About the Contest
As the premier biology competition for US high school students, the USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) enriches the life science education of nearly 10,000 students every year. In 2016 ASDAN China became an official USABO partner, bringing the contest to China as the BioOlympiad Initiative USA-China (BIO USACN), where Chinese students compete alongside 10,000 American students.
The competition covers cell biology and biochemistry, ecology, genetics and bioinformatics. Starting from the Open Exam (50 multiple-choice questions in 50 minutes, held every February), top students advance through the Semifinal and National Finals towards selection for the US team at the International Biology Olympiad (IBO).
USABO officially recommends classic textbooks such as Campbell Biology for preparation. Its difficulty extends from AP Biology into university-level content, making it one of the most prestigious events for biology and medical school applications.
Key Facts
- The top US high school biology competition with nearly 10,000 annual participants
- Open Exam: 50 multiple-choice questions in 50 minutes, every February
- Covers cells, biochemistry, ecology, genetics and bioinformatics
- A multi-stage pathway to the US National Finals and the IBO team
2027 Contest Schedule
- China: 3 April 2027 (Saturday), 10:30–11:20
- US Online Open Exam: 3 February 2027, 4:00 PM ET
- US Semifinal Exam: 2 March 2027, 4:00 PM ET
Participation Info
- Suitable Grades
- Grade 9-12
- Contest Time
- China: 3 April 2027; US Open Exam: 3 February; US Semifinal: 2 March
- Format
- 50 multiple-choice questions, 50 minutes, online
LighTon Coaching Programmes
USABO Training Courses
Foundation Course
For students new to the contest
- Systematic coverage of the syllabus and key terminology
- Build a solid framework bridging schoolwork and contest level
- Small group or 1-on-1, online and in person
Intensive Course
For students with a foundation aiming at awards
- Past-paper drills with proven question patterns
- Topic training with biweekly tests to adjust priorities
- Progress reports keeping parents in the loop
Sprint Course
For students nearing the exam date
- Full mock exams with question-by-question review
- Targeted gap filling and score-maximising strategy
- Exam mindset and time-management coaching
Tutors
USABO courses are taught by subject-specialist tutors with years of international curriculum and competition experience.
Meet LighTon's Select TutorsTrack Record
- Our students regularly win awards in major contests — results updated continuously
- Students consistently achieve top grades in the matching IB / AP / A-Level subjects
Frequently Asked Questions
Which grades is USABO suitable for?
Grade 9-12
When is the USABO held?
China: 3 April 2027; US Open Exam: 3 February; US Semifinal: 2 March
What is the format of the USABO?
50 multiple-choice questions, 50 minutes, online
What USABO coaching does LighTon offer?
LighTon offers foundation, intensive and sprint courses for the USABO, in 1-on-1 or small-group formats, online and in person. Contact us for a free preparation plan and a trial lesson.
Preparing for USABO?
Book a free consultation for a personalised preparation plan and coaching schedule.