1st round
Everything starts in Mid-August. The first round is open until the end of September. The test takes 40 minutes and can be done online or on paper. Students can participate individually or take the test in class. No preparation is necessary of the first round. Basic knowledge of physics and interest in physics are the only prerequisites to participate. Registration
Camp
Students who qualified for the second round will be invited to a physics camp. Participation is completely free. The 60 spots are distributed on a first come first served basis. In addition to the lectures and exercise sessions, there will be a field trip, game nights and a career night with insights from the careers of past participants. Video.
2nd round
Mid-January the participants meet in Berne, Lausanne, and Zurich. The second round consists of two theoretical examinations. Afterwards students get a guided tour of the research facilities in the local university. Around 28 students make it to the final round.
Training EPFL
The finalists meet in Mid-February at ETH Lausanne (EPFL) for three days of experimental training. The highlight of the camp is the legendary fondue on Saturday evening.
Final
On one weekend in March the Neue Kantonsschule Aarau is taken over by the physics Olympiad. The final round spans two days and consists of three exams. Both experimental and theoretical problems are tested. The most successful participants win gold, silver and bronze medals and secure their spot on the teams representing Switzerland internationally.
Experimental training
Both teams representing Switzerland at international competitions will start preparing in April. They will meet with instructors and practice with experiments from past competitions.
EuPhO
The European Physics Olympiad (EuPhO) is a great learning experience for our younger participants. Spots on the team are given to the five best medalists who are eligible to participate in the following year. EuPhO exams are challenging. The problems are open-ended questions and demand creative solutions.
Theoretical training
Before heading off to the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO), the IPhO team meets in a chalet in Wallis. Time for the final training with the team leaders – and a delicious raclette.
IPhO
In July the team travels to the International Physics Olympiad (IPhO). They compete with peers from over 80 countries. Their reward? Possibly another medal. They will also be able to discover a new country and meet lots of people from around the world.
Science Olympiad Day
Finalists from all ten branches of the science Olympiad meet to celebrate the achievements of the past year. More information