BPhO, one of the most valuable high school physics competitions globally, is not only a "hardcore endorsement" for applying to STEM programs at Oxbridge, G5, and Ivy League schools but also an important benchmark for testing students' deep understanding of physics, modeling ability, and scientific literacy. However, its large volume, high difficulty, broad knowledge scope, and lengthy questions mean it is not a competition that can be won by "cramming at the last minute."
I. Why Must You Prepare Half a Year in Advance? — Two Core Reasons
Reason 1: Extremely Broad Exam Scope, Far Exceeding A-Level/IB/AP
It covers, but is not limited to:
Mechanics (rigid body rotation, simple harmonic motion, astrophysics)
Electromagnetism (intro to Maxwell's equations, LC circuits, electromagnetic induction)
Thermodynamics (entropy, Carnot cycle)
Optics (interference, diffraction, polarization)
Modern physics (relativity, quantum basics, atomic models)
Mathematical tools: calculus (derivatives, integrals, differential equations), vectors, complex numbers
Many topics are only briefly touched on in high school curricula, requiring independent study to introductory university physics levels.
Reason 2: Deep Understanding + Flexible Application ≠ Short-Term Cramming
BPhO tests modeling thinking, not memorization.
E.g., "Using calculus to derive the parabolic shape of a rotating liquid surface" → requires integrating calculus, fluid mechanics, and energy minimization concepts.
High computational complexity: A single problem often requires multiple derivation steps; an error in any intermediate step leads to failure.
Adapting to question length: A Section 2 problem statement can be up to 2 A4 pages long, containing diagrams, background info, and multiple sub-questions, requiring training to quickly extract key information.
II. Major Policy Changes Since 2025: Quota Limit + Qualifying Competitions
According to ASDAN China's official notice:
| Change | Impact |
|---|---|
| Quota limit of 3500 participants in China | Registration may close early; no longer "first-come, first-served." |
| Introduction of IPC (Intermediate) & SPC (Primary) as qualifying competitions | Award winners in IPC/SPC are prioritized for BPhO participation slots. |
| Open registration only if slots remain available | If qualifying competition winners fill the 3500 slots, there will be no open registration opportunity. |
III. Core Preparation Strategies: Past Papers + Self-Awareness + Extended Reading
Past Paper Practice: At least 5 sets, do them thoroughly, don't just skim.
Focus on Round 1 (main round for Chinese students):
Section 1 (~15 short-answer questions), total ~50 points: Do the ones you know. Aim for 40+ points.
Section 2 (4–5 long problems, choose 2), each ~25 points: Choose the 2 topics you are best at.
How to judge "proficiency"? You are solid on over 80% of the problem's content, and the remaining 20% can be filled in through logical reasoning.
Practice rhythm:
Sets 1–2: No time limit, focus on understanding.
Sets 3–4: Strict 3-hour time limit, simulate exam conditions.
Set 5: One week before the exam, check for gaps.
Build "Problem Sense" and a "Module Strength Map"
Through past paper analysis, identify your 2–3 strongest topics. During the exam, decisively skip weak areas and concentrate firepower on your strengths to maximize scoring efficiency.
Extended Reading: Connecting the Cutting Edge with Life
Recommended resources: University Physics with Modern Physics (Young & Freedman); The Feynman Lectures on Physics (selected readings); Science journals like Physics World, Scientific American, Nature Physics.
Follow hot topics: Cultivate "physics eyes" — when seeing tech breakthroughs in the news, think "what's the underlying physics principle?"
IV. Half-Year Preparation Timeline
| Time Period | Tasks |
|---|---|
| Months 1–2 (e.g., July–August) | Systematically study BPhO core topics, address weaknesses in calculus, rigid body mechanics, electromagnetism, etc. |
| Months 3–4 (e.g., September–October) | Start practicing Round 1 past papers, establish knowledge framework. |
| Month 5 (e.g., October–Pre-exam) | Full mock exams + error review; follow physics frontiers; confirm registration eligibility. |