USA Cyber Olympiad (UCO)
The USA Cyber Olympiad (UCO) is an international competitive exam conducted online for students in Grades 1–12. There is only one level of the exam for all grades. UCO is an objective-type test that students need to complete in 60 minutes.
The exam consists of two sections:
Section-1: Computers and Information Technology
Section-2: Achievers Section (Higher-Order Thinking & Application-Based Questions)
Key Highlights of UCO
- Conducted for Grades: 1 to 12
- Mode of Examination: Online
- Mode of Registration: Individually or through schools
- Duration: 60 minutes
- Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- Levels of Examination: 1 Level (Online)
The USA Cyber Olympiad is recognized globally and tests not just students’ knowledge of cyber concepts but also the application of these concepts in real-world scenarios. It enables students to analyze their performance at state, national, and international levels.
Eligibility Criteria
To participate in the Level 1 USA Cyber Olympiad, the requirements are:
- Students studying in Grades 1–10 from anywhere in the world are eligible.
- Schools should be affiliated with recognized education boards or equivalent international boards.
Separate Class-Wise Exams
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 1
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 2
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 3
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 4
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 5
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 6
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 7
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 8
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 9
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 10
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 11
- USA Cyber Olympiad for Grade 12
Why Participate in UCO?
- Comprehensive Cyber Skills Testing – The exam covers basic to advanced cyber concepts, with difficulty increasing by grade level.
- Career Foundation – Ideal for students aiming for careers in computer science, cybersecurity, software engineering, or IT.
- Recognition & Awards – Top performers receive medals, trophies, certificates, and recognition at state, national, and global levels.
- Skill Development – Enhances analytical reasoning, logical thinking, problem-solving, and digital literacy skills.
Registration Process
Through Schools:
- Registered schools receive the UCO prospectus and registration forms.
- Schools must submit completed registration forms by the given deadline.
Individual Registration:
- Students whose schools are not participating can register individually via the UCO official website.
Syllabus & Exam Pattern
The USA Cyber Olympiad syllabus is divided into two sections for all classes, with content tailored according to grade level.
- Section-1: Fundamentals of Computers, Hardware & Software, Internet, Cybersecurity, Reasoning, and Emerging Technologies.
- Section-2: Higher-order thinking and application-based questions.
Marking Scheme:
- Grades 1–4: 45 marks
- Grades 5–10: 60 marks
Exam Dates & Fees
UCO 2025–26 Exam Dates:
- Practice Test Dates: December 9 & December 11, 2025
- Level 1 Exam Dates: January 13 & January 22, 2026
- Last Date for Registration: Recommended before December 2025
- Result Announcement: Within one month after answer key release
Fee:
- Within USA: USD $100 per subject
- Outside USA: Fee is country-specific
Preparation Tips
To excel in UCO:
- Review the official syllabus thoroughly.
- Prepare topic-wise notes and revise regularly.
- Practice sample papers and mock tests to improve speed and accuracy.
- Focus on conceptual clarity rather than rote learning.
Awards & Recognition
Top 50% performers receive Merit Certificates, Medals, Trophies, and Digital Achievement Certificates.
All participants receive Digital Participation Certificates.
FAQs
1. How many levels does UCO have?
Only 1 level conducted online.
2. Can students participate in multiple Olympiads?
Yes. Students may register for any number of Olympiad subjects separately.
3. How are admit cards issued?
After registration, students can download their admit card from the official UCO dashboard.
4. What is the benefit of participating?
UCO provides early exposure to competitive exams, improves cyber skills, boosts confidence, and strengthens students’ academic profiles.