USA AI Olympiad (USAAIO)

overview

The USA AI Olympiad (USAAIO) organizes the USA–North America AI Olympiad (USA‑NA‑AIO), a prestigious competition for K–12 students across the U.S. and Canada. It serves as the official pathway to form Team USA, representing the U.S. in the International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (IOAI) and the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad (IAIO).

Exam Dates:

Round 1: 1/30/2026

Eligibility:

middle/high school 

Exam Length:

Three hours

Exam Format:

3 Problems (41 Parts Total)

USAAIO (USA AI Olympiad) | Competition Prep

Qualify Round 2

Only top-performing students from Round 1 qualify for Round 2. In 2025, 76 out of 393 participants advanced—about 19.3%. The cutoff score that year was 53 out of 300. While award levels (Honor Roll, High Honor Roll, Distinguished Honor Roll) recognize strong performance, they do not guarantee advancement. Round 2 invitations are based strictly on score rankings and may vary yearly depending on overall results.

R1 Topics Covered

Round 1 focuses on foundational AI knowledge, programming basics, and mathematical reasoning. It is designed to be accessible yet challenging for middle and high school students interested in artificial intelligence.

  • Markdown programming using Google Colab

  • Mathematical foundations essential for AI

  • Basic coding principles and problem-solving logic

  • Introduction to Machine Learning concepts

  • Deep Learning fundamentals with PyTorch

  • Overview of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) and how they work

R2 Topics Covered

Round 2 builds on all Round 1 concepts and introduces more advanced AI topics. This round is structured to challenge students capable of handling real-world deep learning and AI engineering problems.

  • Advanced Machine Learning techniques

  • Deep Learning architectures and model optimization

  • Using GPU acceleration in Google Colab

  • Applied problem-solving using AI for real-world datasets

  • Complex algorithmic reasoning under time constraints

Competition Rules

Competition Format & Structure

  • Round 1 is in-person at schools or test centers with screen and webcam monitoring.

  • Round 2 is hosted at MIT with strict in-person supervision.

  • All rounds are individual-based—no team submissions allowed.

Submission & Integrity Guidelines

  • Participants must submit code, output, and video recordings.

  • Use of AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Copilot is strictly forbidden.

  • Any sign of unauthorized help leads to disqualification.

Advancement & Team Selection

  • Top scorers from Round 1 qualify for Round 2 at MIT.

  • Best performers enter USAAIO Camp for advanced selection.

  • Up to 8 are selected for IOAI and 4 for IAIO as Team USA.

USAAIO Benefits

Direct Access to Elite Institutions

  • Round 2 and USAAIO Camp are held at MIT.

  • Students attend MIT admissions info sessions and interact with experts.

Pathway to Global Recognition

  • USAAIO is the only official qualifier for:

    • International Olympiad in AI (IOAI)

    • International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad (IAIO)

  • Team USA earns medals and global prestige.

Proven Outcomes for College Admissions

  • Past Team USA students admitted to:

    • MIT, Stanford, Caltech

  • 2025 team earned 7 international honors (3 Silver, 3 Bronze, 1 Honorable Mention).

  • Enhances personal statement, research readiness, and college interviews.

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