IPhyC Competition is the International Physics Competition (IPhyC) 2026, a global physics contest where students solve problem sets across multiple rounds to earn certificates and prizes. The IPhyC Qualification Round requires participants to solve five problems and submit their solutions online by the stated deadline.
The competition is organised by IPhyC (International Physics Competition), an education program and talent search in physics that provides training materials, classroom resources, and recognition for top performers. IPhyC also supports teachers, local representatives, and offers awards and financial aid information on its site.
IPhyC Competition Benefits
- All participants receive participation certificates.
- The top performers receive the 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes with cash prizes worth over 1500 USD.
- There are national awards for the best participants from each country.
- Opportunity to apply physics skills to interesting problems and to learn beyond the school curriculum.
IPhyC Competition Eligibility Criteria
- You have to be at least 14 years old, interested in physics, and willing to spend time encouraging students to engage with physics and IPhyC.
- Basic English proficiency is required to communicate with the international IPhyC team.
Academic Areas Covered by IPhyC
The competition can draw on a wide range of theoretical and applied physics subjects. The official website’s learning and preparation resources cover areas such as:
- Mechanics
- Electrodynamics
- Thermodynamics
- Quantum mechanics
- Relativity
- Fluid dynamics
- Optics
- Particle physics
- Solid-state physics
- Plasma physics
- Astrophysics
Participants should not assume that every topic will appear in every round. Instead, they should prepare broadly and practise applying fundamental principles in unfamiliar contexts.
IPhyC is designed to develop several transferable academic skills:
- Logical reasoning and creative problem-solving
- Knowledge of physical laws, concepts and definitions
- Mathematical calculation
- Scientific reading comprehension
- Analytical thinking
- Application of theoretical knowledge
- Time management
- Adaptability to different question formats
- Clear presentation of scientific solutions
The official IPhyC training and preparation page provides preparation advice, recommended reading and previous competition material.
How to Apply for IPhyC Competition
- To participate in the International Physics Competition (IPhyC) 2026, solve the Qualification Round problems and submit your solution online: Submission Form
- Download Problem Sheet 2026 via the provided link and submit your solutions before the submission deadline.
- Qualified participants can register for the Semi-Final Round and receive materials via email and their participant account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the IPhyC Competition. These answers cover what IPhyC is, what makes it unique, participation guidance, eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is IPhyC?
The International Physics Competition embraces the spirit of discovery and gives students the opportunity to challenge their physics knowledge and to learn more about this fascinating subject beyond the typical school curriculum. It allows students to explore laws of physics from fundamental to cosmic scales and to participate in a global contest.
What makes IPhyC unique?
Internationality, Digital Accessibility, Real-World Research, Adjusted Difficulty, Online Tools for Teachers, Supportive Alumni Network, and more are listed as features that make IPhyC unique. Full details are available on the About IPhyC page.
I have already participated. Should I participate again?
Yes, of course!
What is the submission deadline for the Qualification Round?
Sunday, 1 November 2026, 23:59 UTC+0
How many problems are in the Qualification Round?
The Qualification Round consists of five physics problems; each problem gives up to 5 points and you must reach the required score based on your age group to qualify for the Semi-Final.
Are there financial aid options for registration?
There is financial aid available to help socio-economically disadvantaged participants to cover their registration costs; more information is available via the Financial Aid link on the site.
What awards and prizes are offered?
All participants receive participation certificates. Top performers receive 1st–3rd prizes with cash prizes worth over 1500 USD, plus national awards, representative awards, teacher and school awards.
Can teachers register to support students?
Teachers can register for a dedicated IPhyC teacher account to view student results, download reports and certificates, cover Semi-Final registration costs for groups, and supervise the Semi-Final exam.
What is required to become a local representative?
Applicants must complete an application form including a letter of motivation, CV, academic transcript and optional certificates. Successful candidates proceed to a second stage with a personal video and solutions to short physics problems.
How are the rounds structured?
IPhyC has three rounds: Qualification Round (five problems, online submission), Semi-Final Round (supervised 60-minute exam with five problems), and Final Round (supervised exam with around 30 questions).
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Scholarships in Germany 
Scholarships in Austria 
Scholarships in Singapore 
Scholarships in UK 
Scholarships in Saudi Arabia