British Biology Olympiad (BBO)
The British Biology Olympiad from UK Biology Competitions, for senior biology students. JA hosts an on-site sitting.
About the British Biology Olympiad
The British Biology Olympiad (BBO) is the senior biology competition run by UK Biology Competitions (UKBC), a UK charity whose papers are written by a team of volunteer biologists and educators. It challenges students to go beyond the syllabus and apply biology to unfamiliar problems, and is taken by students in the UK and at international schools worldwide.
Who Should Take It
BBO is designed for students in their final years of secondary school — roughly Grades 11–12 (ages 16–18). Strong younger students are also welcome. It suits students taking AP Biology, IB Biology or A-Level Biology, and anyone considering medicine, life sciences or biochemistry.
Contest Format
- Two 45-minute multiple-choice papers, taken online
- Written at JA under teacher supervision
- Both papers must be completed to be considered for an award
Awards
Every participant receives an e-certificate. Awards are given at Gold, Silver, Bronze, Highly Commended and Commended levels, with participation certificates for all other students.
Why Take It
- A well-established biology olympiad taken by students around the world
- Stretches students beyond the classroom syllabus
- A strong addition to applications for medicine and life sciences programmes
Contest Arrangements & Registration
JA Contest Arrangements · 2026–2027
The official 2027 contest window is January 15–25, 2027. JA hosts an on-site sitting within that window.
- Contest date: January 22, 2027
- Time: 3:30–5:00 PM (1.5 hours for both papers; time may be adjusted)
- Venue: Johnathan Academy (on site)
- JA registration deadline: to be confirmed
- School fee: CAD $50
How to Register
Online registration will open soon. To register your interest now, email [email protected] with the student's name and grade.