The Science Olympiad is an international nonprofit organization devoted to improving the quality of science education, increasing student interest in science and providing recognition for outstanding achievement in science education by both students and teachers. Teams of 15 students develop their teamwork and problem solving throughout the year in preparation for each of the events. Middle and high school teams initially compete in one-day regional tournaments that are held at several locations throughout Tennessee. The top 24 teams from each division advance to the state tournament held at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, in the spring. The winning team in each division then competes in the National Tournament generally scheduled in late May.

There are multiple events in earth science, biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, computers and technology that follow the format of popular board games, TV shows, and athletic games. Events in the Science Olympiad have been designed to recognize the wide variety of skills that students possess. While some events require knowledge of scientific facts and concepts, others rely on science processes, skills or applications.

Science Olympiad is an ideal way to increase student interest in science and engineering in a school. The knowledge and skills that students develop through competing in Science Olympiad improves their overall academic performance and helps prepare them for college. Participation in Science Olympiad is the kind of extra-curricular activity that is prized by admissions committees for prestigious summer programs, such as the Governor’s Schools, and by college and scholarship evaluation committees.

This website provides information about the Tennessee Science Olympiad Program. To register a team, please click on the Registration Information link. Information about how to start a team can be found under the Coach and Team Resources. Policies for the Tennessee Science Olympiad are found here.