British Informatics Olympiad (BIO)
A British programming olympiad where students solve challenging algorithmic problems under timed conditions. Open to full-time pre-university students under 19 in mainland Britain through their school or college. Rated Expert Level, with difficulty mainly coming from advanced algorithms, coding efficiency, complex problem-solving and highly selective progression to the national final.
Verified information
Competition details can change. Always confirm dates, eligibility and entry requirements on the official organiser's website.
Official website ↗OVERALL COMPETITION LEVEL
Expert Level
6 evaluation dimensions have source-backed automatic scores; 0 dimensions need conflict review.
Competition overview
Key information
Eligible ages
12–19
School level
Secondary and sixth form; under 19 in full-time pre-university education
Registration method
School Only
Competition stages
Round one in schools, then invitational final in Cambridge
Fee
Free
Online / in-person
Hybrid
Dates
Competition timeline
Registration opens
Not yet announced by the organiser
Registration closes
23 Jan 2026
Competition starts
12 Apr 2026
Competition ends
14 Apr 2026
Preparation support
Recommended resources
Computing Problems from the BIO and Elsewhere
Open resource ↗Official archive of papers, mark schemes, solutions and sample programs.
Official · Free · Past-paper and solution archive · Essential
BIO 2026 Round One
Open resource ↗Current-format three-hour paper and mark scheme for a final timed mock.
Official · Free · Current paper and mark scheme · Essential
BIO Information Pack
Open resource ↗Orientation linking the latest sample paper, marking scheme and worked examples.
Official · Free · Preparation guide · Recommended
BIO Helper
Open resource ↗Online judge with round-one problems and model solutions from experienced competitors.
Third-party · Free · Online judge and editorials · Essential