Coding Power is Made with HKICO

HKICO (Hong Kong International Computational Olympiad) is a global stage that enhances students’ programming abilities. By bringing together learners from many countries, HKICO develops computational thinking, creativity, and collaboration. The contest sharpens skills in problem-solving, algorithm design, and abstraction, helping students transform curiosity into innovation and gain international recognition.

Unlock your coding potential and shine on the international stage.

“SHAPING YOUNG MINDS THROUGH CODING”

The Hong Kong International Computational Olympiad (HKICO) is a premier international programming competition for students in Grades 3–12. It promotes computational thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, while encouraging global collaboration and exchange.

The journey begins with the National Round, a 60-minute online multiple-choice test (20 questions). Top performers advance to the International Round in Singapore, a 90-minute contest with 24 questions, designed to challenge advanced problem-solving skills. Scoring awards +2 for correct, −1 for incorrect, and 0 for blanks, with distinctions ranging from Merit to Champion.

Outstanding students not only compete for medals and trophies but also earn opportunities for academic exchange, STEM programs, and international recognition. HKICO provides a platform to showcase programming talent, build confidence, and experience an unforgettable global challenge.

How to Join HKICO

Step into the challenge and shine worldwide

Register for the National Round
  1. Register for the Local Round

    Sign up through Contest Bag to join HKICO. Secure your spot for the March round and get ready to compete.

  2. Check the Syllabus

    Each grade has a clear programming language. Reviewing them carefully is the key to preparing well.

  3. Practice with Resources

    Your account includes access to past papers for your grade. Use them to build confidence and sharpen your skills.

  4. Review Your Performance

    Practice tests help you measure your progress before the real event. They give you confidence and show you where you need to improve.

  5. Compete in the National Round

    Take the official online test and prove your coding ability. This round decides who qualifies for the International Round.

  6. Advance to the Global Finals

    Top achievers qualify for Singapore, where they compete globally, join STEM programs, and celebrate success with awards.

HKICO begins with the National Round, continues through International Selections, and concludes with the Global Finals.

From Local Tests to Global Triumphs

1. National Round (Online Test)

Start your HKICO journey with the 60-minute online test. Solve multiple-choice coding questions based on your grade. Earn certificates, medals, and the chance to qualify for the International Round.

2. Get Your Result

Participants who achieve medals in the National Round qualify for the International Round in Singapore, where they advance to compete globally

3. Global Finals

Travel to the host city/country —Singapore— to face challenging problems alongside international peers. Celebrate diversity, win awards, and gain worldwide recognition.

FAQs

HKICO Frequently Asked Questions

If there's anything you're still wondering, chances are, we've answered it here!

HKICO is open to students from Grade 3 to Grade 12. Each grade competes using a syllabus tailored to their level.

02. What domains are tested in HKICO?

The Olympiad focuses on computational thinking and programming, covering Scratch, Blockly, and Python depending on grade level. Students are tested on skills like problem-solving, algorithm design, decomposition, pattern recognition, and abstraction

03. How is HKICO structured?

HKICO has two rounds: the National Round (online) and the International Round (in-person, hosted in Singapore)

 

04. How long is the test and how many questions are there?

  • National Round: 20 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes

  • International Round: 24 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes

05. How is the scoring system?

Correct answers: +2 points
Incorrect answers: –1 point
No answer (blank): 0 points

06. What awards are given?

In HKICO, participants receive certificates, medals, and trophies. Awards include Champion, Runner-ups, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit, while all others get a Participation Certificate. Special titles like Perfect Scorer and World Star are also awarded

 

07. What happens in the Global Round?

The International Round of HKICO is hosted in Singapore, where top achievers face advanced programming challenges, connect with peers from different countries, and take part in STEM education and cultural exchange programs

 

08. How do I register for HKICO?

Registration is done through Contest Bag at www.contestbag.com. You can choose to register for the National Round and later for the Global Round if you qualify.

 

09. When does HKICO take place?

For 2025–2026, the National Round is on April 6, 2026, and the International Round will be held in mid-June 2026 in Singapore.

10. What if I have more questions?

We are always available to answer your questions. Use our support page (https://contestbag.com/support) if you have any inquiries.