IMO  Eligibility Criteria 2025–26 (Class 6 to 12)

IMO Eligibility Criteria 2025-26: The International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is one of the most popular school-level competitive exams conducted by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF). Students from Class 1 to 12 are eligible to participate, but this article focuses specifically on the IMO 2025–26 eligibility criteria for students of Class 6 to 12. Whether you’re a student, parent, or teacher, understanding the eligibility guidelines, exam levels, and registration process will help in making informed decisions. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help students of Classes 6 to 12 navigate the IMO 2025–26.

What is IMO?

The International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is organized by SOF (Science Olympiad Foundation) every year to encourage logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and mathematical problem-solving among students. The exam is held in two levels:

• Level 1: Open to all students from Class 1 to 12.
• Level 2: For selected students from Class 3 to 12 based on performance in Level 1.

IMO 2025–26 Exam Overview

Eligibility Criteria for IMO 2025–26 (Class 6 to 12)

Students from Class 6 to Class 12 are eligible to appear for the IMO 2025–26 Level 1 exam if:

• They are enrolled in a school that is recognized by SOF.
• The school is registered with SOF to conduct Olympiad exams.
• There is no minimum percentage or marks required in school exams.
• Students from all education boards (CBSE, ICSE, State Boards, etc.) are eligible.

Note: Students can only participate through their respective schools. Direct individual registrations are not accepted.

IMO Class-wise Eligibility 2025–26

Here’s a breakdown of eligibility details for each class from Class 6 to Class 12:

IMO 2025–26 Level 2 Eligibility Criteria

The Level 2 exam is only for students from Classes 3 to 12 who qualify the Level 1 exam. The eligibility to appear in Level 2 is based on:

• Top 5% of students from each class who appeared for Level 1.
• Top 25 rank holders from each zone and class.
• School toppers from each class (minimum 10 students must have appeared from the class and scored 50% or more marks).

Registration Process for IMO 2025–26 (Class 6 to 12)

Students cannot register individually. The registration process is coordinated by schools. Here’s how it works:

Steps for Registration

1. School Registration: The school must register with SOF to conduct Olympiads.
2. Student Enrollment: Interested students submit the registration fee and form via the school.
3. Roll Number Generation: SOF provides roll numbers to the school.
4. Exam Center: Usually the student’s school is the exam center.

Registration Fees

IMO 2025–26 Exam Dates (Tentative)

The Level 1 IMO exam will be held on three different dates. Schools can choose any one date:

Level 2 will tentatively be conducted in February 2026 for qualified students.

IMO 2025–26 Exam Pattern (Class 6 to 12)

The IMO exam pattern differs slightly for different class ranges. Here's the pattern for Class 6 to 12:

Key Benefits of Participating in IMO (Class 6–12)

• Enhances problem-solving and analytical skills
• Prepares students for future competitive exams
• Offers certificates, medals, and scholarships
• Provides national and international recognition

How to Prepare for IMO 2025–26?

1. Understand the Syllabus

Focus on the school syllabus prescribed for Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, and Applied Maths (for higher classes). Use SOF’s official syllabus PDF as reference.

2. Practice Sample Papers

Use previous year papers, mock tests, and practice books. Many publishers offer specialized IMO guides.

3. Focus on Time Management

Since the exam is time-bound (60 minutes), practice solving MCQs quickly and accurately.

4. Work on Reasoning

Many students overlook the Logical Reasoning section. Allocate daily practice time to this area.

5. Take Online Practice Tests

Websites and apps offer timed tests for IMO preparation, helping students get familiar with the exam pattern.

Rewards and Recognition for Class 6 to 12

• Medals and Certificates at school, zonal, and international levels.
• Cash awards and gifts for top rank holders.
• Zonal and international rankings for top performers.
• SOF also issues Performance Reports for detailed analysis.

IMO Contact and Official Information

For more details on eligibility, exam dates, and preparation, students or schools may contact:

• Website: https://sofworld.org
• Email: info@sofworld.org
• Contact Number: +91-9958603451

Conclusion

Participating in the IMO 2025–26 is a great opportunity for students from Class 6 to 12 to sharpen their mathematical skills and compete at an international level. The eligibility is simple – just be enrolled in a recognized school and register through it. With proper preparation and a strategic approach, students can perform well and earn national recognition.

IMO Eligibility Criteria 2025-26 FAQs

Q1. Who is eligible to appear for the IMO 2025–26 exam?
Answer: All students from Class 1 to Class 12 studying in a school recognized by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) are eligible to appear for Level 1 of the IMO 2025–26. For Level 2, only selected students from Class 3 to 12 who qualify in Level 1 are eligible.

Q2. Can students register individually for the IMO exam?
Answer: No, individual registrations are not allowed. Students must register through their respective schools, which must be affiliated or registered with SOF. The school coordinates the registration and examination process.

Q3. Is there any minimum percentage or school marks required to participate in IMO?
Answer: No, there is no minimum academic percentage or school exam score required to participate in IMO. All interested students from eligible classes can appear for the exam regardless of their academic performance.

Q4. How can students from Class 6 to 12 qualify for Level 2 of IMO?
Answer: Students from Class 6 to 12 can qualify for Level 2 of IMO if they meet any of the following criteria in Level 1:

• Rank among the top 5% of candidates in their class at the national level.
• Be among the top 25 rank holders in their zone.
• Be a class topper in the school, with at least 10 students from the class and a score of 50% or more.

Q5. Can students from ICSE, CBSE, and State Boards all apply for the IMO 2025–26?
Answer: Yes, students from all recognized boards such as CBSE, ICSE, and State Boards are eligible to apply for IMO 2025–26, as long as they are enrolled in a school that is affiliated with SOF.