National Chemistry Challenge
An advanced chemistry exam with Standard and Elite divisions. Choose your challenge level and compete nationwide.
Chemistry Challenge covers advanced topics
This exam covers USNCO National-level content and beyond. We recommend it for students with college-level general and organic chemistry backgrounds. Chemistry Open is recommended as practice.
Format
60 or 72 MCQs (by division)
Duration
90 minutes
Divisions
Standard and Elite
Date
March 21, 2026
Ready to register?
Form below the exam details
About the Chemistry Challenge
The National Chemistry Challenge is our advanced competition at the USNCO National level, designed to challenge students with strong chemistry backgrounds. The exam covers college-level general chemistry and organic chemistry with a focus on in-depth conceptual and computational understanding.
Topics Covered
The Chemistry Challenge covers advanced chemistry topics at the USNCO National level, including:
- Atomic Structures & Periodicity
- Bonding & Molecular Structures
- IMFs & States of Matter
- Stoichiometry & Solutions
- Kinetics
- Equilibrium
- Electrochemistry
- Thermodynamics
- Descriptive & Laboratory
- Organic/Biochemistry
Two Divisions
Choose the division that matches your desired challenge level. Both divisions cover the same topics, but Elite has more questions in the same time.
Standard Division
60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes. National-level difficulty.
Elite Division
72 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes. National-level questions plus 12 extra advanced organic chemistry questions.
Note: Division selection is based on self-assessment. Choose the level that best matches your preparation and desired challenge.
Awards
Division-Based Awards
Awards are determined by percentile within your division. Every student who earns an award receives one.
Exam Formats
In-Person
Take the exam at a local chapter on March 21, 2026.
- 2:00 - 4:00 PM EST
- Eligible for official rankings and medals
- Proctored environment
Online
Take the exam online on March 21, 2026.
- 8:00 - 10:00 PM EST
- Score reports and participation certificates
- Not eligible for official rankings
Key Dates
January 12, 2026
Registration Opens
Student and host registration begins
March 7, 2026
Host Application Deadline
Last day to apply to host a site
March 14, 2026
Registration Deadline
Last day to register for Chemistry Challenge
March 21, 2026
Exam Day
In-person 2-4 PM EST, Online 8-10 PM EST
March 22, 2026
Results Released
Scores and awards announced, including exam questions
Register for Chemistry Challenge
Fill out the form below to register for the National Chemistry Challenge 2026.