Everything you want to know About IMO (International Maths Olympiad)

The Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is a globally recognized mathematics competition designed to nurture and enhance the mathematical skills of students from class 1 to 12. The IMO aims to foster a love for mathematics by challenging students with questions that test their problem-solving abilities, logical reasoning, and analytical thinking. This prestigious exam offers students a platform to compete at both national and international levels, setting the stage for future academic and career success in the field of mathematics.

The IMO Exam is divided into two levels:

1. Level 1: Conducted at the school level, this round is open to all students who register through their respective schools.
2. Level 2: Top performers from Level 1 are invited to participate in Level 2, which determines the final rankings and awards.

Ranking and eligibility criteria

Students fulfilling either of the following 3 criteria will qualify for 2nd level Olympiads exams:

(a) Top 5% of students class wise, who appear for the 1st level exam,
(b) State wise top 25 rank holders class wise, and
(c) Class topper from each participating school where at least 10 students from a class appear in the exam & scores 50% qualifying marks.

How to Prepare for the IMO Exam

To excel in the IMO, students should:

• Understand the Syllabus:The IMO syllabus is aligned with the school curriculum but goes beyond to include higher-level mathematical concepts. Familiarizing yourself with the syllabus is the first step to effective preparation.
• Use Quality Study Material: Utilize online resources like Chapter-wise Test Banks specifically designed for IMO preparation. Resources from the SOF Olympiad Trainer provide targeted practice and concept clarification.
• Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key to success in the IMO. Solve previous years' question papers, take mock tests, and work on sample papers to build confidence and improve problem-solving speed.
• Join Online Classes: For additional support, consider joining IMO online classes that offer structured guidance and expert tips for cracking the IMO.

IMO Content

Why Participate in the SOF IMO Exam?

Participating in the SOF IMO Exam offers numerous benefits:

• Global Recognition: Excelling in the IMO allows students to gain recognition on a national and international level, enhancing their academic profiles.
• Scholarships and Awards: High-performing students have the chance to win scholarships, medals, and certificates, as well as other prestigious awards.
• Skill Enhancement: The IMO helps students develop essential skills such as logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and problem-solving, which are crucial for success in future academic and professional endeavours.
• Competitive Edge: Preparing for the IMO gives students an edge in other competitive exams and builds a strong foundation for higher education in mathematics and related fields.

IMO Exam Dates (2025-26)

Please refer to this page Exam Dates for exact IMO Dates for the year 2025-26. The SOF IMO 2025 exam is generally held in November and December every year in three sets. Please confirm the set with your school.