Overview
The British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) runs a series of physics papers for school students in the UK and overseas. The rounds get progressively harder, and the top performers are invited to a training and selection camp to choose the UK team for the International Physics Olympiad.
Who can take part
Rounds 0, 1 and 2 are open to students in Year 13 or below. The Senior Physics Challenge (SPC) is for Year 12 students. Entries are made through schools.
Levels or stages
| Stage | 2026-27 date | Format |
|---|---|---|
| Round 0 | Thursday, October 1, 2026 | 1-hour multiple choice |
| Round 1 | Thursday, November 12, 2026 | 2-hour paper |
| Round 2 | Thursday, January 21, 2027 | 3-hour paper |
| Senior Physics Challenge (online) | January 18 to 22, 2027 | Two 30-minute papers, Year 12 only |
| Oxford training and selection camp | Around April 5 to 10, 2027 (provisional) | For students selected from Round 2 |
After the competition
Selection from Round 2 leads to the training and selection camp, from which the UK team for the International Physics Olympiad is chosen.
Fees
Entry fees were not confirmed on the pages checked; consult the BPhO website.
How to apply
Schools register students for each round through the BPhO website.
Preparation tips
Work through past BPhO papers in order, from Round 1 onward, and practise extended written physics problems.
Note
The official BPhO site could not be opened directly, so these details come from search summaries of its pages. Confirm dates and rules on the BPhO website.
Which rounds can a Year 12 student enter?
A Year 12 student can enter the Senior Physics Challenge, and Rounds 0, 1 and 2 are open to Year 13 or below.