NUCB International College Students Win Awards At The International PhysicsBowl Contest

In a proud moment for both students and faculty, NUCB International College recently took part in the highly acclaimed PhysicsBowl Contest, an international physics competition that draws some of the brightest young minds from around the globe. Organized annually by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT), PhysicsBowl challenges high school students with a rigorous, timed exam covering a wide range of physics topics. This year’s edition saw participation from over 12,000 students across more than 1,000 schools in 20+ countries, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most competitive and respected physics contests worldwide. This is the second year NIC has been involved in the event. The stellar performances of all participating students mark a significant milestone in the school’s pursuit of academic excellence and international collaboration.

At NIC, science education is at the core of a well-rounded and forward-thinking curriculum. Students have the opportunity to explore a diverse range of scientific disciplines, including Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Environmental Systems and Societies (ESS), all taught within the rigorous framework of the IB Diploma Programme. Under the guidance of Dr. Ignacio Botella Lasaga, the college’s physics teacher, students are equipped with the analytical tools and conceptual understanding needed to tackle the most complex areas of physics. Dr. Botella works closely with students to navigate the IB’s challenging syllabus, ensuring they learn to think like a physicist. Beyond the lectures, our science team offers all students the chance to participate in international scientific competitions like PhysicsBowl, where they get to further challenge their knowledge.

One student spoke on her experiences with the competition changing her perspective on the subject of Physics, saying, "This year I wanted to join competitions, but I wasn't planning to join PhysicsBowl because I didn't want to take Physics back then. I thought that was my last opportunity to join the competition before I graduate. I'm happy I did it because now I've chosen Physics for the IB. I'm choosing Physics because I want to go into science in the future, to work with sustainable energy. Science and sustainability are both my passions".

Another student spoke on her uncertainties, mentioning, "I was shocked because I never expected to win such a high award in a subject I’m not especially strong in. I gained a lot of confidence and realized I’m more capable than I thought". She encourages other students not to be afraid to take risks and challenge themselves. She explained, "I focused on understanding key concepts and practiced with past questions, which helped build my confidence".

This year’s results were a testament to the dedication and talent of NIC’s young scientists. Students from Years 10 and 11 achieved remarkable success in the Asian region of the PhysicsBowl 2025 Contest, securing a total of nine awards. Highlights include one Asian Gold Award in Division 1, two Asian Silver Awards in Division 1, three Asian Bronze Awards in Division 1, one Asian Bronze Award in Division 2, and two Asian Honors Awards in Division 1. These outstanding achievements reflect the students’ hard work, perseverance, and deep engagement with the subject. The entire NIC community extends its warmest congratulations to both the students and Dr. Ignacio Botella.

NIC Advantages

NUCB International College is designed to provide a world-class education with excellent facilities and a rich natural environment, on its 200-acre campus, in Nisshin city, Japan.

Excellence in Education

The case method, first developed at Harvard Business School in 1922 and now commonly used in elite academic institutions worldwide, is incorporated into the teaching approaches for leadership education at NIC. Small classes enable personalised supervision by multinational faculty members with master's or doctoral degrees and faculty from affiliated top business schools. In addition, the Summer School for prospective students (July) and a preparatory course (the Bridging Programme) for September admission are also offered.

Safe Boarding Environment

The school provides a safe and secure co-educational boarding environment with reference to international boarding standards. 'House Supervisors', who are well versed in psychological and health management, provide daily support and regular individual counselling to ensure optimal support and guidance for each student. Through living together with peers from different cultures and experiences, students develop the qualities required of the next generation of leaders.