Benefit #1: You Can Get Advanced Scientific Knowledge

Team members often use college-level textbooks and other learning materials in order to become experts on the subjects their events cover. Gaining such advanced knowledge in a particular area of science can give you a huge head start if you plan on studying that subject in college.

Benefit #2: You Can Gain Research and Writing Skills

Almost every event requires some research, and the study events especially will give you great practice in researching scientific topics. Some of the events that require the most writing include Write It Do It and Experimental Design. Even if you don’t end up studying science in college, research and writing skills are two of the most important skills you can have if you want to do well in school.

Benefit #3: It's Impressive to Include on Your College Applications

Colleges like to see applicants with extracurricular activities, and Science Olympiad can be a great one to include. If you’re planning on majoring in science, this will be an even bigger bonus because participating in Science Olympiad will show schools that you’re interested enough in science to want to learn more about it outside of class. Colleges want to admit students who are passionate about the subjects they plan on studying and majoring in. There are many opportunities for awards at each competition level, and receiving an award further shows colleges that you’re knowledgeable about science and can apply yourself in your extracurriculars.

Benefit #4: There's a Chance to Win Scholarships

These scholarships are often specifically for the school that is hosting the event (so if the National competition is at the University of Illinois, the scholarship will often only be usable if you attend the University of Illinois); however, some can be used at any college or university. Especially in Division C, these scholarships can be very generous. At many National competitions, the hosting school will offer students who place first in one of their events a sizable scholarship, and some even offer free tuition for all four years. This can save you tens of thousands of dollars and reduce your college costs dramatically.