Intermediate Biology Olympiad 2026
UK Biology Competitions (UKBC)
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The Intermediate Biology Olympiad 2026 is an online competition for students in their first year of post-16 education (Y12 in England & Wales, Y13 in Northern Ireland, S5 in Scotland and equivalent year groups worldwide). Schools register candidates via their UKBC account; only teachers can register and must invigilate the exam.
Past papers are provided for practice, though mark schemes are not published.
For 2026 the site states the competition consists of two 35-minute papers taken online, and the FAQ also describes a sixty-minute multiple-choice format. Questions are based on topics likely covered at GCSE and the first year of A-level, with additional problem-solving elements to test deeper understanding.
Students can take the papers any time during the competition window under teacher supervision.
Entry is via school registration (£30 per school). Participating students are awarded e-certificates (Gold, Silver, Bronze, Highly Commended, Commended, Participation). Teachers receive instructions and admin accounts in advance; students are encouraged to reference participation on higher-education applications.
01 Mar 2026
05 Jun 2026 – 19 Jun 2026
Location
- Open to students in the first year of post-16 education: Y12 (England & Wales), Y13 (Northern Ireland), S5 (Scotland) and equivalent year groups worldwide.
- Students from all types of schools and from anywhere in the world may take part.
- Only teachers can register candidates and must invigilate the competition.
- Students must have access to an internet-connected device (computer, laptop, tablet).
- The competition assumes knowledge of the common elements of the beginning of A-level biology syllabi.
- Students who normally have additional time in public examinations may be allowed the appropriate extra time.
£30
£30 registration fee per school.
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