The International Social Studies Olympiad (ISSO), conducted by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), is a prestigious general knowledge competitive exam that aims to test the knowledge and understanding of students from Classes 3 to 10. The ISSO is a single-level exam, that offers students the opportunity to showcase their social studies aptitude on a global platform. The SOF ISSO offers a comprehensive examination process, which consists of multiple-choice questions designed to test students’ history, geography, political science, and economics. In this article, we will provide you with a detailed overview of the SOF ISSO exam registration process.
SOF ISSO Registration/Application Process
The registration/application process for the SOF ISSO exam is conducted offline for class 3 – class 10. Students cannot register individually for the SOF ISSO Olympiad; they have to register through their respective schools as SOF only takes applications via the registered schools.
Any school can register as a centre for the SOF ISSO Level 1 without having to pay any registration fee. All registered schools receive a prospectus containing the registration forms. Schools that are not yet registered can request the prospectus by contacting the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) via email at info@sofworld.org or by calling 0124-4951200. Schools need to fill in the registration forms accurately and completely. These forms should be returned to SOF by the specified due date. By following this process, schools can ensure their participation in the SOF ISSO and provide their students with the opportunity to showcase their social studies aptitude and compete at various levels.
Also Check – ISSO Eligibility Criteria
The school’s coordinating teacher plays a crucial role in the registration process by filling out the School Registration Form (SRF) and Students’ Registration Sheet (SRS) according to the provided guidelines. Once completed, these forms are then submitted to the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) before the specified submission deadline. Upon receiving the SRF and SRS, SOF proceeds to generate roll numbers for all the students who have been registered. The roll numbers are generated based on the information provided in the Students’ Registration Sheet (SRS). This systematic approach ensures that each registered student receives a unique identification number, facilitating their participation in the SOF ISSO examination.
ISSO Registration Fee for 2025-26 Session
Schools in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal are required to pay a registration fee of Rs 125 per student, including GST, for participating in the Science Olympiad Foundation’s International Social Studies Olympiad (SOF ISSO).
| ISSO Registration Fee | |
| India | INR 125 |
| Bangladesh | INR 125 |
| Bhutan | INR 125 |
| Nepal | INR 125 |
| Other countries | USD 9 |
Along with this fee, schools may charge additional fees to cover expenses such as in-charge honorarium, teacher remuneration, and other related expenses. It is important to note that students with major physical disabilities and Indian students whose parents were martyred during defence operations are exempt from paying the registration fee.
For schools located in countries other than India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Nepal, the registration fee is $9 per student. In addition to this fee, an extra charge of $1 per student may be levied to cover any associated expenses.
These registration fees contribute towards the overall cost of conducting the SOF ISSO and ensure the smooth organization of the Olympiad at various levels.
Preparing for ISSO? Check – How to Prepare for SOF ISSO Olympiad Exam?
Conclusion
The SOF ISSO exam provides a platform for students to showcase their social studies awareness and compete at various levels. Through the SOF ISSO, students gain exposure to the broader world and become part of a global community of young social studies enthusiasts. The Olympiad serves as a stepping stone for further academic and career opportunities in social studies and related fields. By participating in the SOF ISSO, students embark on an exciting journey of exploration, learning, and personal growth in the realm of social studies.
Frequently Asked Questions on ISSO Exam Registrations
- How can I register for the SOF ISSO exam on my own?
No, individual students cannot directly register for the SOF ISSO exam. Registration can only be done through participating schools.
- How many levels are there in the SOF ISSO?
The SOF ISSO is a single-level exam conducted within the respective schools, while level 2 is conducted for qualified students from Level 1 for SOF IMO, NSO and IEO.
- Can schools choose the date for conducting the SOF ISSO Level 1 exam?
Yes, each school can select a date for conducting the SOF ISSO Level 1 exam as per its convenience. Each date has a separate set of question papers.
- What is the medium of the SOF ISSO exam?
The medium of the SOF ISSO exam is English.
- What is the syllabus followed for the SOF ISSO exam?
The exam follows the syllabi of CBSE, ICSE/ISC, and State Boards, check the complete syllabus here ISSO Syllabus (Class 3-10).
- What is the duration and format of the SOF ISSO Level 1 exam?
The Level 1 exam is of 60 minutes duration. For classes 3 to 4, it comprises 35 objective-type (Multiple Choice) questions, while for classes 5 to 10, it consists of 50 objective-type questions. The exam includes sections on general awareness, current affairs, life skills, and an achievers section.
