FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Everything students, parents and teachers ask most about the British Biology Olympiad. Can’t find your answer? Message us.
1Who can take part in the BBO?
In the UK it is for Year 12–13 students. The China-region exam is open to any high-school year (UK residents cannot sit the China-region exam). Students enter through a recognised school or institution — not as individuals.
2What does the exam involve?
It depends on your region. UK: two 45-minute multiple-choice papers. China region: one 90-minute paper with multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank and sequencing questions, in Chinese and English, sat at a partner school (online on request). Either way it rewards biological intuition over memorisation. Full format →
3How is it scored and what awards are there?
Awards span Gold, Silver, Bronze, Highly Commended and Commended. Thresholds are set by UK student performance, and international students are assessed against those fixed cut-offs rather than ranked against each other. More on results →
4When is the BBO held?
China-region exam: 17 January 2026, 10:00–11:30 (register by 6 January 2026). UK home competition: 19–28 January 2026. Registration details →
5How do China-region students take part?
Through their school. China-region students sit the exam at partner schools nationwide (online on request). We help schools get set up — get in touch.
6How much does it cost?
The China-region fee covers the activity, exam administration, marking and certificate. Message us with your school and location for the exact current fee — we won’t list a price we can’t confirm for your region.
7Are past papers available?
Yes — the full 2010–2026 archive of papers and answer keys is free. Visit the past-papers page and scan a code to receive any year’s paper plus the full prep pack.
8How should I prepare?
Solidify your biology fundamentals, read for breadth with a university-level text, and drill past papers under timed conditions. See the resources page for a full prep path.
9Are there summer camps for top performers?
Yes. A BBO summer camp in China (Qingdao, August 2026) is open to Silver-medal and above; a Cambridge summer school at St Catharine’s College (July 2026) is open to Gold-medal winners. See resources.
10What happens after the BBO?
Top performers are invited to UK team selection (typically over the Easter holiday), and the final team represents the country at the International Biology Olympiad, where more than sixty nations compete.
11Does a BBO award help with university applications?
A recognised award is a credible signal for competitive biology, medicine and life-sciences courses, and shows genuine subject passion beyond the curriculum.