The Southern Arizona Local Section of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is proud to host the 2026 U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) local competition. This annual event challenges high school students with a passion for chemistry to demonstrate their knowledge, connect with peers, and compete for national recognition.

Outstanding performers in the local section will have the honor of advancing to the National Chemistry Olympiad Exam and potentially representing the United States at the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO).

Key Details

  • Local Competition Dates: February 27 – March 16, 2026
  • Registration Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • National Exam Dates: April 10–19, 2026
  • Contact: Dr. Suchithranga M. D. C. Perera ([email protected])

2026 Important Dates

Schedule is subject to change. Any updates will be communicated to USNCO Coordinators and posted on the national USNCO website.

October 6, 2025 USNCO Student Registration Opens
January 31, 2026 Local Section Registration Closes
February 27 – March 16, 2026 Local Chemistry Olympiad Exams
April 10–19, 2026 National Chemistry Olympiad Exam
June 2026 (TBD) USNCO Study Camp
July 2026 (TBD) International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO)

Program Overview

The U.S. National Chemistry Olympiad (USNCO) is a multi-tiered chemistry competition organized annually by the American Chemical Society for high school students. Since 1984, the program has inspired young chemists to achieve excellence through four progressive stages:

  • Local Chemistry Olympiad Exams (March): Students participate in local ACS section exams. Top scorers qualify for the national level.
  • National Chemistry Olympiad Exam (April): Roughly 1,000 students nationwide take this rigorous three-part exam, often hosted by local sections and universities.
  • Study Camp (June): The top 20 national scorers attend a two-week residential training camp in preparation for international competition.
  • International Chemistry Olympiad (July): Four U.S. finalists represent the nation at the global competition, joined by mentors and peers from over 80 countries.

For complete national updates, visit the ACS USNCO Official Website »

Who Can Participate

Participation in the USNCO is open to high school students who:

  • Are U.S. citizens or permanent residents (green card holders).
  • Are under 20 years old on July 1, 2026.
  • Have not completed a college-level general chemistry course before the Olympiad year.

© 2026 American Chemical Society – Southern Arizona Local Section