List of SOF Olympiad exams in India - Maths & Science Foundation

Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) organizes Olympiad examinations every year for various subjects for students of classes 1-12. It is a non-profit organisation that hosts the largest Olympiad in the world where millions of students across 99,499+ schools and 72 countries participate in these exams to evaluate and enhance their knowledge in areas such as Science, Maths, English and others We have provided you with much valuable information on SOF Olympiad exam dates, registration process, syllabus, etc. in this article. Continue reading to learn more about the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) exams, dates of exams, eligibility, pattern of exam and more.

Students from classes 1 to 12 can take part in these examinations. But students of Class 11 and Class 12 cannot apply to all the examinations; some are restricted to Class 10. In this paper, we shall go through the list of SOF Olympiad exams in India with particular attention to Maths and Science Foundation exams. You will know the importance of appearing in these exams and how it can build the academic mindset of a student, step after step. 

What is Science Olympiad Foundation Exam?

Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) is an educational organization that conducts some of India’s most popular school-level competitive exams. If you have ever asked yourself what is science olympiad foundation exam, the answer is simple-it is an initiative to discover and nurture young talent through well-organized Olympiads in Science, Mathematics, English, Cyber, and General Knowledge.

SOF conducts different Olympiads for children between grades 1 and 12 which are usually held at several levels, starting in school and progressing to national and international levels. The top performers in these exams get certificates, medals, scholarships and other rewards and recognition. Students who take part in SOF Olympiad exams gain recognition and also enhance their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities and overall performance in school.

SOF Olympiad Dates

It is important to know the dates of the SOF olympiad exams for proper planning and stress-free preparation. SOF typically publishes its examination calendar much earlier so that students and schools can organize their study planner effectively. Every Olympiad- whether science or mathematics, has several examination dates, and schools  have the flexibility to select the one that best fits them.

Depending on the subject, the SOF olympiad dates usually span between September and January. Level 1 is conducted first after which those students who qualify can appear in Level 2. This step-by-step method ensures that students are not overwhelmed but are focused and motivated.

Schools can select a single day for conducting the Olympiad exam in their school. No date change is allowed. Different question papers are set for different dates. Schools may send registrations by 30 days before the chosen date of each exam. 

Let’s have a look at the level 1 dates of the academic year 2025-2026:

• The dates of the 2nd level exams will be released in January 2026.
• 2nd level exams will be held for students from classes 3rd to 12th for SOF IEO, SOF NSO & SOF IMO.
• SOF ISSO, SOF IGKO, SOF ICO, SOF IHO & SOF ICSO will be single level exams.

SOF International Mathematics Olympiad

Among all the SOF olympiad exams, the SOF IMO(International Mathematics Olympiad) is one of the most preferred by the students who love numbers, patterns and logic. The Olympiad is designed to strengthen mathematical reasoning skills while making problem solving interesting instead of frightening.

The SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is a popular olympiad exam that aims to encourage students of Classes 1 to 12 to excel in mathematics. Mathematical topics that IMO covers are geometry, algebra, arithmetic, and problem solving. The purpose of this Olympiad is to help students develop strong analytical and logical thinking skills as well as a love of mathematics.

How IMO Shapes Mathematical Thinking?

• Develops logical and analytical skills.
• Encourages creative approaches to problem-solving
• Develops both speed and precision simultaneously.
• Prepares students to compete in competitive exams.
• Bulbs a lifelong love for mathematics.

SOF Maths Olympiad

The SOF Maths Olympiad (IMO) is a prestigious annual olympiad exam conducted by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) for the students of classes 1-12. Its main aim is to improve mathematical skills and foster a love for mathematics among the students around the world.

Parents usually observe how regular participation enhances performance in school since the students become more comfortable with numbers and other calculations.

Benefits of Participating in Maths Olympiad:

• Enhances core concepts of mathematics.
• Enhances accuracy and time management.
• Develops confidence through regular practice.
• Promotes healthy academic competition.
• Lays a strong foundation for advanced education.

SOF Olympiad Books

It is important to select the right preparation resources, and SOF olympiad books are designed to do exactly that. The books are structured according to the latest exam patterns and focus on conceptual clarity, practice questions, and the trends of the previous years. Some recommended books are:

• Olympiad Workbooks for class 1-10 by MTG
• Olympiad Prep Guides for class 1-10 by MTG
• Olympiad Previous Year Papers class 1-10 by MTG

How to Use Olympiad Books Effectively?

• Begin with learning the conceptual explanations before practice.
• Complete sample papers under timed conditions.
• Review mistakes to strengthen weak topics.
• Practice on a regular basis.
• Combine books with revision of school syllabus.

SOF Olympiad Registration

Students can enroll in any SOF olympiad exams in India through their respective schools to obtain their form. Individual student registrations are not accepted.

The schools must submit the registration form of the SOF Olympiad 2025 15 days prior to the scheduled date of the SOF Olympiad Exam. The participants are highly advised to register for the tests as soon as possible to avoid any technical glitches that might occur related to Roll Number, exam links, or the issues with the Mock-Test, which might require some time to be modified.

Steps to Apply for SOF olympiad registration by School

• When the school authority is registered with the SOF, the students need to coordinate with their school teacher or principal to get the SOF application form.
• Students are required to complete it with all required information and hand the SOF Olympiad application form to their school authorities.
• The schools will send the student registration sheet and forms to the SOF before the final date.

SOF Olympiad Registration Fee

Schools should make sure that they submit the completely filled registration forms with payment to SOF, with their SOF School Code mentioned.

For schools in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal:

• SOF Olympiad Registration Fee is Rs. 125 per student per Olympiad (including GST).
• Schools can also include an extra payment fee of Rs. 25 per student to cover expenses such as  the appearance fee of the individual in charge, and the teacher compensation for guiding and instructing .
• Students who have a major physical disability or whose parents were martyred during defense operations are exempted from the registration fee.

For Schools in Other Counties:

• The SOF Olympiad Registration Fee charged by schools in other countries is US$11 per student per Olympiad.
• Similar charges of an extra US$1 per student can be added to cover expenses such as indicated above.

Advantages of Participating in SOF Olympiad

• Preparation of Competitive Exams: The tough preparation of SOF Olympiad exams gives a good foundation for higher level competitive exams such as NTSE, JEE, NEET, and so on.
• Good Academic Profile: Results in SOF Olympiad Exams boost the academic profile of a student,making them stand out while applying to universities. Olympiad ranks are commonly considered as indicators of brilliant minds at prestigious universities.
• Scholarship Opportunities: Students with high performance have a chance to earn scholarships or even direct entry into top schools worldwide.
• National and International Platforms: SOF Olympiad Exam offers an opportunity to the students to compete at state, national, and global levels. This exposure will make them realize their position among their peers globally.

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Conclusion:

The journey through SOF Olympiads is not just about ranks or medals—it’s about growth. Each SOF olympiad exam plants confidence, curiosity, and discipline in young minds. Whether it’s mathematics or science, these exams prepare students for a future where thinking matters more than memorizing. When approached with the right mindset, SOF Olympiads become a joyful learning adventure rather than just another test.

FAQs:

1.What classes can appear for the SOF Olympiad exams?

Students from Class 1 to Class 12 can participate, depending on the subject and school affiliation.

2.Are SOF Olympiads difficult?

They are designed to be challenging yet if you focus on understanding,you can get good marks in the exam.

3.How many levels are there in SOF exams?

Most Olympiads have two levels, with Level 2 for top performers of Level 1.

4.Do SOF Olympiads help in future exams?

Yes, they build strong fundamentals, logical reasoning, and exam confidence useful for future competitive exams.

Also read:

Kickstart Your Child’s Olympiad Exam Preparation with PrepMed

List of Olympiad Exams in India: Government, National & International Options