About NCT
An independent chemistry competition built on merit and accessibility.
Fair Competition for Every Student
The National Chemistry Tournament (NCT) is an independent chemistry competition designed to give every high school student a fair chance at recognition, regardless of their school's size or competitiveness.
NCT awards are determined purely by individual performance. Whether you're the only chemistry enthusiast at your school or competing alongside dozens of peers, your score—and only your score—determines your recognition. Every student who earns an award receives one.
We offer two exams: the Chemistry Open and Chemistry Challenge. The Chemistry Open features Honors and Advanced divisions, while the Chemistry Challenge offers Standard and Elite divisions for students seeking different challenge levels.
Accessible Chemistry Competition for All
Our mission is simple: make chemistry competition accessible to all students and recognize individual merit. Your performance earns your award.
Accessibility
Free for all students, with both in-person and online options.
Fairness
Merit-based awards determined by individual performance only.
Excellence
Challenging exams aligned with national chemistry olympiad.
Two Levels of Competition
Chemistry Open
General chemistry exam for all high school students. Honors and Advanced divisions based on coursework for fair competition.
- 60 multiple-choice questions
- 110 minutes
- February 22, 2026
Chemistry Challenge
Our advanced exam with Standard and Elite divisions. Choose your challenge level and compete against top performers.
- 60 or 72 MCQs (by division)
- 90 minutes
- March 21, 2026
Built by Educators, for Students
The National Chemistry Tournament was founded by chemistry educators passionate about fair competition. We believe that every student who excels in chemistry deserves recognition, regardless of which school they attend.
NCT is completely independent—we are not affiliated with ACS, USNCO, any university, or any other organization. This independence allows us to focus solely on what matters: creating a fair, accessible, and challenging competition for high school chemistry students.
Help Build NCT
NCT is volunteer-run and we're looking for passionate people to help us grow. Students, educators, and professionals are all welcome.
Ready to compete?
Join students across the nation in a fair, merit-based chemistry competition.
Register Now