NSO vs ISO: the same olympiad, and a second ISO
SOF's National Science Olympiad (NSO) is now called the International Science Olympiad (ISO). It is the same exam from the same organiser. Indian Talent also runs a science olympiad called ISO, and that one is a different exam.
Two ISOs, and a third with a similar name
| ISO (formerly NSO) | Indian Talent ISO | |
|---|---|---|
| Organiser | SOF | Indian Talent |
| Who registers | Through the school only; if your school doesn't run it, it can sign up free | Paper exam through the school (40 or more students); online exam, you register yourself |
| Where | On paper, in your child's school | On paper in school, or online from home (8 AM to 8 PM slot) |
| Fee | ₹170 per olympiad; the school may add up to ₹30 | ₹175 on paper; ₹500 online, plus ₹500 for Round 2 |
| 2026-27 dates | 30 Oct (held), 19 Nov, 3 Dec 2026 | School: 9 Oct (held), 2 Dec, 18 Dec 2026; Online: 4 Dec 2026, 8 Jan 2027 |
SilverZone's science olympiad has another similar name: the International Olympiad of Science (iOS). iOS guide.
SOF ISO (formerly NSO) guide · Indian Talent ISO guide · every science olympiad
Is NSO the same as ISO?
Yes, for SOF: the National Science Olympiad is now the International Science Olympiad, with the same organiser and registration through the school.
My child's school says "ISO". Which one is it?
Look at the organiser on the form or the fee: SOF's ISO costs ₹170 and goes through the school; Indian Talent's ISO costs ₹175 on paper or ₹500 online.
SOF vs SilverZone