Participating in national and international competitions like Olympiads is more than just a test of knowledge—it’s an opportunity to stand out. These competitions give high school students who want to create a strong college application an opportunity to show their intellectual growth, problem-solving abilities, and dedication to academic excellence. 

The prestige of these events, coupled with the experience of competing at such a level, can significantly enhance your college application and signal your academic calendar. In this blog, we list 10 international olympiads open to high school students!

1. International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)

Location: Australia 2025, varies annually; hosted by different countries

Cost: Typically covered by national organizing bodies; travel and accommodation costs may apply.

Eligibility: High school students under 20 who have not yet enrolled in university

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: Usually held in July over 9 days

The IMO is the most prestigious mathematics competition for high school students worldwide, often regarded as the peak of mathematical achievement at the secondary school level. The competition tests participants on their ability to solve complex problems that require deep mathematical understanding and creativity, far beyond the standard high school curriculum.

Topics covered include algebra, combinatorics, geometry, and number theory. The IMO fosters international collaboration and cultural exchange, with students competing both individually and in teams. Participating in the IMO can open doors to scholarships and opportunities at top universities.

2. International Physics Olympiad (IPhO)

Location: France 2025, varies annually

Cost: Covered by national organizations; students may need to fund travel expenses

Eligibility: High school students under 20 years old

Application Deadline: March 2025, Varies by country

Dates/Duration: 17 July - 25 July, 2025

The IPhO is an elite competition where students demonstrate their theoretical and experimental physics skills. Renowned for its challenging problems, the IPhO covers topics such as mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, optics, and quantum physics.
The competition consists of both theoretical exams and hands-on laboratory work, making it a comprehensive test of a student's physics knowledge and practical skills. The IPhO’s prestige is recognized by top universities and research institutions, and it offers a platform for students to connect with peers and mentors who share a passion for physics.

3. International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO)

Location: United Arab Emirates​, 2025(changes annually)

Cost: National bodies cover participation fees; other costs may apply.

Eligibility: High school students under 20, who haven’t started university

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: July, 10 days

The IChO is a prestigious global competition that challenges students to solve complex theoretical and practical chemistry problems. Topics include organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry. The competition consists of a theoretical exam and a practical laboratory test, pushing students to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Winning a medal at the IChO is considered a significant academic achievement, often leading to scholarships and recognition from universities and professional societies. The IChO also provides opportunities for cultural exchange and networking with future leaders in the field of chemistry.

4. International Biology Olympiad (IBO)

Location: Quezon City, Philippines,2025; Rotates among host countries

Cost: Covered by national organizations; additional expenses may apply

Eligibility: High school students who haven’t yet entered university

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: 13–20 July, 2025.

The IBO offers students the chance to show their knowledge in biology, from molecular biology and genetics to ecology and evolution. The competition includes both theoretical exams and practical laboratory tasks, requiring students to demonstrate not only their understanding of biological concepts but also their ability to perform precise experiments.

The IBO is known for its rigorous standards and its role in fostering international cooperation among young biologists. Success in the IBO can significantly enhance a student's academic profile, with many participants going on to pursue careers in science and research.

5. International Olympiad in Informatics (IOI)

Location: La Paz, Bolivia, 2025. Hosted by different countries each year.

Cost: Participation is often funded by national bodies; travel may require personal funding

Eligibility: High school students under 20 who have not entered university

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: Held in August, 7-10 days

The IOI is one of the most prestigious competitions for young computer scientists and programmers. Participants are required to solve complex algorithmic problems under time constraints, testing their programming skills and problem-solving abilities.

The competition covers topics such as data structures, algorithms, and computational complexity. The IOI also provides an opportunity for students to showcase their talents on an international stage, with many participants receiving offers from top universities and tech companies. The competition fosters a collaborative environment where students can learn from each other and explore the latest advancements in computer science.

6. International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL)

Location: Changes annually, Taipei, Taiwan for 2025.

Cost: Covered by national bodies; additional costs may apply

Eligibility: High school students, typically under 20

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: Second half of July 2025.

The IOL is a unique competition that challenges students to solve problems in linguistics, testing their ability to analyze and understand complex linguistic data. The problems often involve deciphering unknown languages, understanding language structures, and applying logical reasoning.

The IOL is one of the few international competitions that combine the study of language with mathematical and logical thinking, making it a prestigious event for students interested in linguistics, cognitive science, and computer science. The competition includes both individual and team rounds, and successful participants are often recognized for their analytical abilities and creative problem-solving skills.

7. International Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad (IAAO)

Location: Hosted by different countries each year

Cost: Participation costs are usually covered; travel may be self-funded

Eligibility: High school students who haven’t entered university

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: August, 9 days

The IAAO is a prestigious competition that allows students to explore the wonders of the universe through challenging theoretical and observational problems. The competition covers topics such as celestial mechanics, stellar physics, and observational astronomy. Participants are required to demonstrate their knowledge of the cosmos and their ability to conduct astronomical observations.

The IAAO is an excellent platform for students passionate about space sciences, offering opportunities for mentorship, networking, and further study in the field. Success in the IAAO is highly regarded by universities and research institutions specializing in astronomy and astrophysics.

8. International Geography Olympiad (iGeo)

Location:  Bangkok, Thailand, 2025. Varies annually

Cost: National bodies often cover participation costs; travel may require personal funding.

Eligibility: High school students, usually under 20

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: August, 7-10 days

The iGeo is a prestigious competition that tests students' geographical knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. The competition covers a wide range of topics, including physical geography, human geography, and environmental geography. Participants are required to demonstrate their understanding of complex geographical concepts through written tests, multimedia tasks, and fieldwork activities.

IGeo provides a platform for students to engage with global issues such as climate change, urbanization, and sustainable development. Winning a medal at the iGeo is a significant academic achievement, often leading to opportunities in geography and environmental sciences. 

9. International Economics Olympiad (IEO)

Location: Rotates among different countries

Cost: National organizations typically cover participation; travel may require personal funding

Eligibility: High school students under 20

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: August, 7 days

The IEO is a prestigious competition that tests students on economics, business, and finance concepts. Participants are required to demonstrate their understanding of economic theory, their ability to analyze real-world economic problems, and their skills in financial literacy. The competition includes both individual and team events, with participants solving case studies, developing business plans, and competing in economic simulations.

The IEO is an excellent platform for students interested in economics, business, and finance, offering opportunities for mentorship, networking, and further study in these fields. Success in the IEO is highly regarded by universities and business schools.

10. International Philosophy Olympiad (IPO)

Location: Different host country each year 

Cost: Covered by national organizations; additional expenses may apply.

Eligibility: High school students under 20

Application Deadline: Varies by country 

Dates/Duration: May, 4-5 days

The IPO is a prestigious competition that invites students to explore philosophical questions through essay writing. Participants are required to write essays on complex philosophical topics, demonstrating their ability to think critically, argue logically, and communicate effectively. The competition covers a wide range of philosophical themes, including ethics, metaphysics, and political philosophy.

The IPO is an excellent platform for students passionate about philosophy, offering opportunities for intellectual engagement, cultural exchange, and further study in the humanities. Winning a medal at the IPO is a significant academic achievement, often leading to opportunities in philosophy, law, and the social sciences.

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Image Source - IMO Logo