

USABO offers extensive learning resources and rigorous training, helping students develop a deeper interest in biology while exploring the complexity of life sciences.

2. Strengthen AP and School Biology Performance

USABO content overlaps significantly with AP, IB, A-Level, and standard high school biology curricula. Preparing for this higher-level competition often leads to substantial improvements in school biology performance.

3. A Strong Advantage for Top STEM University Applications

USABO awards are highly regarded by top universities in the U.S. and U.K., especially for majors in biology, medicine, and biomedical sciences, making the competition an ideal choice for academically driven students.

USABO Awards and Recognition

Each year, more than 10,000 U.S. high school students participate in USABO. Award recipients are frequently favored by world-renowned universities such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, Harvard University, Stanford University, Columbia University, and the University of Cambridge. In the China division, the gold award rate is approximately 10%.

Students who perform well in USABO gain a clear advantage when applying for majors such as medicine, biomedical science, genetics, and related disciplines. Award winners may also receive invitations to participate in prestigious international scientific programs.

Award Categories

• Gold Award: Top 10% overall

• Silver Award: Top 25% overall

• Bronze Award: Top 35% overall

• Regional Honorable Mention: Top 20% within each region (excluding national awardees)

Why USABO Stands Out

Registration for the 2026 USABO Biology Olympiad is now open. Students planning to pursue biology, biomedical science, or bioengineering should not miss this key competition in the first half of the academic year.

Exceptional Academic Value

USABO is one of the most challenging and prestigious biology competitions in the United States. Strong performance significantly enhances competitiveness for top medical and life science programs. Since the launch of the China national competition in 2016, many outstanding participants have been admitted to institutions such as Tsinghua University, Peking University, Harvard University, Stanford University, Columbia University, the University of Cambridge, the University of Chicago, the University of Pennsylvania, Duke University, and Northwestern University.

Develop Interest and Professional Competence in Biology

USABO preparation enables students to systematically explore biological theory while cultivating scientific thinking. The competition covers over 90% of high school biology content, helping students build a complete and structured knowledge framework.

Build a Solid Foundation for AP/IB Biology

USABO is typically held in April, making it an ideal preparation pathway for AP, IB, and other standardized biology exams. Participation strengthens conceptual understanding and improves exam performance.

USABO Registration and Exam Information

Timeline (China Division)

• Exam Date: April 4, 2026 (Saturday), 10:30–11:20 (50 minutes)

• Registration Deadline: March 24, 2026

Participation Details

• Registration Method:
  The USABO China Division is administered by ASDAN. Registration is available only through partner schools via the ASDAN International Science Assessment mini-program.

• Exam Language: English

• Exam Format:
  Individual competition, written exam only (no laboratory component)
  50 multiple-choice questions, 50-minute duration

Exam Content Distribution

• 25% Animal Anatomy and Physiology

• 20% Cell Biology

• 20% Genetics and Evolution

• 15% Plant Anatomy and Physiology

• 10% Ecology

• 5% Ethology (Behavior)

• 5% Biological Systematics

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According to official statistics, nearly 78% of USABO finalists are admitted to Top 20 global universities. For high school students aiming to apply for competitive majors such as Biology, Medicine, Life Sciences, or Neuroscience at top overseas universities, the USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) is a highly valuable academic credential that should not be overlooked.

If you are targeting elite universities, USABO is one of the most influential biology competitions you can participate in. Below is a complete 2026 USABO study plan and preparation guide to help students prepare efficiently and strategically.

Key Dates for 2026 USABO

• Registration Deadline: March 24, 2026

• Exam Date: April 4, 2026

• Exam Time: 10:30–11:20 (50 minutes)

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USABO Preparation Materials Collection

To achieve strong results in USABO, systematic and in-depth preparation is essential. Recommended materials include:

• Principles of Biochemistry

• Biology Competition Vocabulary List
  (A 180-page essential vocabulary book for both BBO and USABO preparation)

• Comprehensive Biology Notes (180 pages)

• Three Core Biology Reference Books

• Past USABO Exam Papers

2026 USABO Study and Preparation Plan

Phase 1: Knowledge Framework Review and Diagnostic Assessment (January)

Build a complete knowledge system based on the official syllabus:
Conduct a thorough review by mapping out key topics and constructing mind maps that integrate cell biology, genetics, plant and animal anatomy and physiology, ecology, and biological systematics into a coherent knowledge framework.

Identify weaknesses through targeted diagnostics:
Complete 2–3 sets of past USABO exams under timed conditions. After each test, spend twice the test time analyzing results. Go beyond correcting mistakes—classify every question by topic, calculate error rates by module, and identify recurring conceptual gaps.

Phase 2: Topic Deepening and Advanced Problem Solving (February)

Focus on intensive improvement in weak areas identified during diagnostics:

Biochemistry and Cell Biology:
Master enzyme kinetics, cell signaling pathways, cell cycle regulation, and the detailed steps and energy calculations of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

Genetics:
Develop fluency in Mendelian and non-Mendelian inheritance, genetic linkage and recombination, gene mapping calculations, and population genetics, including the Hardy–Weinberg principle.

Plant and Animal Physiology:
Systematically compare structures and functions across systems, with special attention to feedback mechanisms such as blood pressure and blood glucose regulation.

Essential Skill Development:
Strengthen the ability to extract key information from complex experimental data, graphs, and tables, and draw accurate biological conclusions efficiently.

Phase 3: Full-Length Simulations and Exam Strategy (March–Early April)

Realistic exam simulations:
Practice under full exam conditions—50 questions in 50 minutes—to improve time management and answer accuracy. USABO questions are lengthy and information-dense, making speed a critical success factor.

Exam mindset and techniques:
USABO often presents unfamiliar scenarios. Learn to strip away complex backgrounds and focus on core biological principles. Apply effective strategies such as elimination methods and extreme-case reasoning to maximize scoring efficiency.

2026 USABO Winter Intensive Preparation Course

To help students seize the critical pre-exam window, we offer a USABO Winter Intensive Camp, designed to maximize progress during the academic break. This program focuses on building strong foundations, structuring knowledge systems, and preparing students for high-level competition performance.

Early preparation ensures a smoother and more confident final sprint toward the exam.

Who Should Enroll

• Students aiming to achieve awards in USABO or Brain Bee, and strengthen applications to top-tier universities

• Students planning to pursue majors in Biology, Medicine, Neuroscience, Psychology, or related life sciences

• Students enrolled in IB, AP, or A-Level curricula who want to improve academic performance in biology

Course Schedule

USABO Winter Intensive Course (20 Hours)

• February 9–15: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 14:00–16:00

• February 23–March 1: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 14:00–16:00

Instructor Background

The course is taught by an instructor holding a Master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University (ranked #1 in medicine in the U.S.) and a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences from the University of Maryland. The instructor has served as a HOSA Category C Mental Health Judge, holds a TESOL International English Teaching Certificate, and delivers instruction in authentic American academic English.

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USABO 2026 Exam Date and Registration Information

The USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) – China Division is one of the most prestigious international biology competitions for high school students worldwide. The official exam schedule for USABO 2026 is as follows:

• Registration Deadline: March 24, 2026 (Monday)

• Exam Date: April 4, 2026 (Saturday)

• Exam Time: 10:30–11:20 (50 minutes)

• Score Release: 4–6 weeks after the exam,预计 early May 2026

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2026 International Academic Competition Overview

(Only selected competitions are listed below. For full competition details and registration assistance, please contact us.)

Mathematics

• AIME Challenge

• Euclid Mathematics Contest

• AMC 8 / AMC 10 / AMC 12

• IMMC (International Mathematical Modeling Challenge)

Physics

• F = ma

• Physics Bowl

• BAAO

• BPHO / IPC / SPC

• CAP

• SIN Physics Contest

Chemistry

• CCC

• UKChO

• USNCO

• C3L6 Chemistry League

Biology

• USABO

• Brain Bee Neuroscience Competition

Economics & Business

• NEC National Finals

• IEO (International Economics Olympiad)

Other Competitions

• IOLC

• NOAI

• USAAIO

• HIR

USABO 2026 Exam Rules and Format

• Eligible Grades: Grades 9–12 (high school students)

• Exam Format: Individual competition, English-only

• Duration: 50 minutes (approximately 1 minute per question)

• Number of Questions: 50 multiple-choice questions

  • Some questions may have multiple correct answers; full credit is awarded only if all correct options are selected

• Scoring:

  • Total score: 50 points

  • +1 point for each correct answer

  • No penalty for incorrect or unanswered questions

• Exam Mode: Offline written exam (schools may apply for online testing)

• Experimental Section: None

USABO Awards and Honors

• Super Gold Award (Top 5%)
  A strong academic credential for applicants targeting Ivy League universities and MIT.

• Gold Award (Top 10%)
  Reference cutoffs:

  • 2024: 25 points

  • 2025: 33 points
    (Cutoff scores fluctuate annually.)

• Silver Award (Top 25%)
  Provides a competitive edge for U.S. Top 30 universities and elite domestic institutions.

• Bronze Award (Top 35%)
  Helps applicants stand out in U.S. Top 50 admissions.

• Regional Excellence Award (Top 20% by region)
  Ideal for younger students building early competition experience.

Brain Bee Neuroscience Introductory Course

Zero-Foundation Friendly | Grades 5–8 | Trial Class: ¥9.9

Can Your Brain “Trick” You?

An Introduction to Sensation and Perception

The Brain Bee Neuroscience Competition originated in the United States and is a globally recognized academic challenge for young students. It is jointly supported by leading organizations such as:

• American Psychological Association

• Society for Neuroscience

• European Neuroscience Society

• Dana Foundation

• International Brain Research Organization

• Alzheimer’s Association

This program is ideal for students interested in biology, neuroscience, psychology, chemistry, artificial intelligence, and related fields. The trial course introduces core Brain Bee concepts and question styles, laying the groundwork for future competitions such as Brain Bee and USABO.

Course Highlights

• No prior knowledge required
  A structured introductory experience designed for beginners.

• Engaging, real-life examples
  Learn neuroscience through everyday phenomena and cognitive illusions.

• Instruction by top scholars
  Led by a UC San Diego–trained neuroscience expert.

• Clear academic pathway
  Direct preparation for Brain Bee and USABO competitions.

Course Details

• Class Topic: How Your Brain “Tricks” You – Sensation & Perception

• Group: Junior Division (Grades 5–8)

• Class Time: February 6, 2026, 6:00–7:00 PM

Instructor Background

• M.S. in Cognitive Science, University of California, San Diego (Full Scholarship)

• B.S. with Honors in Neurobiology & Behavior and Cognitive Science, University of California, Davis

• Over 10 years of international study and teaching experience

• TOEFL Speaking: Full Score

• AP Board–Certified Instructor

Selected Student Achievements

• 2025 Brain Bee National Finals:

  • 7 First Prizes (including Taiwan regional champion and national rank #13)

  • 2 Second Prizes, 6 Third Prizes

• 2025 Brain Bee Regional Competitions:

  • 3 First Prizes (including Guangxi Regional Champion)

  • 12 Second Prizes, 4 Third Prizes

• 2025 USABO:

  • 2 Super Gold, 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 4 Bronze

• 2025 BBO:

  • 2 Gold, 1 Silver, 2 Bronze

• 2025 HOSA Behavioral Health:

  • 1 student advanced to the Global Round

• 2024 British Psychology Olympiad (BPO):

  • 2 students advanced to the Global Round

Course Pricing

• Original Price: ¥1,999

• Trial Class Special Price: ¥9.9

Secure your seat and begin your journey into neuroscience and biology competitions.

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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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Taught by Elite Coaches from the Global & U.S. Divisions — Choose Hanlin for Double Gold Results

The USABO Biology Olympiad is widely recognized for its exceptional academic value. However, when it comes to how to prepare effectively for USABO, many students find themselves without a clear roadmap. In this article, we provide a step-by-step guide to help students build a systematic and efficient USABO preparation strategy.

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USABO Biology Olympiad Preparation Guide

As one of the most prestigious biology competitions in the world, earning an award in USABO can significantly strengthen a student’s application to top universities—especially for life science–related majors in the United States. With the 2026 competition approaching, now is the time to begin focused preparation.

1. Competition Timeline

• Competition Date: April 4, 2026

• Registration Deadline: March 24, 2026 (registration assistance available)

• Format: Individual competition, online written exam

2. Competition Format

• Question Type: 50 multiple-choice questions (English only)

• Duration: 50 minutes

• Scoring:

  • 1 point for each correct answer

  • No penalty for incorrect or unanswered questions

  • Total score: 50 points

3. Exam Content Breakdown

• 25% Animal Anatomy and Physiology

• 20% Cell Biology

• 20% Genetics and Evolution

• 15% Plant Anatomy and Physiology

• 10% Ecology

• 5% Ethology (Behavior)

• 5% Systematics

The official 2026 USABO exam date has been announced. Students planning to participate should accelerate their preparation. If you aim to leverage USABO awards to strengthen your Ivy League or top-tier university applications, our program is designed to support you every step of the way.

USABO Core Knowledge Trial Class

What Will You Gain from the Trial Class?

• In-depth Concept Mastery: Comprehensive explanations of high-frequency USABO topics to build a solid foundation

• Problem-Solving Frameworks: Learn how to transform complex biological knowledge into structured solution strategies

• Efficiency-Focused Learning: Replace unfocused studying with targeted, score-oriented preparation

Course Schedule

Course Instructor

Instructor Yu (Biology)

• Chief Editor of USABO & BBO Teaching Materials

• Senior USABO/BBO Coach

• M.S. in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, University of Texas at Dallas

• 6 years of overseas academic experience

• Extensive research background

• AP Biology Officially Certified Teacher by the College Board

Competition Results Under Instructor Yu

• 2024–2025 USABO:

  • U.S. Division: 4 Semifinalists, 1 Finalist

  • China Division: 5 Super Gold, 12 Gold, 13 Silver, 15 Bronze

• 2025 BBO:

  • 18 Gold, 16 Silver, 8 Bronze

• 2023–2024 USABO:

  • U.S. Division: 1 Semifinalist

  • China Division: 9 Gold, 11 Silver, 7 Bronze, 2 Regional Merit Awards

Program Advantages

• Elite Coaching Team
  Instruction delivered by the same coaches teaching in the Global and U.S. divisions, including the chief editors of official USABO/BBO materials. Courses are available in bilingual or fully English formats, replicating an authentic American classroom environment.

• Exclusive Study Materials
  Internally developed course notes strictly aligned with the official USABO syllabus, organized by high-frequency exam topics. Students also gain access to original textbooks such as Molecular Biology of the Cell (PDF editions), ensuring comprehensive exposure to competition-level content.

• Comprehensive Academic Support
  Pre-course one-on-one diagnostic assessments, personalized study plans, guided practice on high-frequency topics by master’s and PhD-level mentors, and regular performance reviews. While others rely on unfocused practice, our students prepare with precision and purpose.

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