IMO 2026 Exam Date and Full Schedule: Timeline & Stage-Wise Dates

IMO 2026 Exam Date is an important detail for students who are preparing for one of the most respected mathematics competitions in the world. The International Mathematical Olympiad is designed for high school students who have a strong interest in problem-solving and logical thinking. Every year, students from many countries take part after going through national-level selection processes.

The 67th edition of the International Mathematical Olympiad will be held in 2026. It will continue the tradition of bringing young mathematical minds together on a global platform. Knowing the exam date, schedule, and timeline helps students, teachers, and parents plan preparation in a structured manner.

Also Read: 

• IMO Previous Year Question Papers
• IMO Syllabus

IMO 2026 Overview

The International Mathematical Olympiad is an annual event conducted under international regulations. It focuses on proof-based questions that test deep understanding rather than rote learning. IMO 2026 will be hosted by China in the city of Shanghai.

Before looking at dates in detail, it is useful to understand the basic framework of the exam. The overview below gives a quick snapshot of the key information related to IMO 2026.

IMO 2026 Exam Date

The core of the event is a two-day examination. The IMO 2026 Exam Date for the first paper is July 15, 2026. The second paper will take place on July 16, 2026. Each session lasts 4.5 hours. During this time, students must solve three difficult problems. There are a total of six problems across both days.

IMO 2026 Full Schedule

The full schedule of IMO 2026 covers more than just the exam days. It includes registration deadlines, arrival dates, coordination meetings, and the closing ceremony. While the detailed daily timetable is released closer to the event, the main schedule is already available.

The IMO 2026 Exam Date falls within the official event period. The schedule is planned to ensure smooth coordination between teams, examiners, and organizers. Key schedule components include:

• Arrival of teams and leaders

• Opening ceremony

• Paper 1 examination

• Rest and coordination day

• Paper 2 examination

• Marking and coordination

• Closing ceremony and departure

All these activities take place between 10 July and 20 July 2026. Students are advised to follow only official announcements for exact daily timings.

IMO 2026 Exam Timeline

The exam timeline gives a step-by-step view of important dates related to registration and participation. This timeline is mainly followed by national bodies, team leaders, and coordinators.

IMO 2026 Stage Wise Dates

The selection process for IMO 2026 differs from country to country. In India, the process is conducted by HBCSE on behalf of NBHM. It includes several stages before students reach the international level. Each stage has its own tentative timeline.

Stage 1: Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics (IOQM)
This stage is usually conducted in the second half of the year before the IMO. It serves as the first screening test.

Stage 2: Regional Mathematics Olympiad (RMO)
RMO is held after the IOQM results. It tests deeper understanding and problem-solving skills.

Stage 3: Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO)
INMO is conducted at the national level. Students who perform well move to the training phase.

Stage 4: International Mathematical Olympiad Training Camp (IMOTC)
This camp is organized at HBCSE, Mumbai. It includes lectures and tests spread over several weeks.

Stage 5: Pre-Departure Camp (PDC)
The final selected students receive focused training before leaving for the host country.

Stage 6: International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO 2026)
The final stage takes place in July 2026. The IMO 2026 Exam Date falls within this stage, during the official event period from 10 July to 20 July 2026.