NZIBO fosters interest, participation, and excellence in biology through participation of secondary school students in the New Zealand Biology Olympiad Programme. Annually over 400 secondary school students from throughout New Zealand participate in this programme.

 

Aims of the NZIBO programme:

• To enhance the educational opportunities for students of Biology in New Zealand, fostering academic excellence in Biology.
• To develop awareness of current biological research in New Zealand amongst students and teachers.
• To foster relationships between tertiary educators, employers, and talented young biologists, increasing the number of students who see biology as a vibrant and rewarding career pathway.

 

Benefits of Participation

Participation in the NZIBO programme develops a greater understanding of biology and will assist students with their school examinations, NZQA scholarship examinations and university biology studies. It is recognized by universities in New Zealand and overseas as a sign of academic excellence. NZIBO alumni hold a wide variety of scholarships at universities in New Zealand and across the globe.

Awarding of prizes

All students receive a Participation Certificate. Students who participate in the tutorial programme receive a Bronze Certificate. Students who attend the Practical Training and Selection Camp receive a Silver Certificate and those representing NZ at the IBO receive a Gold Certificate. The student with the highest ranking at the IBO receives a Platinum Certificate.

Financial support

Significant sponsorship is provided by various tertiary institutions and commercial sponsors. Registration for the National Entrance exam costs $40 but is subsidised for students from schools who have not had students register before and can be waived for Māori and Pasifika students. Student participation fees are $125 (tbc) to participate in the online Tutorial Programme and an $900 fee (tbc) to attend the Practical Training and Selection Camp. Many schools and community groups financially support students to participate and NZIBO scholarships may also be available.