FAQ
Common questions
Do I need olympiad experience to join?
No. Beginners are welcome. Start with the study plan and Quick practice. Biology knowledge builds with steady practice.
Who can take USABO?
According to the official guidelines, students in grades 9–12 who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Students register through a registered school. See About USABO for details and sources.
When is the exam?
For the 2027 USABO (school year 2026–27), the official Open Exam is February 3, 2027 · 4 PM ET. Dates change every year. Always check the official calendar.
Does it cost anything?
USABO charges schools a registration fee. For the current season, it is a flat fee per school that covers all participating students. Ask the club sponsor (Amanda Miller) how Plano East is handling registration.
Are the practice questions real USABO questions?
No. They are original, club-created USABO-style practice. For real past exams, use the official materials.
Are the mocks like the real exam?
They follow the general format (for example, 50 minutes of single-answer questions for the Open-style mock), but they are unofficial and use club questions. A mock percentage does not predict an official score.
How much should I study?
About 2–3 hours a week outside meetings is enough if you keep it up. Consistency matters more than long sessions. Skip a week when you need to. The plan adjusts.
Where is my progress saved?
Only in this browser on this device. There are no accounts. Use Export and Import on the Progress page to move between computers.
I think a question is wrong. What do I do?
Use Report a problem under the question. Officers review reports and record every correction in the question's version history.
Do I have to join the club to use this site?
No. Anyone can use it. Club meetings add group problem solving and explanations.