SOF Olympiad Exam Guide (Classes 1–10)
The Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) conducts four Level 1 Olympiads that Indian schools participate in: IMO (Maths), IEO (English), NSO (Science) and ICSO (Computers). This guide covers the syllabus areas, exam pattern and marking scheme so students and parents can plan practice efficiently.
Exam pattern at a glance
| Classes | Questions | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1–4 | 35 | 60 minutes |
| 5–10 | 50 | 60 minutes |
All sections are multiple-choice (OMR). The Achievers Section carries higher marks per question than the other sections.
IMO — International Mathematics Olympiad
Subject focus: Mathematics. Level 1 papers follow the class-wise NCERT / ICSE / State board syllabus and add reasoning and higher-order questions.
Sections
- Logical Reasoning
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Everyday Mathematics
- Achievers Section
IEO — International English Olympiad
Subject focus: English. Level 1 papers follow the class-wise NCERT / ICSE / State board syllabus and add reasoning and higher-order questions.
Sections
- Word & Structure Knowledge
- Reading
- Spoken & Written Expression
- Achievers Section
NSO — National Science Olympiad
Subject focus: Science. Level 1 papers follow the class-wise NCERT / ICSE / State board syllabus and add reasoning and higher-order questions.
Sections
- Logical Reasoning
- Science
- Achievers Section
ICSO — International Commerce Olympiad / Computer
Subject focus: Computers. Level 1 papers follow the class-wise NCERT / ICSE / State board syllabus and add reasoning and higher-order questions.
Sections
- Logical Reasoning
- Computers & IT
- Achievers Section
Marking scheme
Non-Achievers sections typically carry 1 mark per question for Classes 1–4 and 1 mark per question for Classes 5–10. Achievers Section questions carry 2 or 3 marks. There is no negative marking in SOF Level 1 Olympiads.
Ready to practise?
Take a free full-length SOF mock test — pick your olympiad and class.
Start free demo