British Physics Olympiad

Competitions

• Physics Challenge (year 13)
• BPhO Round 1
• BPhO Round 2
• Intermediate Physics Challenge (Year 11)
• Senior Physics Challenge (Year 12)
• Junior Physics Challenge (Year 10 online)

Why take part?

The British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) aims to encourage the study of Physics and recognise excellence in young physicists through ten annual Physics and Astronomy & Astrophysics competitions.

The competitions are designed to test understanding and problem solving skills and are open to able young physicists in school years 11-13 (GCSE to A2/IB/Highers or equivalent).

Participation in a British Physics Olympiad is a challenge for able students which allows them to:

• Have fun problem solving
• Experience the perseverance and determination required to solve harder problems
• Test their knowledge with stimulating questions
• See the real-world problem-solving potential of physics
• Practise open-ended and unstructured questions, as seen at higher levels of study
• Gain a prestigious award for CVs and UCAS forms
• Win Certificates and book prizes
• Develop the skills required for admission to top universities
• Compare their attainment with students from all over the United Kingdom
• Qualify for additional training with the best students, and the chance to represent Britain at the International Physics Olympiad.

Setting and marking papers

We recognise that teachers are busy and aim to make our competitions as easy as possible to run in your school. Most examination papers require just one hour, either in lessons, after school or at home.

The Physics Challenge, and details of how to enter our other competitions are sent to all schools in September.

The Physics Challenge, Senior Physics Challenge and Intermediate Physics Challenge are supplied with easy-to-follow mark schemes and are marked in school. Any queries are dealt with promptly by the Administration Office. Certificates are emailed out to schools. Almost all of the competition papers are FREE to enter for UK schools.

The BPhO Round 1 and later rounds are marked by a team of experienced markers at Oxford.
Schools in China must participate through ASDAN China. To register please visit www.seedasdan.org/bpho, or contact science@seedasdan.org for more information.