Overview
The British Biology Olympiad (BBO) is an online biology competition for sixth-form students in the UK and equivalent students overseas, run under UK Biology Competitions. It is not mainly a test of recall: students apply biological principles to unfamiliar topics, alongside some basic knowledge questions. It assumes the common parts of the biology A level syllabuses. High scorers go on to UK team selection for the International Biology Olympiad (IBO).
Who can take part
Students in their final pre-university years can take part: Years 12 and 13 in England and Wales, Years 13 and 14 in Northern Ireland, S5 and S6 in Scotland, and equivalent years elsewhere. Only recognised schools, colleges and international schools can register students; tutoring companies and online-only providers cannot.
Reports of the UK Team Selection conditions add that students must have studied in the UK for at least the past two years and must not have taken part in UK team selection before.
Exam pattern
| Detail | BBO |
|---|---|
| Papers | Two |
| Duration | 45 minutes each |
| Format | Multiple choice, taken online at the registered school or college |
The papers can be taken together or on separate occasions within the window.
Important dates
For 2027, the competition window is January 15 to 25, 2027. Registration opens on October 1.
Fees
UK schools take part free of charge. International schools pay GBP 50 per institution.
After the exam
Top scorers get e-certificates from Gold down to Participation. High performers are invited to UK Team Selection, with further practical and theoretical assessment, to choose the team for the IBO. Participants are also eligible for BioNet membership of the Royal Society of Biology.
Preparation tips
Revise the core A level biology topics, then practise applying them to unfamiliar data and scenarios.
Can I register myself?
No. Your school or college must register you.