Banner 0
Banner 1
Banner 2
Banner 3
Banner 4
Banner 5
Banner 6
Banner 7
Banner 8
Banner 9
Banner 10
AI Mentor
Book Online Demo
Try Test

ISSO Olympiad Exam

By Swati Singh

|

Updated on 2 Feb 2026, 11:26 IST

The ISSO full form is International Space Science OlympiadISSO Olympiad is a prestigious competition that challenges students worldwide in the field of space science. Participants showcase their knowledge and skills in various aspects of astronomy, astrophysics, and space exploration, fostering a passion for space sciences among young minds.

International Social Studies Olympiad Overview

The International Social Studies Olympiad (ISSO) is an annual exam organized by the science olympiad foundation (SOF) to promote students' competitive aptitude in social sciences. It aims to enhance critical thinking, problem-solving, and metacognition skills, The ISSO olympiad aims to foster a deeper understanding of astronomy, astrophysics, and space exploration among young minds, encouraging them to pursue careers in these dynamic and ever-evolving disciplines. The ISSO awards medals, certificates, and scholarships to recognize outstanding performance at school, zonal, and international levels.

Fill out the form for expert academic guidance
+91
Student
Parent / Guardian
Teacher
submit

International Social Studies Olympiad Overview

Feature

Unlock the full solution & master the concept
Get a detailed solution and exclusive access to our masterclass to ensure you never miss a concept

Details

Name of the Exam

Ready to Test Your Skills?
Check Your Performance Today with our Free Mock Tests used by Toppers!
Take Free Test

ISSO

Full Form

cta3 image
create your own test
YOUR TOPIC, YOUR DIFFICULTY, YOUR PACE
start learning for free

International Social Studies Olympiad

Organizing Body

Best Courses for You

JEE

JEE

NEET

NEET

Foundation JEE

Foundation JEE

Foundation NEET

Foundation NEET

CBSE

CBSE

Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF)

Also Known As

Ready to Test Your Skills?
Check Your Performance Today with our Free Mock Tests used by Toppers!
Take Free Test

International Social Studies Olympiad (ISSO)

Mode of Reference

cta3 image
create your own test
YOUR TOPIC, YOUR DIFFICULTY, YOUR PACE
start learning for free

Online

Mode of Examination

OMR (Paper-based) or Computer-Based Test (CBT)

ISSO Olympiad Important Dates

OlympiadExam TypeKey Dates
SOF International Social Studies Olympiad (ISSO)Level-1 Social Studies Exam18 Sep 2025, 20 Nov 2025, 23 Jan 2026 
Indian Space Science Olympiad (ISSO)Final Level Workshop & Exam27–29 Dec 2025

ISSO Olympiad Registration and Fees

OlympiadRegistration MethodFeesDeadline / Notes
SOF International Social Studies Olympiad (ISSO)Register only through your school (schools submit forms to SOF)₹125 per student (India, Bangladesh, Bhutan & Nepal) / USD 11 per student (other countries)Schools need to submit forms ahead of exam dates (usually ~15+ days before each Level‑1 date)
Indian Space Science Olympiad (ISSO)Register online via the official ISSO websiteFinal Level 3‑day Workshop + Exam Fee: ₹10,000 (excludes optional lunch/snacks)Final Level registration closes ~08 October 2025 or earlier if slots fill

Benefits of Registration

By registering for the ISSO Olympiad, participants gain access to:

  • Comprehensive study materials and preparation resources.
  • Online practice tests and mock exams.
  • Participation certificates for all registered students.
  • Exclusive webinars and workshops with experts in space science.

How to Apply for ISSO?

To take part in the International Social Studies Olympiad (ISSO) students must go through a simple application process. The registration is usually done through schools. Here are the steps:

Registration of Students

  • Schools can register as exam centers for SOF ISSO Level 1 at no extra cost.

  • Registered schools receive a prospectus with forms from SOF.

  • Non-registered schools can request the prospectus through email or phone.

  • The school must fill out the forms and send them to SOF before the deadline.

  • Roll Numbers

    • The school coordinating teacher fills the School Registration Form (SRF) and Students’ Registration Sheet (SRS).

  • These are sent to SOF to generate roll numbers for each student.

  • Registration Fee

    • Students from India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh must pay ₹125 per student (including GST).

  • Schools may charge an extra ₹25 per student to cover exam-related costs.

  • Fee exemption is given to:

    • Students with physical disabilities

  • Students whose parents were martyred in defense operations

  • SFO ISSO Exam Pattern

    ClassTopic / SectionNo. of QuestionsMarks per QuestionTotal Marks
    3rd & 4thSocial Studies30130
    Achievers Section5210
    GRAND TOTAL3540
    5thSocial Studies45145
    Achievers Section5315
    GRAND TOTAL5060
    6th to 8thHistory20120
    Geography15115
    Social and Political Life10110
    Achievers Section5315
    GRAND TOTAL5060
    9th & 10thHistory15115
    Geography10110
    Political Science10110
    Economics10110
    Achievers Section5315
    GRAND TOTAL5060

    ISSO Olympiad Exam Syllabus

    Class 3

    • Total Questions: 35
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1:

    • Basic Needs
    • Festivals and Celebrations
    • People Who Help Us
    • Solar System and Our Earth
    • Our Environment
    • India – Our Motherland
    • India – Our Heritage
    • Our Ancestors – Early Life and Civilization
    • Connecting People

    Section 2:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Section 1

    Class 4

    • Total Questions: 35
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1:

    • Our Country – Physical and Political Divisions
    • India – Resources and Climate
    • Our Rich Heritage
    • People Who Made a Difference
    • Our Constitution and Government
    • Our History
    • Earth and Environment
    • Transport and Communication

    Section 2:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Section 1

    Class 5

    • Total Questions: 50
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1:

    • Our Earth
    • Our Environment
    • Weather and Climate
    • Our Country
    • Our Freedom Struggle
    • Great Achievers
    • The United Nations
    • Inventions and Discoveries
    • Agriculture and Industries
    • Transport and Communication
    • Evolution of Mankind

    Section 2:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Section 1

    Class 6

    • Total Questions: 50
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1: History

    • Studying the Past
    • The Early Humans
    • The First Cities and the Vedic Age
    • The Early Kingdoms and New Ideas
    • The First Empire – The Maurya
    • Life in Towns and Villages
    • The Post-Mauryan Period
    • New Empires and Kingdoms
    • Culture and Science

    Section 2: Geography

    • Planet Earth
    • Major Domains and Landforms
    • Globes and Maps
    • India – Physical and Political Divisions
    • Climate, Vegetation, and Wildlife

    Section 3: Social and Political Life

    • Diversity and Discrimination
    • Government and Key Elements of a Democratic Government
    • Local Government and Administration
    • Livelihoods – Rural and Urban

    Section 4:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Sections 1, 2, and 3

    Class 7

    • Total Questions: 50
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1: History

    • Sources of Medieval Indian History
    • New Kings and Kingdoms
    • The Delhi Sultans and The Mughal Empire
    • Rulers and Buildings
    • Towns, Traders, and Craftspersons
    • Mobile and Settled Communities
    • Bhakti Movement
    • Sufism and Regional Cultures
    • New Political Formations in the Eighteenth Century

    Section 2: Geography

    • Earth and Our Environment
    • Air and Water
    • Natural Vegetation and Wildlife
    • Human Environment – Settlements, Transport, and Communication
    • Human-Environment Interaction (Life in the Tropical and Sub-tropical Regions, Deserts, and Temperate Grasslands)

    Section 3: Social and Political Life

    • Democracy and Equality
    • State Government
    • Unpacking Gender
    • Understanding Media
    • Markets Around Us

    Section 4:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Sections 1, 2, and 3

    Class 8

    • Total Questions: 50
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1: History

    • Modern India – Sources and Significance
    • The Establishment of Company Power
    • Rural Life and Tribal Societies
    • Crafts and Industries
    • The Revolt of 1857-58
    • Education and British Rule
    • Women, Caste, and Reform
    • Colonialism and Urban Change
    • Changes in the Arts: Painting, Literature, Architecture
    • Freedom Struggle in India
    • India After Independence

    Section 2: Geography

    • Land, Soil, Water, Natural Vegetation, and Wildlife Resources
    • Mineral, Power, and Human Resources
    • Agriculture and Industries

    Section 3: Social and Political Life

    • The Indian Constitution and Secularism
    • Parliamentary Government and The Judiciary
    • Social Justice and The Marginalized
    • Economic Presence of the Government

    Section 4:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Sections 1, 2, and 3

    Class 9

    • Total Questions: 50
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1: History

    • The French Revolution
    • Socialism in Europe and the Russian Revolution
    • Nazism and the Rise of Hitler
    • Forest Society and Pastoralism in the Modern World

    Section 2: Geography

    • India – Physical Features and Climate
    • Drainage
    • Natural Vegetation and Wildlife
    • Population

    Section 3: Political Science

    • What Is Democracy? Why Democracy?
    • Constitutional Design and Democratic Rights
    • Elections and Working of Institutions

    Section 4: Economics

    • The Story of Village Palampur
    • People as Resource
    • Poverty and Food Security in India

    Section 5:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4

    Class 10

    • Total Questions: 50
    • Time: 1 hour

    Section 1: History

    • Nationalism in Europe and India
    • Globalization and Industrialization
    • Print Culture and the Modern World

    Section 2: Geography

    • Resources and Development
    • Forest, Wildlife, and Water Resources
    • Agriculture and Industries
    • Minerals and Energy Resources
    • Life Lines of National Economy

    Section 3: Political Science

    • Power Sharing and Federalism
    • Democracy – Gender, Religion, and Caste
    • Popular Struggles and Movements
    • Political Parties
    • Outcomes and Challenges to Democracy

    Section 4: Economics

    • Development – Sectors of the Indian Economy
    • Money and Credit
    • Globalization and Consumer Rights

    Section 5:

    • Higher Order Thinking Questions based on Sections 1, 2, 3, and 4

    course

    No courses found

    FAQs on ISSO Olympiad Exam

    What is the ISSO Olympiad Exam?

    The ISSO (International Science Students Olympiad) is a prestigious international competition aimed at encouraging and recognizing talented students in the fields of science. The exam tests the participants' knowledge and problem-solving skills in various science subjects. It aims to promote scientific curiosity and foster global collaboration in science education.

    How can I register for the ISSO Olympiad?

    Registration for the ISSO Olympiad is typically done through your school or educational institution. Some countries may also offer individual registration through their official ISSO representative. Be sure to check the official ISSO website or your local science education authority for specific registration guidelines and deadlines.

    What subjects are covered in the ISSO Olympiad Exam?

    The ISSO Olympiad usually covers a variety of science subjects including Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Mathematics. Depending on the level and country, additional subjects such as Environmental Science or Computer Science may also be included.

    How is the ISSO Olympiad Exam structured?

    The ISSO Olympiad exam consists of multiple rounds, typically starting with regional or national levels and culminating in the international finals. The exam includes both theoretical and practical components, focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific knowledge. Each subject may have its own specific format, but it generally includes multiple-choice questions, short-answer questions, and experimental tasks.

    What is the eligibility criteria for the ISSO Olympiad Exam?

    Eligibility criteria for the ISSO Olympiad can vary slightly by country or region. However, participants are typically required to be secondary school students (or equivalent) within a specific age range, often between 14 and 18 years old. Be sure to check the official guidelines for age limits and other specific requirements.

    How can I prepare for the ISSO Olympiad Exam?

    To prepare for the ISSO Olympiad, you should focus on strengthening your understanding of the core scientific subjects, engage in regular practice problems, and conduct experiments where applicable. Reviewing past papers and textbooks, as well as seeking guidance from teachers or mentors, can also be very helpful. Consider joining a study group or participating in mock exams to simulate the test environment.

    What are the benefits of participating in the ISSO Olympiad?

    Participating in the ISSO Olympiad provides numerous benefits, such as enhancing your scientific knowledge, improving problem-solving skills, and gaining international recognition. It also opens up opportunities for scholarships, university admissions, and networking with like-minded students from around the world.

    Is there any online preparation available for the ISSO Olympiad Exam?

    Yes, many online resources are available for ISSO Olympiad preparation. These include online courses, video tutorials, practice exams, and forums where you can interact with other participants and mentors. Many websites also offer practice materials specific to ISSO subjects, as well as general science Olympiad preparation.

    What is the level of difficulty for the ISSO Olympiad Exam?

    The ISSO Olympiad is known for its challenging level of difficulty, designed to test participants' advanced knowledge and analytical abilities. The exam questions often require creative problem-solving and a deep understanding of scientific concepts. The difficulty level increases as you advance from regional to national and finally to international rounds.

    When does the ISSO Olympiad Exam take place each year?

    The ISSO Olympiad typically takes place annually. The exact dates may vary by country and region, but it is generally held in the spring or summer. Be sure to check your local ISSO representative or official website for the specific schedule.

    How can I improve my chances of winning in the ISSO Olympiad?

    To improve your chances of winning the ISSO Olympiad, consistent practice is key. Focus on mastering the fundamentals, solving past exam papers, and participating in mock exams. Also, try to stay updated with the latest developments in science and practice time management during the exam to maximize performance.

    What are the selection criteria for ISSO Olympiad winners?

    Winners of the ISSO Olympiad are selected based on their performance in both the theoretical and practical components of the exam. High scores in problem-solving tasks, experimental challenges, and overall scientific knowledge contribute to the final rankings. The winners typically receive gold, silver, and bronze medals, and may also be awarded scholarships or other honors.

    Are there any scholarships available for ISSO Olympiad participants?

    Yes, many universities and organizations offer scholarships to ISSO Olympiad participants, especially those who excel in the competition. These scholarships can help with tuition fees, research opportunities, and even travel costs for attending international events or further scientific studies.

    Can I participate in the ISSO Olympiad multiple times?

    Yes, you can participate in the ISSO Olympiad multiple times, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for each year. Many students participate in the Olympiad for several years, with each participation offering opportunities for improvement and learning.

    What are the prizes for winners of the ISSO Olympiad?

    The winners of the ISSO Olympiad receive prestigious awards, including medals (gold, silver, and bronze) and certificates of achievement. In addition to medals, winners may also receive scholarships, travel grants, and invitations to exclusive events. The top participants often gain recognition from academic institutions and the scientific community.