Realizing the planet we deserve.
USESO prepares students to work on era-defining challenges that intersect Earth, technology, and society.
Announcements
National Open Exam registration opens Dec 1, 2025, and closes Feb 21, 2026.
Exam window: Mar 19-23, 2026.
Training Camp: June 13-21, 2026
LEES Program: The LEES program is the policy and equity focused version of the science-focused Training Camp program. Instead of academic exams, selection for the LEES program is based on essays that assess the unique perspective and specific areas of interest that each applicant can bring to the program. More information about registration can be found here.
Updated January 14, 2026
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The United States Earth Science Organization (USESO) incentivizes and prepares ambitious, purpose-driven students to work on era-defining challenges that intersect Earth, technology, and society.
Our program identifies and serves students who exhibit potential for becoming formidable leaders through deep understanding of a specific domain and independence of thought.
We provide students with opportunities for collaboration, creativity, and individual agency through competition, outdoor field studies, and discussions led by industry experts and faculty.
By investing in these students early in their journey, our impact compounds exponentially over time towards assembling a truly influential generation of leaders capable of making high-leverage decisions in the planet’s best interest.
How to Participate
Registration
The USESO National Open Exam takes place each year in the spring, and is the first step towards the USESO Training Camp and IESO. Registration for the Open Exam typically opens near the beginning of each year.
National Open Exam
The exam is administered in March for all students and helps determine those invited to the Training Camp. The syllabus and supplemental materials for the Open Exam and the Training Camp can be found under Preparation. Additionally, students often find Past Exams to be a valuable resource.
Training Camp
Students selected from the Open Exam are invited to a week-long residential camp in the summer (usually late June to early July) to learn, meet fellow Earth science enthusiasts, and prepare for the IESO. See Training Camp for eligibility and more information.
Registration
The LEES program usually takes place in mid-July. Registration for this program typically opens in April.
Application Process
Participation in the LEES Program is not dependent on exam scores. Rather, students will be asked to submit one or more essays for admission. More information about the essay(s) will be provided when registration opens.