Students with a passion for mathematics can now apply for the 2026 International Youth Math Challenge (IYMC), a global competition offering more than $1,500 in cash prizes, international recognition, certificates, and opportunities to join a worldwide network of young mathematicians.
The competition is open to high school and university students from all countries and is designed to test participants’ mathematical creativity, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills through multiple rounds.
According to the organisers, the competition has attracted thousands of participants from across the globe since its launch in 2018, providing young learners with a platform to showcase their mathematical abilities on an international stage.
Eligibility
The competition is open to:
High school students and undergraduates worldwide.
Participants will compete in three age categories:
Junior: Grade 10 or below (under 16 years)
Youth: Grades 11–13 (approximately 16–18/19 years)
Senior: University students (19 years and above)
All participants will solve the same set of mathematical problems, although the qualifying scores differ by age category.
Applicants only need basic materials such as paper, a pen, and internet access to participate. Solutions may be submitted in several supported languages, including English, German, Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish.
Competition Stages
The competition consists of three rounds:
Qualification Round (September 2026)
Participants will solve five mathematics problems. Those who achieve the required qualifying score will advance to the next stage. The deadline for submission is September 27, 2026, and all participants will receive digital certificates.
Pre-Final Round (November 2026)
Successful candidates will sit for a 60-minute online examination consisting of five questions. Participants are expected to study a real-world research paper before the examination. Registration for this stage costs 15 Euros.
Final Round (December 2026)
Finalists will participate in a supervised online examination featuring multiple short-answer questions. Winners will receive certificates, honours, and cash prizes.
Benefits
Successful participants stand to gain:
Cash prizes worth more than $1,500
Official international certificates
Gold, Silver, or Bronze Honours for outstanding performances
National honorary certificates for top performers in each participating country
Access to an international alumni network
Scholarship information and networking opportunities
International exposure and academic recognition
Enhanced logical reasoning and mathematical problem-solving skills
Cash Prize Breakdown
Senior Category
1st Prize – $250
2nd Prize – $175
3rd Prize – $125
Youth Category
1st Prize – $200
2nd Prize – $150
3rd Prize – $100
Junior Category
1st Prize – $175
2nd Prize – $125
3rd Prize – $100
Additional awards will also be presented to exceptional teachers, schools, and ambassadors supporting the competition.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the official International Youth Math Challenge (IYMC) website, download the Qualification Round problem sheet, solve the questions, and submit their solutions through the online application portal.
Applicants are advised to:
Clearly indicate their final answers.
Submit one PDF or image file not exceeding 10 MB.
Ensure their names and dates of birth are entered correctly, as these details will appear on certificates.
Regularly check their participant accounts for updates and results.
The application deadline is September 27, 2026.https://www.iymc.info/en/language?return_to=%2Fen%2F
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