Beginners start with the AI Olympiad intro workshop.

USAAIO Level 2

From programming and algorithms to machine learning and linear algebra, building toward Hackathons, Kaggle, and USAAIO.

How to start

Start with a placement assessment. We use it to set the level and class, then confirm the year plan with the family. For schedules, tuition, and bundle offers, request the 2026-27 program guide through the form below.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can an Irvine beginner join the sprint directly?

We do not recommend it. The 34-week sprint moves from programming and algorithms straight into machine learning and linear algebra, and assumes solid Python already. Students without that background should take the AI Olympiad intro workshop first and then move into the sprint.

What is on the USAAIO papers?

Round 1 of the USA AI Olympiad (USAAIO) has two parts on the same day: a 60-minute non-programming paper with multiple-choice and fill-in questions on math foundations, basic coding, machine learning, deep learning with PyTorch, and convolutional neural networks; then a 75-minute programming part on Google Colab where all code must run on CPU. Round 2 covers the full syllabus.

What background do Irvine high schoolers need?

Solid Python plus high school mathematics. Matrix operations from linear algebra, probability, and the chain rule appear frequently on the non-programming paper, and a student who can call PyTorch APIs without understanding backpropagation will lose many conceptual points. Actual coding level is set by our entry assessment rather than by which school electives a student has taken. Contest details are in the competition library.

Can Irvine students take USAAIO at home?

No. Every round must be completed under in-person proctoring, at the student's school or at a university, library, or testing center authorized by USAAIO. Irvine students should confirm early in the school year that their school or an authorized site can proctor, rather than arranging it near the registration deadline.

USAAIO or USACO, which should come first?

They test different things and do not conflict. The USA Computing Olympiad (USACO) covers algorithms and data structures; USAAIO covers the AI stack, from math foundations and machine learning concepts to PyTorch work and convolutional neural networks. Students with USACO Bronze or Silver level Python pick up USAAIO noticeably faster.

Can international students take part?

Round 1 registration is open to everyone. Entering the USAAIO training camp and competing for a Team USA place requires US citizenship, permanent residency, or enrollment at a US secondary school. Canadian students may compete and win awards but cannot represent the United States internationally.