The International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship is an annual online mathematics competition for high school and university students globally. Participants tackle problems in geometry, number theory, and applied mathematics, with top performers earning cash prizes, certificates, and national recognition. The event runs from September to December 2026 across three rounds.
The competition is organized by the IYMC, which since 2018 has built a network of over 45,000 participants from 140 countries. It aims to foster problem-solving skills and connect young math enthusiasts worldwide through a structured, multi-round format that includes a qualification round, a pre-final supervised exam, and a final round.
International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship Benefits
- Certificates for all participants (with verification IDs).
- Cash prizes worth $1,400 USD for top winners.
- National recognition for best students per country.
- Gold, Silver, Bronze honours in the Final Round.
- School awards for teachers and institutions.
- Networking with a global math community.
- Opportunity to become an IYMC Ambassador.
International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Be a current high school or university student (gap year students eligible if starting university soon).
- Belong to one of three age groups: Junior (10th grade and below, <16 years), Youth (11th–13th grade, ≥16 years), Senior (1st year university and above, ≥19 years).
- Have internet access to submit solutions online.
- Fluency in English recommended (solutions accepted in multiple languages).
How to Apply for International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship?
- Download the Qualification Round problem sheet from the official website.
- Solve the problems and prepare your solutions (typed in TeX or handwritten, uploaded as PDF, JPG, or PNG).
- Submit your solutions via the official submission form before 27 September 2026.
- Log into your participant account to track results, certificates, and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship?
It is an annual online mathematics competition open to high school and university students worldwide. Participants solve problems in geometry, number theory, and applied mathematics across three rounds. Top performers receive cash prizes, certificates, and national recognition.
Who is eligible to apply for the International Youth Math Challenge Scholarship?
Current high school and university students of all ages and nationalities can apply. Gap year students who will soon start university are also eligible. Internet access and basic English proficiency are recommended.
What are the age groups for the competition?
There are three age groups: Junior (10th grade and below, under 16 years), Youth (11th–13th grade, 16 years and above), and Senior (1st year university and above, 19 years and above). Each participant is placed in the appropriate category.
What is the deadline for the Qualification Round?
The deadline to submit solutions for the Qualification Round is 27 September 2026 at 23:59 UTC+0. Late submissions are not accepted, so plan accordingly.
What are the benefits of participating?
All participants receive a certificate with a verification ID. Top winners earn cash prizes totaling $1,400 USD. National awards are given for the best student in each country, and final round achievers receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze honours.
How do I apply?
Download the Qualification Round problem sheet from the official website, solve the problems, and upload your solutions (PDF, JPG, or PNG) via the submission form. You can use typed TeX or handwritten solutions.
Is there a registration fee?
There is no fee for the Qualification Round. The Pre‑Final Round has a registration fee of €15, but financial aid is available for those who cannot afford it.
What topics are covered in the problems?
Problems cover geometry, number theory, applied mathematics, and one research‑based problem in the Pre‑Final Round. The challenges test creative problem‑solving rather than just memorization.
How many rounds are there?
The competition has three rounds: Qualification Round (September), Pre‑Final Round (November, supervised 60‑minute exam), and Final Round (December, online supervised exam). Advancing depends on performance in each preceding round.
Can solutions be submitted in languages other than English?
Yes, solutions are accepted in multiple languages. However, the problem sheets are provided in English, Spanish, French, German, and other languages, and fluency in English is recommended for ease of communication.
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