INBO Syllabus 2026 & Exam Pattern
The INBO Syllabus 2026 for the Indian National Biology Olympiad encompasses all topics of Class 11 and 12 Biology. Go through topic-wise complete details of the INBO Syllabus and Exam Pattern.
Priyanka Dahima12 Jan, 2026
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INBO Syllabus 2026 : The INBO (Indian National Biology Olympiad) is a national-level exam and the second stage of the International Biology Olympiad Programme conducted by Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education’s (HBCSE).
Approx. 400 to 500 students are selected via INBO Exam so its is very important to be prepared vigilantly knowing every minute details of the INBO Syllabus and Exam Pattern. INBO Examination are held once a year to assess the knowledge of students in Biology section and give them an opportunity to compete in international Biology Olympiads. Students who qualify for this INBO exam are eligible for OCSC. In this article you will find all the essential information about the INBO Syllabus 2026 and Exam Pattern.The INBO Examination is going to be held on 1st February 2026 and it is very important to go through the INBO syllabus and exam pattern.
INBO Syllabus 2026 Overview
Indian National Biology Olympiad is hosted at more than 18 places around India and draws a sizable student body every year. These INBO Syllabus is for the higher secondary level provide pupils more self-assurance when they participate in extracurricular activities and pinpoint their areas of weakness. It also enables students to gain a firm grasp of the Biology subject. INBO places equal focus on theory and practical abilities. Therefore, a student must fully understand both theoretical and practical concepts prior to taking this exam. Teacher can help students understand concepts thoroughly. We shall go into great detail about the INBO syllabus 2026 in this article.| INBO Syllabus 2026 Overview | |
| Organization | Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (affiliated with the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research – HBCSE) |
| Exam Name | Indian National Biology Olympiad (INChO) |
| INBO 2026 Exam Date | 1st February 2026 |
| Mode of Exam | Pen and Paper Mode |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions |
| Official Website | https://www.iapt.org.in/ |
INBO 2026 Exam Pattern
INBO 2026 exam will be conducted in offline mode as a pen-and-paper test for a duration of 2 hours, with a total of 100 marks. The paper will assess advanced concepts from Class 11 and 12 Biology through a mix of objective and descriptive questions designed to test conceptual clarity, application, and analytical skills.
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INBO 2026 Exam Pattern |
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Feature |
Details |
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Exam date |
1 February 2026 (1:30 PM – 3:30 PM IST) |
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Mode of exam |
Pen and paper, offline |
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Duration |
2 hours (120 minutes) |
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Total marks |
100 marks |
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Question type |
Mixed: Objective (MCQs) + Subjective/analytical questions |
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Sections |
Section A: 28 questions (1 mark each); Section B: 27 questions (72 marks) |
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Negative marking |
Applicable for incorrect answers in objective section |
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Syllabus level |
Advanced Class 11–12 Biology (Olympiad level) |
INBO Syllabus Detailed
The INBO Syllabus 2026 is the same as last year. Students can use this as a starting point for their test preparation. To participate in INBO, students must have a degree in chemistry. They should start with the core subjects of class 7 to 10 in order to gain deep experience and understanding. The INBO Syllabus is similar to the modern CBSE syllabus. To strengthen the fundamentals, one should be well versed with school study materials from class 11 and 12, including NCERT.- Cell Biology: Study of cells, their structure, functions, and organelles.
- Genetics : Understanding of genes, heredity, DNA, RNA, genetic disorders, and genetic engineering.
- Biotechnology : Application of biological processes in technology, including areas like genetic engineering, bioremediation, and biopharmaceuticals.
- Evolution : Understanding the process of evolution, natural selection, adaptation, and speciation.
- Plant Biology : Study of plant structure, growth, reproduction, and adaptations to various environments.
- Ecology: Examination of interactions between organisms and their environment, ecosystems, biodiversity, and conservation.
- Physiology: Study of how living organisms function, including topics like respiration, digestion, circulation, and nervous system.
- Animal Biology : Examination of animal anatomy, physiology, behavior, and diversity.
- Microbiology: Study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and their roles in ecosystems and human health.
- Immunology : Understanding the immune system, immunity, vaccines, and immune responses to pathogens.
NSEB Previous Year Question Papers
Importance of INBO Exam
- Educational Opportunity: Guaranteed participation in the IBO can improve a student's academic performance and make them more competitive for college admissions.
- Skill Development: Helps develop critical thinking, problem solving and hands-on laboratory skills useful in science.
- International network: IBO promotes international cooperation and friendship, allowing students to connect with peers from different backgrounds that are similar to life.
- Inspiration and motivation: High-level competition can motivate students to pursue science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) careers.
- Exposure to research: Participants generally gain insight into current biological research and trends and expand their understanding of the subject.
- Scholarship opportunities: Some institutions offer scholarships or special admissions for students who pass the IBO.
INBO Syllabus 2026 FAQs
Q1. Where can I get the INBO Syllabus 2026?
Ans. You can get the comprehensive and accurate details of the INBO Syllabus 2026 as per the NCERT Syllabus of Class 11 and 12 at the PW Blog.
Q2. What is the mode of INBO Exam 2026?
Ans. The INBO Exam 2026 is conducted through Pen and Paper Mode for the Indian National Biology Olympiad.
Q3. What is the difficulty level of INBO 2026?
Ans. The difficulty level of INBO 2026 will be moderate.
Q4. What are the Benefits of the INBO Syllabus 2026?
Ans. It is always beneficial to practice from INBO Syllabus 2026, as you will get to learn how to manage time in the actual examination.
Q5. What is the syllabus of the International Biology Olympiad?
Ans. The Syllabus of the International Biology Olympiad is on the basis of CBSE Syllabus of Class 11 and 12 and has been detailed in the blog.
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