Syllabus
What to study (Class VIII)
Basic Mathematics
- Rational Numbers
- Linear Equations in One Variable
- Understanding Quadrilaterals
- Squares and Square Roots
- Algebraic Expressions and Identities
- Exponents and Powers
Science
Physics
- Light
- Force and Pressure
Chemistry
- Synthetic Fibers and Plastics
- Materials: Metals and Non-Metals
Biology
- Crop Production and Management
- Microorganisms: Friend and Foe
- Conservation of Plants and Animals
Exam Pattern
Two-Tier format with negative marking
Tier-1 is the preliminary level test for all applicants, while Tier-2 is the advanced level test for students who qualify Tier-1.
Tier 1 — Preliminary Level
- Number of Questions: 45
- Duration: 60 Minutes
- Type of Questions: Single-correct objective questions
Marking Scheme:
• Correct Answer +4 Marks
• Incorrect Answer −1 Marks
• Correct Answer +4 Marks
• Incorrect Answer −1 Marks
Tier 2 — Advanced Level
(Only for students who qualify Tier 1)
- Number of Questions: 30
- Duration: 60 Minutes
- Type of Questions: Higher Order Thinking MCQs
Marking Scheme:
• Correct Answer +4 Marks
• Incorrect Answer −1 Marks
• Correct Answer +4 Marks
• Incorrect Answer −1 Marks
Recognition
Prizes & Scholarships — Class VIII
Total Prize Pool for Class VIII: ₹ 1.5 Lakh
1st Rank
₹ 50,000
Cash prize to the topper
2nd Rank
₹ 25,000
Cash prize to the runner-up
3rd Rank
₹ 10,000
Cash prize to the 3rd ranker
Next 13 Students
Ranks 4th– 16th
₹ 5,000 each
Total 13 students after 3rd rank
Total: ₹65,000
Scholarships
GDSO 2025 offers ₹2 Crore in scholarships across classes. See the complete scholarship breakdown for eligibility and coverage.
View ₹2 Cr Scholarships
GDSO 2025 offers ₹2 Crore in scholarships across classes. See the complete scholarship breakdown for eligibility and coverage.
Note: All Tier-1 participants will receive a certificate of participation after the exam.

