Registration is now open for the 2025 National Computing Challenge (NCC), an online computer science competition designed to assess and encourage logic, reasoning, and computational thinking in students from Grades 5 to 12 .
Open to approved schools and youth organizations, the NCC does not require any prior programming experience, making it an accessible entry point for students at all levels. Participants register through their school or organization, and top-performing students are recognized by BNS News and affiliated platforms for their achievement.
Created by individuals with academic backgrounds in computer science from the University of Toronto, and developed in collaboration with Mensa leadership and experienced educators, the NCC has been recognized by educators as a valuable tool for assessing computer science reasoning and logic among students. It provides both a learning opportunity and a problem-solving competition focused on building real-world computer science skills.
The 45-minute assessment introduces participants to the foundations of computational thinking, logical reasoning, and structured problem-solving—skills that are central not only to STEM disciplines, but also to the broader challenges of academic and professional life. Each question is designed to reflect scenarios that require critical evaluation and strategic thinking.
Participants who perform at an exceptional level receive Certificates of Distinction, while all students earn Certificates of Participation recognizing their engagement and growth. The challenge has become a way for schools to support academic enrichment opportunities and encourage students to take on advanced reasoning tasks in a low-pressure, high-engagement format.
“We’re seeing students rise to the challenge with focus and determination,” said an NCC representative. “It’s encouraging to see how quickly young people develop advanced reasoning when given the right environment.”
The National Computing Challenge is open to both individual schools and organizations that support youth innovation programs. It is especially aligned with institutions that emphasize leadership through learning and value the role of logic and analysis in education.
This initiative reflects the values BNS News is committed to: recognizing student achievement, promoting skill development, and highlighting programs that help young people build the tools they’ll need to become tomorrow’s leaders.
To inquire about registering your school or academic organization, contact the organizers directly at info@bns-news.com.
More Information on the National Computing Challenge
Brilliant Minds Shine in the National Computing Challenge – Read our recap of last year’s participants