Koala Science Olympiad (KSO)
Proudly Australian | Open to the World - Inquiry, Observation, Interpretation
Australian Inquiry-based Science Competition
Objectives
This competition adopts the core philosophy of Australian Science education—Inquiry-based Learning—with the aim of moving beyond traditional rote‑memorization assessment models. Through real‑life and intellectually challenging questions, the competition stimulates students’ curiosity about natural science and develops their skills in observation, logical reasoning, experimental design, and data analysis, allowing them to experience thinking like a scientist.
Organizer
Koala Excellence Olympiad (KEO)
Eligibility and Categories
The competition is divided into six levels according to grade, and is open to students from primary to secondary school:
| Level | Eligible Grades | Focus |
|---|---|---|
KEO A |
Grade 1 – 2 |
Everyday observation and basic knowledge |
KEO B |
Grade 3 – 4 |
Natural phenomena and simple classification |
KEO C |
Grade 5 – 6 |
Experimental procedures and fair testing |
KEO D |
Grade 7 – 8 |
Logical reasoning and control of variables |
KEO E |
Grade 9 – 10 |
Data interpretation and scientific principles |
KEO F |
Grade 11 – 12 |
Integrated analysis and critical thinking |
Competition Format
The competition consists of 25 multiple‑choice questions (MCQs).
The questions are concisely designed to emphasize ,thinking processes rather than memorization.
● Number of questions: 25
● Time limit: 45 minutes
● Mode: Paper or/and Online based competition
● Total score: 100 points
Scoring Structure
4 points per question, No marks will be deducted for incorrect or blank answers.
Syllabus Scope
- Questions cover four major science domains with an emphasis on interdisciplinary application:
● Biology & Environment:
- Life cycles, ecosystems, human body systems
● Matter & Chemistry:
- Properties of materials, changes of state, chemical reactions
● Physics & Energy:
- Forces and motion, light and sound, electrical circuits, energy transformation
● Earth & Space:
- Weather phenomena, rock cycle, solar system
Awards
To encourage students to take on challenges, the competition offers both individual awards and school awards.
Preliminary (National) Round Awards
| Award Title | Requirement | Prize / Recognition | Qualifies for Final Round |
|---|---|---|---|
Perfect Score Award |
The highest score |
Certificate + AUS$200 Bonus Prize |
Yes |
Gold Award |
Score ≥ 85 |
Certificate of Excellence |
Yes |
Silver Award |
Score ≥ 75 |
Certificate of High Distinction (Silver) |
Yes |
Bronze Award |
Score ≥ 65 |
Certificate of Distinction (Bronze) |
Yes |
Honorable Mention |
Score ≥ 55 |
Certificate of Honorable Mention |
Yes |
Certificate of Participation |
All other participants |
Digital Certificate of Participation |
No |
International Final Round Awards
| Award Title | Requirement |
|---|---|
Golden Koala Champion |
Rank #1 in the Final Round |
2nd Place Winner |
Rank #2 in the Final Round |
3rd Place Winner |
Rank #3 in the Final Round |
Perfect Score Bonus |
Score of 100/100 |
Gold Award |
Score ≥ 90 |
Silver Award |
Score ≥ 80 |
Bronze Award |
Score ≥ 70 |
National Finalist |
All other finalists |
School Awards
Outstanding Science Promotion Award:
- Awarded to schools that nominate 20 or more students
Best School Award:
- Based on the combined scores of the top 5 students from each school; Champion, First Runner‑up, and Second Runner‑up will be awarded in each level
Registration Details
- Registration Opens: Now
- Submission Deadline: May 2026
(Partner may select any convenient time slot within this period)
How to Register and Participate
As a partner, you can register students as a school or a group.
- For paper-based/ online participation, your school or organization should contact the KEO organizing committee directly to arrange for the secure delivery of test materials and supervision guidelines.
- Registration fees and detailed deadlines are opened for discussion.
Rules and Regulations
- The use of calculators (except for Levels E and F), reference materials, or internet searches is strictly prohibited during the competition.
- The system is equipped with anti‑cheating mechanisms. Any irregular activity may result in disqualification.
- The organizer reserves the right of final interpretation of the competition rules and results.
International (Final) Round in Macau (Near Hong Kong)
Contact and Support
Koala Excellence Olympiad
- Email: keo@koalaolympiad.com
- Australian Phone: +61 415 257 812
- Website: https://koalaolympiad.com/
- Australia Address: 459 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, Sydney, NSW 2010
- Facebook: The Koala English Olympiad – KEO (https://www.facebook.com/share/1GfzNfus8n/?mibextid=wwXIfr)
- Instagram: koala_english_olympiad_keo
- Another contact with Hong Kong representative: +852 63327108
The Koala English Olympiad (KEO) Team
