Physics Bowl
A high school physics contest from the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT): 40 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes.
About Physics Bowl
Physics Bowl (PhysicsBowl) is an international high school physics contest run by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT). Each year students across North America, Asia and the Middle East sit the same paper at their own schools, making it a widely taken physics contest for high school students.
Who Should Take It
- Division I — students in their first year of high school physics.
- Division II — students in their second year of physics (for example AP Physics, IB HL or A-Level students).
Students who enjoy physics, are preparing for AP/IB/A-Level physics, or want a recognised result for university applications will find it a good fit.
Contest Format
- 40 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes
- Questions cover topics typically taught in a high school physics course: mechanics, energy, waves, electricity and magnetism, and more
- Written under supervision at the school
Awards
Students are ranked against other schools in the same region. Top individual scores and school teams (the sum of a school's top five scores) receive AAPT recognition.
Why Take It
- A short, focused contest that checks understanding of core physics concepts
- Good preparation for AP Physics, IB Physics and SAT/ACT-style science reasoning
- A widely recognised contest result to include in university applications
Contest Arrangements & Registration
JA Contest Arrangements · 2026–2027
- Contest date: to be confirmed by the school (AAPT's annual contest window is usually in spring)
- Time: 3:30–4:15 PM (45 minutes; 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 once the school confirms the contest date. To register your interest now, email [email protected] with the student's name, grade and whether they are in Division I or Division II.