Olympiad events require the transfer of conceptual understanding to novel situations. Thus, the events exercise critical thinking skills. Olympiad events are designed to foster the growth of students’ knowledge and understanding of science and technology. Olympiad provides an opportunity for students and other participants to meet and interact with peers and adults of similar interests and talents.

Research conducted by Calvin W. Taylor of the University of Utah has concluded that extra-curricular training and accomplishments do show noticeable predictive power of later adult performance, achievement, and accomplishments. Olympiad helps develop productive, high performing adults.