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Studying computer science is beneficial for cultivating logical thinking and problem-solving skills in adolescents. However, this requires a foundational knowledge base and cognitive abilities, and earlier participation is not necessarily better. In recent years, there has been a trend of increasingly younger elementary school students participating in the CCF Non-Professional Software Competency Certification (CSP-J/S). Premature participation in CSP-J/S by elementary school students negatively impacts their physical and mental health and regular academic development, which also contradicts the original purpose of CCF's certification program. Additionally, some middle schools have begun using elementary students’ CSP-J/S results as a reference for admissions, leading to significant utilitarian tendencies that disrupt normal educational and admission processes.

To address this, the CCF NOI Competition Committee and Scientific Committee have decided to implement age restrictions for CSP-J/S participants:

Certification applicants must be at least 12 years old by September 1 (exclusive) of the current year, applicable to both the first and second rounds of CSP-J/S. The same rule applies to participation in NOI-related competitions.

This policy takes effect immediately.

[Announcement issued]

China Computer Federation

February 13, 2025