International Mathematics Olympiad – Overview
Before delving into the specific details of the International Mathematics Olympiad, it is important to have a basic understanding of it. Here is the general overview of the IMO:
| Exam Organizing Body | Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) |
| Eligibility | Students from Classes 1 to 12, enrolled in a school recognized by SOF. |
| Application Process | Via Respective School Authorities |
| Exam Dates | Level 1 Exam Dates 2025: 12th November, 28th November, 12th December. (A school may select one date to conduct the exam as per their convenience.)
Level 2 Exam Date: Yet to be announced. |
| Exam Mode | Offline |
| Fee of registration | ₹ 125 |
| Languages | English |
| Duration | 1 hour |
Benefits of IMO
There are many benefits to participating in the IMO. Given below are some of the key benefits of the IMO examinations:
- Improving problem-solving skills – The IMO is a challenging competition that requires students to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions to mathematical problems. Participating in the IMO can help improve problem-solving skills, a valuable asset in all aspects of life.
- Developing logical reasoning skills – The IMO also tests students’ logical reasoning abilities. By participating, one can learn to think more logically and identify patterns and relationships between numbers and shapes.
- Increasing mathematical knowledge – The IMO covers a wide range of mathematical topics, from basic arithmetic to advanced algebra and geometry. By participating, students can learn new mathematical concepts and expand their mathematical knowledge.
- Gaining competitive advantage – Participating in the IMO can give students a competitive edge in college admissions and job applications. Many colleges and universities look for students who have participated in prestigious competitions like the IMO. Additionally, many employers value the problem-solving and logical reasoning skills developed through IMO participation.
IMO Eligibility
Students from Classes 1 to 12 who wish to assess and enhance their mathematical skills are eligible to apply for the IMO. To advance to Level 2, all participants must first successfully pass the Level 1 examination. Further details regarding the eligibility criteria are provided below:
Eligibility for Level 1 Exam:
- The IMO Level 1 exam is open to all students from Class 1 to 12, regardless of their grades.
- Students in Class 1 to 12 pursuing education within or outside of the country are eligible to participate in the IMO Level 1 exam.
Only students who achieve a minimum performance level in the Level 1 exam are eligible to participate in the Level 2 exam. The following students will qualify for the Level 2 exam:
- At the international level: The top 5% of candidates from each class, based on their performance in the Level 1 examination across all participating countries, will qualify.
- At the zonal/state level: The top 25 rank holders from each zone and each class are eligible to move forward.
- At the school level: The class topper qualifies, provided that at least 10 students from that class appeared for the exam and the topper secured a minimum of 50% qualifying marks.
Note: Class 1 and 2 students will not be required to take the Level 2 exam. Their performance will be evaluated based on the Level 1 exam only.
NSO (National Science Olympiad) 2025-26: Eligibility, Exam Dates, Results & Awards
IMO Exam Levels 2025
Before delving into further details, it is important to first understand the exam pattern of the Olympiad. The examination comprises multiple-choice questions and problem-solving tasks designed to evaluate a student’s grasp of mathematical concepts and logical reasoning skills. The syllabus for IMO Level 1 and Level 2 covers a broad spectrum of topics, including algebra, trigonometry, geometry, linear equations, differential equations, limits and derivatives, integers, and probability. The IMO is conducted in two levels, and detailed information about each level is provided below:
Students from Classes 1 to 12 take part in the Level 1 exam. The main features of the IMO Level 1 exam are as follows:
- The Level 1 exam is conducted during school hours at the student’s respective school.
- It is a 60-minute exam with English as the sole language medium.
- The exam consists of objective-type questions. Students from Classes 1 to 4 need to attempt 35 questions, while students from Classes 5 to 12 must attempt 50 questions in total.
- The IMO question paper has 4 sections:
- Logical Reasoning (Section 1)
- Mathematical Reasoning (Section 2)
- Everyday Mathematics (Section 3)
- Achievers Section (Section 4)
- CBSE, ICSE/ISC and State Board syllabus are referred to while setting the exam papers.
The pattern of the level 1 exams is given below:
| Class | Section | No. of Questions | Marks/Question | Total Marks |
| 1st to 4th | Section – 1: Logical Reasoning | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Section – 2: Mathematical Reasoning | 10 | 1 | 10 | |
| Section – 3: Everyday Mathematics | 10 | 1 | 10 | |
| Section – 4: Achievers Section | 5 | 2 | 10 | |
| Grand Total | 35 | 40 | ||
| 5th to 10th | Section – 1: Logical Reasoning | 15 | 1 | 15 |
| Section – 2: Mathematical Reasoning | 20 | 1 | 20 | |
| Section – 3: Everyday Mathematics | 10 | 1 | 10 | |
| Section – 4: Achievers Section | 5 | 3 | 15 | |
| Grand Total | 50 | 60 | ||
| 11th & 12th | Section – 1: Logical Reasoning | 15 | 1 | 15 |
| Section – 2: Mathematical Reasoning / Applied Math | 20 | 1 | 20 | |
| Section – 3: Everyday Mathematics | 10 | 1 | 10 | |
| Section – 4: Achievers Section | 5 | 3 | 15 | |
| Grand Total | 50 | 60 |
Level 2:
The Level 2 paper is divided into two sections, Mathematics and Achievers Section. The number of questions, marks per question, and total marks vary by class grouping:
Classes 3 to 4:
- Mathematics Section: 30 questions, each carrying 1 mark (Total: 30 marks)
- Achievers Section: 5 questions, each carrying 2 marks (Total: 10 marks)
- Grand Total: 35 questions, 40 marks
Classes 5 to 12:
- Mathematics Section: 45 questions, each carrying 1 mark (Total: 45 marks)
- Achievers Section: 5 questions, each carrying 3 marks (Total: 15 marks)
- Grand Total: 50 questions, 60 marks
The pattern of the level 2 exams is given below:
| Class | Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
| 3rd & 4th | Mathematics | 30 | 1 | 30 |
| Achievers Section | 5 | 2 | 10 | |
| Grand Total | 35 | 40 | ||
| 5th to 10th | Mathematics | 45 | 1 | 45 |
| Achievers Section | 5 | 3 | 15 | |
| Grand Total | 50 | 60 | ||
| 11th & 12th | Mathematics | 25 | 1 | 25 |
| Mathematical Reasoning / Applied Math | 20 | 1 | 20 | |
| Achievers Section | 5 | 3 | 15 | |
| Grand Total | 50 | 60 |
How to Prepare for the IMO?
If a student is looking to compete in this challenging competition, it is important to start preparing early and effectively. Here are a few things you can do to prepare:
- Understand the syllabus: The first step in preparing for the IMO exam is familiarising yourself with the syllabus. The exam covers a wide range of topics in mathematics (CBSE/ISCE/State board syllabus), so make sure to review the syllabus and create a study plan based on the topics covered.
- Take a strong math curriculum in school: Since the IMO covers a wide range of mathematical topics, it is important to have a strong foundation in math. If you are not taking a challenging math curriculum in school, consider enrolling in additional math classes or tutoring. The best way to prepare for the IMO is to practice solving math problems.
- Create a study schedule: To prepare effectively, create a study schedule and adhere to it. Allocate specific time each day for studying mathematics concepts and practicing them. Ensure you cover all the topics in the syllabus and revise regularly to reinforce your understanding.
- Practice previous year’s question papers: One of the best ways to prepare for the IMO exam is to practice previous year’s question papers. This will help you to understand the exam pattern, the types of questions asked, and the level of difficulty. Try to solve as many papers as possible to improve your problem-solving skills and time management.
- Practice Sample Papers: Another great way to prepare is by practicing IMO sample papers regularly. This will help you familiarize yourself with the exam format, understand the types of questions asked, and improve your time management skills. Make it a point to solve at least one sample paper each day and analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement.
- Seek Guidance: If you are facing difficulties in preparing, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from teachers, mentors, or online tutors. They can provide you with additional study material, clarify your doubts, and offer valuable insights on how to approach the exam effectively. Joining coaching classes or online courses can also help you in preparing for the exam more efficiently.
- Take online mock tests: Online mock tests are a great way to assess your preparation and identify areas for improvement. Several platforms offer mock tests for the IMO exam. Take these tests regularly to gauge your performance and work on your weaknesses.
IMO Syllabus
It is very important to know the IMO syllabus before attempting the exam. The syllabus for each class in the Science Olympiad is different. Students can check the IMO syllabus in the table below.
| Class | NSO Syllabus |
| Class 1 | Section 1: Patterns, Odd One Out, Measuring Units, Geometrical Shapes, Spatial Understanding, Grouping of Figures, Analogy, Ranking Test, Problems based on Figures.
Section 2: Numerals, Number Names, Number Sense (2-digit numbers), Addition, Subtraction, Lengths, Weights and Comparisons, Time, Money, Geometrical Shapes and Solids. Section 3: Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4: Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section 2. |
| Class 2 | Section 1 : Patterns, Odd One Out, Measuring Units, Geometrical Shapes, Analogy, Ranking Test, Grouping of Figures, Embedded Figures, Coding-Decoding.
Section 2 : Numerals, Number Names, Number Sense (3-digit numbers), Computation Operations, Length, Weight, Capacity, Time, Temperature, Money, Lines, Shapes and Solids, Pictographs, Patterns. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 3 | Section 1 : Patterns, Analogy and Classification, Alphabet Test, Coding-Decoding, Ranking Test, Grouping of Figures and Figure Matrix, Mirror Images, Geometrical Shapes, Embedded Figures, Possible Combinations, Clock and Calendar.
Section 2 : Numerals, Number Names, Number Sense (4-digit numbers), Computation Operations, Fractions, Length, Weight, Capacity, Temperature, Time, Money, Geometry, Data Handling. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 4 | Section 1 : Patterns, Alphabet Test, Coding-Decoding, Ranking Test, Mirror Images, Geometrical Shapes and Solids, Embedded Figures, Direction Sense Test, Possible Combinations, Analogy and Classification, Clock and Calendar.
Section 2 : Numerals, Number Names, Number Sense (more than 4-digit numbers), Computation Operations, Fractions, Length, Weight, Capacity, Time, Money, Geometry, Perimeter of Various Shapes, Symmetry, Conversions, Data Handling. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 5 | Section 1 : Patterns, Analogy, Classification, Geometrical Shapes, Mirror and Water Images, Direction Sense Test, Ranking Test, Alphabet Test, Logical Sequence of Words, Puzzle Test, Coding-Decoding, Clock and Calendar.
Section 2 : Numerals, Number Names, Number Sense (7 and 8 digit numbers), Computation Operations, Fractions and Decimals, Measurement of Length, Weight, Capacity, Time, Temperature and Money, Conversions, Angles, Perimeter of Various Shapes & Area of Rectangle and Square, Symmetry, Data Handling. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section-2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section-2. |
| Class 6 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Patterns in Mathematics, Lines and Angles, Number Play, Data Handling and Presentation, Prime Time, Perimeter and Area, Fractions, Playing with Constructions, Symmetry, The Other Side of Zero. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 7 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Integers, Fractions and Decimals, Exponents and Powers, Algebraic Expressions, Simple Equations, Lines and Angles, Comparing Quantities, The Triangle and its Properties, Symmetry, Rational Numbers, Perimeter and Area, Data Handling, Visualising Solid Shapes. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 8 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Rational Numbers, Squares and Square Roots, Cubes and Cube Roots, Exponents and Powers, Comparing Quantities, Algebraic Expressions, Linear Equations in One Variable, Understanding Quadrilaterals, Mensuration, Data Handling, Direct and Inverse Proportions, Factorisation, Introduction to Graphs. Section 3 : Syllabus as per Section–2. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 9 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Number Systems, Polynomials, Coordinate Geometry, Linear Equations in Two Variables, Introduction to Euclid’s Geometry, Lines and Angles, Triangles, Quadrilaterals, Circles, Heron’s Formula, Surface Areas and Volumes, Statistics. Section 3 : The syllabus of this section will be based on the syllabus of Mathematical Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 10 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Real Numbers, Polynomials, Pair of Linear Equations in Two Variables, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Progressions, Triangles, Coordinate Geometry, Introduction to Trigonometry, Some Applications of Trigonometry, Circles, Areas Related to Circles, Surface Areas and Volumes, Statistics, Probability. Section 3 : The syllabus of this section will be based on the syllabus of Mathematical Reasoning and Quantitative Aptitude. Section 4 : Higher Order Thinking Questions – Syllabus as per Section–2. |
| Class 11 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Sets, Relations and Functions, Logarithms, Complex Numbers, Linear Inequalities, Sequences and Series, Trigonometry, Straight Lines, Conic Sections, Permutations and Combinations, Binomial Theorem, Statistics, Limits and Derivatives, Probability, Introduction to 3-D Geometry. OR Section 2 : Numbers, Quantification, Numerical Applications, Sets, Relations and Functions, Sequences and Series, Permutations and Combinations, Mathematical Reasoning, Limits, Continuity and Differentiability, Probability, Descriptive Statistics, Basics of Financial Mathematics, Straight Lines, Circles, Parabola. Section 3 : The syllabus of this section will be based on the syllabus of Quantitative Aptitude. Section 4 : Sets, Relations and Functions, Sequences and Series, Permutations and Combinations, Limits and Derivatives, Straight Lines, Circles, Parabola, Probability. |
| Class 12 | Section 1 : Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.
Section 2 : Relations and Functions, Inverse Trigonometric Functions, Matrices and Determinants, Continuity and Differentiability, Application of Derivatives, Integrals, Application of Integrals, Differential Equations, Vector Algebra, Three Dimensional Geometry, Probability, Linear Programming. OR Section 2 : Numbers, Quantification, Numerical Applications, Solutions of Simultaneous Linear Equations, Matrices, Determinants, Application of Derivatives, Integration, Application of Integrations, Differential Equations, Probability, Inferential Statistics, Index numbers, Time-based data, Financial Mathematics, Linear Programming. Section 3 : The syllabus of this section will be based on the syllabus of Quantitative Aptitude. Section 4 : Matrices, Determinants, Application of Derivatives, Integration, Application of Integrations, Differential Equations, Linear Programming, Probability. |
IMO Sample Papers
Students who wish to appear for the IMO 2025-26 exam should download the sample question papers to understand the type of questions asked. Below are the IMO 2025-26 sample question papers for Classes 1 to 12.
| Particulars | Direct PDF Links |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 1 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 2 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 3 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 4 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 5 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 6 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 7 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 8 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 9 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 10 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 11 | Click Here |
| IMO Sample Paper for Class 12 | Click Here |
How to Check IMO Results?
International Mathematics Olympiad results are released within 6 to 8 weeks after the exam. Since the level 1 exams for IMO 2025-26 will be held in November and December 2025, the results are expected to be announced in January 2026. Here is the detailed step of how you can check your results:
Step 1: Visit the official result page of SOF.
Step 2: Select IMO from the menu present at the top of the homepage.
Step 3: Click on “Results” from the drop down menu that pops up.
Step 4: The following page will appear.
Step 5: First, select the appropriate olympiad.
Step 6: Fill in your roll number. Additionally, don’t forget the Captcha verification.
Step 7: Click on “View Results” to access your IMO results.
IMO Awards 2025-26
For the academic year 2024–25, the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) allocated over ₹24 crores towards awards, scholarships, gifts, and recognitions. Top-performing students in Level 1 and Level 2 exams will be awarded prizes at the zonal, district and international levels. Schools that exhibit strong performance will also be recognized. The following awards and scholarships will be presented to the winners of the SOF International Mathematics Olympiad scheduled for the academic year 2025–26.
International awards will be provided to 2nd level winners from Class 3 to Class 12:
| AT INTERNATIONAL LEVEL | |
| Rank | Scholarships |
| 1st | Rs.50,000/- Each + International Gold Medal* + Certificate of Outstanding Performance |
| 2nd | Rs.25,000/- Each + International Silver Medal* + Certificate of Outstanding Performance |
| 3rd | Rs.10,000/- Each + International Bronze Medal* + Certificate of Outstanding Performance |
Note: If two or more students secure the same international rank, the distribution of cash awards or scholarships will be handled as follows:
- If up to 10 students share the same rank, the total award or scholarship amount for that rank will be divided equally among them. Additionally, each student will receive a medal (as per the applicable category) and a certificate.
- If 11 or more students share the same rank, instead of a cash award or scholarship, each student will receive a gift voucher or scholarship worth ₹1,000, along with a medal (in the applicable category) and a certificate.
Zonal awards will be provided to 2nd level winners from class 3 to class 12:
| AT ZONAL LEVEL | |
| Rank | Scholarships |
| 1st | Rs 5000/- Each + Zonal Gold Medal*+ Certificate of Zonal Excellence |
| 2nd | Rs 2500/- Each + Zonal Silver Medal*+ Certificate of Zonal Excellence |
| 3rd | Rs 1000/- Each + Zonal Bronze Medal*+ Certificate of Zonal Excellence |
| 4th to 10th | Gifts worth Rs 500/- Each + Certificate of Zonal Excellence |
| 11th to 25th | Certificate of Zonal Excellence |
| Rank 26+ | Merit Certificate |
Note: In the event that two or more students secure the same zonal rank, the distribution of cash awards or scholarships will be managed as follows:
- If up to 5 students share the same rank, the total award or scholarship amount for that rank will be equally divided among them. Each student will also receive a medal (as per the applicable category) and a certificate.
- If 6 or more students share the same rank, instead of a cash award or scholarship, each student will be given a gift voucher or scholarship worth ₹1,000, along with a medal (in the applicable category) and a certificate.
Awards for Level 1 performance:
| Rank | Awards | Total number of awards |
| 1 to 25 | Medal of Distinction + Certificate of Distinction | 240 |
| 26 and above | Certificate of Participation | All |
Awards for schools:
Top-performing schools are also felicitated with various awards. Awards for principals are based on the cumulative performance of their schools across all exams, whereas awards for teachers are based on the school’s performance in the SOF IMO. The tables below provide detailed information about the various awards available for schools participating in the Olympiad.
| At international level | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Award | |
| Best Principal | Rs 25000/- + Citation + Trophy | |
| Best Teacher | Rs 10000/- + Citation + Trophy | |
| At zonal level | ||
| Category | Award | |
| Best Principal | Rs 10000/- +Citation + Trophy | |
| Best Teacher | Rs 5000/- Citation + Trophy | |
| At district level | ||
| Category | Award | |
| Best Principal | Rs 5100/- + Citation + Trophy | |
| Best Teacher | Rs 1000/- + Citation + Trophy | |
FAQs
What kind of thinking skills does the SOF IMO aim to develop beyond textbook mathematics?
SOF IMO promotes logical reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking. It encourages students to apply mathematical concepts creatively and analytically, beyond memorizing formulas.
Can participating in SOF IMO really help with competitive exams like JEE, SAT, or Olympiads later on?
Yes, the skills gained—analytical thinking, time management, and conceptual clarity—are highly transferable to exams like JEE, SAT, and national/international Olympiads.
How can students balance preparation for IMO with regular school studies?
Since the IMO syllabus overlaps with school curricula, students can integrate Olympiad problems into their regular study routine, making preparation seamless and enhancing their academic grasp.
How should a student handle unfamiliar or tricky questions during the exam?
Stay calm, read the question carefully, and rephrase it if needed for clarity. If the solution isn't obvious, move on and revisit the question later to manage time effectively.
What are some lesser-known benefits of participating in the SOF IMO beyond winning medals or certificates?
Participation fosters resilience, boosts self-confidence, cultivates a growth mindset, and often sparks a lasting interest in mathematics, helping students develop both academically and personally.