Overview
CSP-J/S is the China Computer Federation (CCF) Certified Software Professional certification for non-professionals (非专业级软件能力认证). It is the entry point of the national informatics olympiad path: strong CSP-S results lead to provincial selection for the National Olympiad in Informatics (NOI).
Levels or stages
Groups
| Group | Level |
|---|---|
| CSP-J (Junior, 入门组) | Entry level, algorithms and programming |
| CSP-S (Senior, 提高组) | Advanced level, algorithms and programming |
Candidates may take one group or both.
Rounds
| Round | Format | 2026 date |
|---|---|---|
| Round 1 | Written test (centres may use computers with CCF approval) | September 19, 2026 |
| Round 2 | Programming on a computer at a test centre, four problems per group | October 31, 2026 (Saturday) |
In 2026, CSP-J ran from 9:30 to 11:30 and CSP-S from 14:30 to 16:30 on each of those days, as reported for the first round.
Who can take part
Candidates must be at least 12 years old on September 1, 2026. Round 2 requires taking Round 1 of the same group and reaching the provincial cut-off score.
Important dates
For 2026, Round 1 registration closed on September 6, 2026 at 15:00. Round 2 registration is announced after Round 1.
How to apply
Register online through the CCF registration system. Each province has one Round 2 centre, and provincial notices may add local rules, so read your province's notice.
After the exam
Candidates who pass Round 1 at the provincial cut-off take Round 2. Strong CSP-S results are used for provincial team selection toward NOI.
Preparation tips
Practise past Round 1 papers and Round 2 problems in your chosen programming language, and prepare for a time-limited machine-based test.
Can I skip Round 1?
No. You must take Round 1 of the same group and reach the provincial cut-off to enter Round 2.