In a story that is inspiring students across the country, Bihar’s young science talent Sanchit Patel has secured a place in Team India for the prestigious International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) 2026. His achievement is not just a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Bihar and every student who dreams of achieving success through hard work and dedication.
Coming from a humble background and competing against some of the brightest students in the country, Sanchit’s journey proves that determination, discipline, and the right guidance can help students reach international platforms, regardless of where they come from.
In a proud and inspiring moment for students across the country, Bihar’s young science talent Sanchit Patel has secured a place in Team India for the International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) 2026. Adding to this remarkable achievement, Arnav Khandelwal has also been selected for Team India, making it a double celebration for Physics Wallah (PW).
Out of the final 6 students selected across India to represent the country at IJSO 2026, 2 students are from Physics Wallah’s Olympiad program — a significant achievement that reflects the growing impact of quality mentorship and disciplined preparation.
Coming from a humble background and competing against some of the brightest young minds in the nation, Sanchit’s journey proves that dedication, consistency, and the right guidance can help students achieve success at the international level.
The International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO) is one of the world’s most prestigious science competitions for students below 16 years of age. It tests students on conceptual understanding, scientific reasoning, analytical thinking, and practical application skills in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
The selection process for IJSO is extremely competitive and takes place through multiple national-level stages conducted across India.
Stage I: National Standard Examination in Junior Science (NSEJS)
Conducted by the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT), this exam tests students on Physics, Chemistry, and Biology concepts up to Class 10 level. Around the top 300 students qualify for the next stage.
Stage II: Indian National Junior Science Olympiad (INJSO)
This stage is conducted by HBCSE and includes both objective and descriptive questions. From thousands of students across India, only around 35 students move to the next stage.
Stage III: Orientation-cum-Selection Camp (OCSC)
At this stage, students undergo rigorous theoretical and experimental training. Finally, only the top 6 students are selected to represent India at the International Junior Science Olympiad.
Stage IV: Pre-Departure Training Camp (PDT)
Selected students receive advanced training before representing India internationally.
Stage V: International Junior Science Olympiad (IJSO)
The final international competition where students compete in theoretical exams, laboratory tests, and scientific problem-solving rounds.
Sanchit Patel’s success story did not begin with shortcuts or extraordinary privileges. Like many students, he started with curiosity and a strong interest in science. But what made him stand out was his commitment to understanding concepts deeply rather than simply memorising answers.
He focused on strengthening his fundamentals in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology while continuously improving his analytical and problem-solving abilities. His preparation involved long hours of revision, advanced problem practice, and disciplined self-study.
The road to IJSO was filled with challenges, pressure, self-doubt, and intense competition. Yet, Sanchit stayed focused on his goal and continued moving forward with patience and consistency.
For many students, Olympiads feel difficult and out of reach. However, Sanchit believed that students from small towns and ordinary backgrounds can also dream big and compete globally.
He appeared in multiple stages of national-level examinations and training camps. With every round, the competition became tougher, but he treated every challenge as a learning opportunity.
After months of rigorous preparation, he finally achieved what thousands of students aspire to — a place in Team India for IJSO 2026.
Alongside him, Arnav Khandelwal also earned a spot in the final Indian team, making this achievement even more special for the PW Olympiad community.
Sanchit and Arnav received structured mentorship, concept-based learning support, regular practice sessions, and exam-oriented guidance through Physics Wallah’s Olympiad platform.
The focus was never on rote learning. Instead, students were encouraged to build conceptual clarity, scientific thinking, and confidence in solving application-based problems.
The mentorship and disciplined preparation strategy helped both students stay motivated throughout the demanding selection process.
Their success highlights how digital learning platforms are now helping talented students from every corner of India access quality education and compete at the highest levels.
Sanchit concentrated on understanding scientific concepts deeply, which helped him tackle difficult and application-based questions.
His journey proves that regular study and disciplined preparation are more effective than occasional long study hours.
Coming from Bihar did not stop him from aiming high. His success shows that talent and determination matter more than background.
Every competitive exam journey includes setbacks. Sanchit treated mistakes as opportunities to improve.
Quality mentorship, proper strategy, and continuous support played an important role in his success.
Behind Sanchit’s achievement was the unwavering support of his family. His parents motivated him during stressful phases and encouraged him to continue working hard toward his goals.
His father shared an important message for parents — every child has unique strengths, and students should be encouraged to explore their interests instead of facing unnecessary pressure.
Their support gave Sanchit the confidence to stay focused even during difficult preparation periods.
Sanchit Patel and Arnav Khandelwal’s achievement is much more than an Olympiad success story. It is proof that passion, discipline, and the right mentorship can transform dreams into reality.
As they prepare to represent India at the International Junior Science Olympiad 2026, both students have already become role models for thousands of young aspirants across the country.
Their journey sends a powerful message — no dream is too big when backed by hard work, consistency, and self-belief.

