International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) 2026: Dates, Registration, Eligibility, Syllabus & Selection Process

The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is the world’s most prestigious mathematics competition for high-school students, known for testing deep logical thinking and advanced problem-solving skills. The 67th International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO 2026) will bring together the brightest young mathematical minds from more than 100 countries. 

Participants will compete in a rigorous two-day examination featuring challenging, proof-based problems drawn from algebra, number theory, geometry, and combinatorics. The competition not only evaluates mathematical creativity and precision but also encourages international collaboration and academic excellence. IMO 2026 continues the tradition of fostering global talent and inspiring future mathematicians.

Also Read: IMO Previous Year Question Papers

IMO 2026 Registration

Registration for IMO 2026 is conducted online by national teams and leaders rather than by individual students. National mathematical societies or organizing bodies register:

• Countries/territories as participating delegations.

• Leaders, Deputy Leaders, and Observers.

• Country student numbers (size of the team).

Students should coordinate registration through their national olympiad bodies (for example, HBCSE in India) — individuals cannot register separately.

Stages of Mathematical Olympiad

The Indian Maths Olympiad program is conducted by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE) on behalf of the National Board for Higher Mathematics (NBHM). This program helps find the best math talents in India and prepares them for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).

Students go through 6 stages to reach the final international level:

Stage 1: Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics (IOQM)

This is the first stage of the Olympiad journey.

• Open for students across India.

• It’s a screening test to select students for the next level.

• Organized at the national level.

Stage 2: Regional Mathematics Olympiad (RMO)

• Selected students from IOQM take part in RMO.

• This test checks deeper understanding of math.

• It’s held region-wise and is a bit tougher.

Stage 3: Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO)

• Top students from RMO are invited for INMO.

• This is a national-level exam with more advanced questions.

• Performance in INMO helps you qualify for training camp.

Stage 4: International Mathematical Olympiad Training Camp (IMOTC)

• Selected students attend a training camp at HBCSE, Mumbai.

• They get special training from top mathematicians.

• A series of tests and lectures are held to choose the top 6 students.

Stage 5: Pre-Departure Camp (PDC)

• The final 6 students train further before going to the international competition.

• This is the last step in India before the main event.

Stage 6: International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)

• Held every July in a different country.

• India’s team of 6 students, along with the director, deputy leader, and observers, represents the country.

• The competition has 2 written tests over two days.

• Each test has 3 challenging problems and lasts for 4.5 hours.

IMO 2026 Host Country and Venue

The International Mathematical Olympiad 2026 will be hosted by China in the city of Shanghai. The competition and related events will be conducted at designated Olympiad venues, including Shanghai High School and associated facilities.

Host Country: People’s Republic of China
Host City: Shanghai
Venue: Shanghai High School (Olympiad premises)

IMO 2026 mark a significant return of the Olympiad to mainland China — a landmark for mathematical community engagement and international cultural exchange.

IMO 2026 Dates and Schedule

The competition is scheduled to take place in July 2026:

• Opening & Arrival Days: Early July 2026

• Competition Period: 10 July – 20 July 2026 (inclusive of contest, marking, coordination, and closing events)

The exact daily schedule (arrival, exam sessions, social events, closing ceremony) and updates will be published on the official IMO 2026 website.

IMO 2026 Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility for the International Mathematical Olympiad is determined by the IMO General and Annual Regulations:

Global Eligibility

• Participants must be high school students (typically under 20 years of age on 31 July 2026).

• They must not yet be enrolled in a tertiary degree program.

• Each country selects its team based on its national selection procedures.

Team Structure

• A standard IMO team consists of 6 student contestants plus team leaders and deputy leaders, all registered by national bodies.

IMO 2026 Selection Process

The selection process differs by country, but generally follows these stages:

1. National Qualifying Exams (IOQM, RMO, INMO for India).

2. Training Camps & Tests (intensive problem-solving programs).

3. Final Team Selection (top performers selected to represent the country at IMO).

For example, in India, a multi-stage selection includes IOQM → RMO → INMO → IMOTC → Team selection camp.

IMO 2026 Syllabus and Exam Pattern

Unlike most academic tests, the IMO Syllabus has no fixed syllabus list. The problems are designed to test creative problem-solving, mathematical reasoning, and rigorous proof skills across core mathematical topics.

Core Areas Frequently Covered

• Algebra

• Number Theory

• Combinatorics

• Geometry

The level is advanced and typically draws on high-school mathematics beyond standard curricula.

IMO 2026 Marking Scheme and Duration

The standard IMO exam format (set by IMO Board) is:

• Total Problems: 6

• Days: 2

• Problems per Day: 3

• Daily Duration: 4.5 hours (per session)

• Marks per Problem: 7

• Maximum Score: 42 points total
  
  

Key Rules:

• No calculators permitted.

• Problems require rigorous written proofs.

• Solutions are coordinated and graded internationally for consistency.
  
  

IMO 2026 Participating Countries

The IMO traditionally invites over 100 countries from all continents. Each nation sends a delegation including students, leaders, and observers. 

A confirmed list of participants is normally published by the IMO Board closer to the event.

IMO 2026 Important Instructions for Students

Students appearing for IMO 2026 must carefully follow all official guidelines related to eligibility, registration, exam rules, and conduct. Important instructions, timelines, and updates are provided below and should be checked regularly to avoid any mistakes.

Preparation Tips:

• Practice past IMO problems and solutions to understand proof-style reasoning.

• Work on advanced topics in number theory, geometry, combinatorics, and algebra.

• Engage in national training camps if available.

 Protocol Reminders:

• Contestants must adhere to guide rules, including entry and exit times in exam halls per Annual Regulations.

• For students under 18, national teams must assign legal guardian status to leaders per host country requirements. 

IMO 2026 Official Website and Updates

All official announcements, schedules, regulations, and updates related to IMO 2026 will be released through the official IMO 2026 website and global IMO communication channels.

Students, parents, and educators are advised to:

• Regularly check official announcements

• Follow updates released by national olympiad bodies

• Refer only to official communication for dates and rules