USACO（USA Computing Olympiad）
USACO Competition Training Program
USA Computing Olympiad (USACO) is the most prestigious high school computer science competition in the United States—and one of the most respected programming challenges worldwide. With a four-tier advancement system (Bronze → Silver → Gold → Platinum), USACO is a critical springboard for students aiming to study Computer Science at elite universities.
Many students who earn Gold or Platinum honors in USACO have gone on to be admitted to MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon, Berkeley, and other top-tier institutions.
At Ascend Advance Academy, we offer a comprehensive course pathway—from absolute beginner to advanced algorithmic programming—designed to help students build strong fundamentals, master advanced concepts, and gain real-world competitive programming experience.
What Is USACO?
USACO hosts four online contests each academic year (December, January, February, and the March US Open). Each contest features three algorithmic problems, scored out of 1000 points, and automatically graded.
Students are promoted to higher levels based on their contest performance:
Bronze → Silver → Gold → Platinum
USACO Learning Pathway
Competitive programming combines two core disciplines:
Algorithm Design – problem-solving, abstract thinking, and mathematical modeling
Algorithm Implementation – efficient and accurate coding using a programming language
Stage 1: Programming Foundations (Java / AP Computer Science A)
Goal: Build a solid foundation in Java programming—suitable for students planning to take AP Computer Science A or preparing for USACO Bronze level.
Ideal For:
Students in Grade 6 and above
Students with no prior programming experience
Math level: Pre-Algebra or higher
Our curriculum is based on the College Board’s official AP Computer Science A standards, and introduces Java syntax, program structure, and foundational algorithms. It also prepares students for college-level CS and national competitions like USACO and NOI.
Java Programming Courses:
CS J1 – Introduction to Java Programming (Part 1)
CS J2 – Java Programming Foundations (Part 2)
CS J3 – Advanced Java Concepts & AP Project Training
Stage 2: Competitive Programming (USACO Bronze Level)
Goal: Equip students with essential problem-solving and coding skills to advance to USACO Silver.
Ideal For:
Students who have basic programming experience and aim to participate in USACO, NOI, or similar informatics competitions
Students ready to focus on algorithmic thinking, problem modeling, and code efficiency
Competitive Programming Courses:
CP 001 – Algorithm Foundations: Sorting, Simulation, Binary Search, etc.
CP 002 – USACO Bronze Topic Training & Problem Solving
Related Math Competition Level: AMC 8
Advancement Target: USACO Silver
Instructor: Mr. Ma
Master’s in Computer Science
Proficient in Java, C++, and Python
Over a decade of hands-on experience in software development, trading systems, and risk modeling
Worked with leading institutions such as Columbia University, IBM T.J. Watson Research Center, and top Wall Street firms (Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Bank of America, UBS)
A passionate STEM educator with years of experience teaching science, engineering, and math competitions to elementary and middle school students
Why Choose Our USACO Program?
✅ Structured, level-based progression from beginner to competitive coding
✅ Small-group instruction with real-time feedback and problem-solving sessions
✅ Hands-on coding projects and auto-graded practice aligned with USACO format
✅ Instructor with elite academic and industry credentials
✅ Gateway to top STEM tracks, advanced CS courses, and standout college applications