Rules & Policies
USIOT mirrors IIOT standards. Participation is free. Please read the rules and FAQs below for complete details. You can find a more detailed set of rules by clicking here.
Coding Rules
- All code must be written from scratch.
- Only syntax/library references are allowed; no templates or pre-written code.
- Follow all IIOT rules.
- Use of generative AI is strictly prohibited.
Contest Format
- Four online qualifying rounds (start 11:00 AM ET; end next day 2:00 PM ET).
- National Finals in Connecticut (hybrid via Zoom with 360º camera if remote).
- 3-hour qualifiers; 4-hour international contest.
- Results posted within a week; finalists announced after Round 4.
Eligibility & Teams
- Teams of 4 (up to 2 reserves), max 2 computers.
- All members from the same U.S. state and must reside in the U.S.
- Age: under 20 (as of July 1, 2025); not under 13 (COPPA).
- Must be enrolled in middle or high school.
- Teams may not include more than one person that has either a) competed at the IIOT International Finals or b) qualified for USACO Platinum Division.
Enforcement & Conduct
- Lifetime ban for violations; director interpretations are final.
- No sharing code/technical info during active contests.
- System use: no multiple accounts; no malicious code.
- Questions: director@usiot.net
Ready to compete?
Form your team and review the rules before the season begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about fees, timing, eligibility, scoring, finals, and logistics.
Is there a registration fee?
No. USIOT does not charge any fees at any stage of the competition.
What programming languages can I use?
Teams may use C, C++, or Pascal during the competition.
When do online rounds start and end?
The practice round and all four qualifying rounds begin at 11:00 AM ET and end the next day at 2:00 PM ET.
How is the qualification score calculated?
Your final qualification score is the total of your team’s scores from Qualifying Rounds 1 through 4.
How will I know if my team qualified for Nationals?
Finalists are announced after Round 4. Qualified teams receive an email with details and a link to the national finalist website.
If we win Nationals, do we go to IIOT finals?
Yes—your team will represent Team USA at the IIOT International Finals, provided all USIOT and IIOT rules are followed.
Where are Nationals and IIOT finals held?
Nationals are hybrid—in-person in Connecticut or remote via Zoom with a 360° camera. The international finals are in Piatra Neamț, Romania.
How do I start the contest? Forgot the login?
During contest windows, a banner appears at the top of the USIOT website with a contest link. If you forgot credentials, see: https://www.authpro.com/auth/dk1006498/?action=lost
Who can I contact with questions?
Email the contest director at director@usiot.net.
Any restrictions on team composition?
Teams must have 4 students (up to 2 reserves), all from the same U.S. state. Limits may apply on prior IIOT finalists and USACO Platinum participants; age must be under 20 as of July 1, 2025 and not under 13.