American Computer Science League (ACSL)

An international computer science and programming competition for students in Grades 3–12. The season consists of four contests during the academic year. Topics include number systems, Boolean algebra, digital electronics, fundamental computer science concepts and programming. Depending on the division, participants complete short-answer tests and programming problems using languages such as Python, C++ or Java.

Develops algorithmic thinking, logical reasoning and programming skills; offers international competition experience; enables comparison with students worldwide; helps prepare for computer science olympiads; provides an opportunity to qualify for the online finals; awards and certificates are available to top performers.

Students in Grades 3–12. Five divisions are available: Elementary (Grades 3–6), Junior (up to Grade 9), Intermediate, Senior and Classroom (all grades). A teacher, parent or another adult with computer science experience registers the team. The school or educational organization registers the team and pays the fee. Depending on the team format, rosters can include up to 6 or 10 students; there is no minimum team size. Junior, Intermediate and Senior divisions include programming problems.