British Biology Olympiad Essentials for Aspiring Contestants

Updated: 19.05.2025

Read time: 3 min read

What Is the British Biology Olympiad?

Final-year pre-university students test their advanced biological knowledge through challenging online exams; they register via their schools, complete the tests, and top scorers earn medals and may qualify for further rounds or international competitions.

Students also get the opportunity to compete in the International Biology Olympiad.

Where Is the Biology Olympiad Held?

The Biology Olympiad is an online competition open to students worldwide, though primarily aimed at UK schools. Students take the exam online under supervised conditions at their schools.

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About the British Biology Olympiad: Fostering Passion for Biology and Scientific Excellence

The British Biology Olympiad (BBO) is organized by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), a professional body that represents biological scientists in the UK. Founded in 2009, the competition aims to inspire secondary school students to develop a deep interest in biology and to recognize outstanding talent in the field. The RSB is dedicated to supporting biology education, advancing research, and promoting public understanding of the life sciences.

The BBO is managed by the RSB’s Education and Outreach team, which works closely with schools, universities, and educators to deliver an engaging and challenging program. Open to students in the UK and around the world, the competition tests participants’ knowledge of biology through a series of demanding written exams that cover topics in molecular biology, ecology, genetics, and more. The competition is designed not only to reward academic excellence but also to encourage students to think critically and creatively about biological concepts.

Since its inception, the British Biology Olympiad has become one of the most prestigious biology competitions in the UK, serving as a stepping stone for students interested in pursuing careers in biology and related fields. Top scorers are invited to represent the UK in the International Biology Olympiad (IBO), further elevating the competition’s international stature. Through the BBO, the Royal Society of Biology continues to inspire the next generation of biologists and foster a deeper appreciation for the life sciences.

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Key Details

Subjects: Advanced biology

How to Enter: Register through your school and take the online exam.

Age Range: Final-year pre-university students (typically ages 16–18)

Competition Format: Two online, one-hour multiple-choice papers covering advanced biology topics.

Recognition: Gold, silver, bronze, and highly commended certificates; potential selection for international olympiads.

Sample Question: Which structure is found in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells? (A) Mitochondria (B) Ribosomes (C) Nucleus (D) Lysosome.

Our Tips for Succeeding in the British Biology Olympiad

Study the full A-level biology syllabus and go beyond by reading scientific journals and articles. Practice with past Olympiad papers and time yourself to improve speed and accuracy. Discuss complex topics with teachers or in study groups, and focus on both breadth and depth of knowledge. Review your mistakes to avoid repeating them in the actual competition.