How does USACO scoring work?

The full score is 1000, with each problem having equal weight in the score. Each problem has at least 10-16 test cases. For each test case correct, you receive the points for the test case. Programs get 4 seconds per test case for Java and Python and 2 seconds for other languages.

What score do you need to pass USACO?

The total score is 1000 points for 30 test cases. This implies that one earns 33.3 points by passing one test case. The cutoff scores to pass Bronze, Silver or Gold Division are roughly between 700 and 800 points, indicating passing 21 to 24 test cases out of 30.

How much is each test case worth in USACO?

Each of the test cases are worth an equivalent amount of points, and the total point value of all of them is 333. Sometimes, earlier test cases will be significantly easier in terms of their required time complexity.

How do you qualify for USACO silver?

To be eligible for selection as a USACO finalist and ultimately as an IOI team member, you must be enrolled in a high school (or junior high/middle school) for at least one semester in the school year before the IOI. You can concurrently take courses at other institutions, including colleges and universities.

How are USACO problems graded?

Your score for each problem depends on the number of input cases your program can solve within the time limit (for most contests, 2 seconds per input case for C and C++, and 4 seconds per input case for Java and Python, although each contest or problem may use slightly different limits).

How do you get into USACO?

The contest is entirely online. You can take it from anywhere you’ll have an internet connection and programming software, usually from home. Just sign into the website at www.usaco.org to get started anywhere.

What are the different levels of competition in USACO?

USACO has four divisions of competition, Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. All competitors start in Bronze division. After each contest weekend, you may be “promoted” to the next level with a sufficiently high score – usually getting about 600-800 out of 1000.

How do I take the USACO exam?

You can take it from anywhere you’ll have an internet connection and programming software, usually from home. Just sign into the website at www.usaco.org to get started anywhere. 4. When do I take it? USACO gives their main contests during 4 weekends per year – see the dates at www.usaco.org.

Does USACO pay for training?

Expenses for the USACO training camp are paid by the USACO, although participants are asked to fund their own transportation to the camp if possible. For the IOI, all expenses, including transportation, are paid by USACO.

When does USACO give their contest weekends?

USACO gives their main contests during 4 weekends per year – see the dates at www.usaco.org. During these weekends spanning Friday through Monday, students can choose any time to start their personal timer for that contest weekend. The time per student per weekend is usually 4 hours, but sometimes 3 or 5.