"Our goal at the USA Astronomy and Astrophysics Organization (USAAAO) is to promote interest in astrophysics and astronomy across the country. Through resources, online training and selection tests, we encourage academic development and select students to represent the USA at the International Olympiad for Astronomy and Astrophysics." - USAAAO
"The main goal of IOAA is to promote the growing interest in Astronomy and related subjects, especially through the general education of young people, and enhancing the development of international contacts among different countries in promoting Astronomy and Astrophysics in schools. It is expected through the event like IOAA more bright high school students will be eager to study astronomy at the university level to become the next generation astronomers." - IOAA
Are allowed a scientific calculator and the provided table of constants
All students who place above a particular cutoff score will advance to Round 2
Round 2: National Astronomy Competition (NAC)
Students who score above the Round 1 cutoff are invited to take the NAC
Are allowed a scientific calculator and the provided table of constants
Top 5 or 10 scorers (depending on whether two teams are allowed) are selected to compete at the IOAA as a member of Team USA and participate in Round 3
Additional students may be invited to participate in Round 3 depending on a variety of factors
Round 3: Online Training
Selected students from Round 2 participate in Online Training with mentors and professional astronomers to prepare for the IOAA
On a weekly basis over several months
No further cuts will be made in Round 3 - Team USA will be determined solely based on the results from the NAC
Round 4: IOAA
Held at host country
The five selected students from the NAC will go on an all-expenses paid trip to compete
Secondary team may be allowed at the host country's discretion
