Secondary-school students interested in science have until the end of August 2026 to apply for the sixth edition of the Paraguayan Biology Olympiad (OPB). The competition offers students from schools across Paraguay an opportunity to test their knowledge of biology and develop scientific skills beyond the classroom. The Biology Olympiad also provides a potential pathway towards international biology competitions.
Who can participate?
The 2026 competition is open to students in the first, second or third year of secondary education at schools in Paraguay. Both Paraguayan and foreign students studying in the country can participate. The competition is divided into two levels. Level I is aimed at students in their first and second years, while Level II is designed for second- and third-year students. Those in their second year can choose between the two levels.
Registration costs ₲25,000 (approximately US$4) per student. Participants must complete the online registration process and provide the required identification and proof of payment. The organisers have announced that this is the final week to register, making 31 August the deadline for students who want to take part. Registration information and the application form are available through the OPB’s official social media.
How does the competition work?
The Olympiad goes beyond a conventional school quiz. Its syllabus covers subjects ranging from the foundations of biology and evolution to ecology, microbiology, cell biology and physiology. Students will have access to study materials through Google Classroom, while the organisers are also offering optional online preparation sessions. The first stage consists of a virtual examination with 30 multiple-choice questions.
Students must answer at least 18 questions correctly to qualify for the next stage. The competition will then continue with a face-to-face final examination, where participants will answer 35 multiple-choice questions. The highest-performing students will receive gold, silver and bronze medals, alongside honourable mentions for other strong performances.
International reach
The competition also has an international dimension. The top students can enter the selection process for Paraguay’s delegation to the Ibero-American Biology Olympiad (OIAB). This pathway is already sending Paraguayan students abroad. Four students selected through the previous national Olympiad will represent Paraguay at the 19th Ibero-American Biology Olympiad in São Paulo from 30 August to 4 September 2026.
The sixth edition therefore offers more than an academic challenge. For students passionate about biology, it can provide an opportunity to meet other young scientists, strengthen their knowledge and potentially compete for Paraguay on an international stage.
Also read: Freshwater Jellyfish Recorded In Paraguay For The First Time.
