IMO Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme 2025-26, Check Exam Structure

IMO 2025-26 Exam Pattern: The International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is one of the most prestigious school-level competitive exams in India, conducted by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF). It aims to test the mathematical aptitude and logical reasoning skills of students from Class 1 to Class 12. To succeed in this competitive exam, it is crucial for students and parents to understand the IMO 2025-26 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme thoroughly.

This article provides a detailed breakdown of the IMO exam pattern, section-wise weightage, marking scheme, and other key highlights to help you prepare strategically.

International Mathematics Olympiad Exam Pattern 2025-26 Overview

The IMO 2025-26 is held in two levels:

• Level 1: Open to all students from Class 1 to 12
• Level 2: Only for selected students from Class 3 to 12 who qualify Level 1

The Level 1 exam focuses on Mathematical Reasoning, Logical Reasoning, and Everyday Mathematics, along with a separate Achievers Section that includes higher-order thinking questions.

IMO Exam Pattern 2025-26 Highlights

IMO 2025-26 Exam Pattern – Class-Wise Structure

The IMO Level 1 exam is divided into four sections:

• Logical Reasoning
• Mathematical Reasoning
• Everyday Mathematics
• Achievers Section

Let’s look at the class-wise exam pattern and marking scheme in detail.

IMO Exam Pattern for Classes 1 to 4

Key Points:

• Total Duration: 60 Minutes
• Total Marks: 40
• The Achievers Section contains higher-order thinking questions that carry double the marks.

IMO Exam Pattern for Classes 5 to 10

Key Points:

• Total Duration: 60 Minutes
• Total Marks: 60
• More weightage is given to Mathematical Reasoning and Achievers Section.

IMO Exam Pattern for Classes 11 and 12

Key Points:

• The pattern is similar to Classes 5–10 but with more emphasis on Applied Mathematics.
• Achievers Section plays a crucial role in determining merit.

IMO Marking Scheme 2025-26

The marking scheme differs slightly based on the class group. Here's a summary:

Note: There is no negative marking in any of the sections.

IMO Exam 2025-26 Section-Wise Importance

1. Logical Reasoning

This section tests analytical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills.

Topics Include:

• Series Completion
• Coding-Decoding
• Analogy
• Blood Relations
• Direction Sense Test

Tip: Practice sample papers to improve speed and accuracy.

2. Mathematical Reasoning / Applied Mathematics

This is the core mathematics section based on school curriculum and beyond.

Topics Include:

• Number Systems
• Algebra
• Geometry
• Arithmetic
• Trigonometry (for higher classes)

Tip: Focus on conceptual clarity and application-based questions.

3. Everyday Mathematics

This section connects maths to real-life situations.

Topics Include:

• Profit and Loss
• Time and Work
• Time-Speed-Distance
• Mensuration
• Money and Measurement

Tip: Relate topics to daily life problems to gain better understanding.

4. Achievers Section

This section includes high-difficulty-level questions meant to challenge top-performing students.

Focus Areas:

• Complex reasoning problems
• Multi-concept questions
• Higher-order thinking skills

Tip: Solve Olympiad-level books and advanced reasoning problems to gain an edge.

Importance of Knowing the IMO Exam Pattern

Understanding the exam pattern gives students a competitive edge:

• Helps in time management during the exam.
• Allows smart preparation based on weightage.
• Boosts confidence through structured learning.
• Enhances the ability to target high-scoring sections, especially the Achievers Section.

Conclusion

The IMO 2025-26 Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme provides a comprehensive roadmap for students preparing for one of the most competitive Olympiads in the country. With the right strategy, consistent practice, and a clear understanding of the exam structure, students can aim for top ranks and even win scholarships or medals.

Parents and educators should also familiarize themselves with the exam format to guide students effectively in their Olympiad journey. Start early, solve previous year papers, and focus on conceptual understanding to ace the IMO 2025-26.

IMO Exam Pattern 2025-26 FAQs

Q1. Is the IMO exam pattern the same for all classes?No. The pattern varies slightly based on the class. Answer: Classes 1–4 have 35 questions, while Classes 5–12 have 50 questions. The marking scheme and difficulty level also vary accordingly.

Q2. Is there negative marking in IMO 2025-26?
Answer: No. There is no negative marking in the IMO exam.

Q3. What is the duration of the exam?
Answer: The exam duration is 60 minutes for all classes.

Q4. How many levels are there in IMO?
Answer: There are two levels:

• Level 1: For all students from Class 1 to 12
• Level 2: For students of Class 3 to 12 who qualify Level 1

Q5. Is the Achievers Section important?
Answer: Yes, the Achievers Section carries higher marks per question and significantly influences rankings and scholarships.