International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC) 2026

The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC) is an exciting global science competition that invites students from around the world to test their knowledge and creativity in astronomy and astrophysics. With thousands of participants since 2019, IAAC has become a platform for young learners to challenge themselves, gain recognition, and win prestigious awards.

  Who Can Participate?

IAAC is open to high school and university students worldwide. Participants are divided into three age groups:

• Junior: 10th Grade and below (under 16 years old)
• Youth: 11th to 13th Grade (under 19 years old)
• Senior: 1st Year College/University and higher (19 years and above)

Requirements:

• Creativity and open-mindedness to solve problems
• Fluency in English (recommended, as problems may involve real-world research material)
• Stable internet connection for online submissions

  Prizes and Awards

IAAC offers participants the chance to win certificates, cash prizes, and telescopes signed by Nobel Prize laureates and astronauts.

• Top Awards: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes worth up to 1500 USD
• Special Signatures: Telescopes signed by astronaut Frank De Winne and Nobel Prize laureates François Englert, Gerard ’t Hooft, Michel Mayor, and Didier Queloz
• Certificates: All participants receive certificates of participation
• National Awards: Best participants from each country are honored with national certificates
• Special Recognition: Digital submissions using professional tools (e.g., TeX) receive honorary notes on certificates

 Competition Rounds

The IAAC consists of three main rounds:

1. Qualification Round

• Five astronomy problems covering diverse topics and difficulty levels
• Each problem is worth 5 points
• Minimum points required to qualify:
  • Junior: 12 points
  • Youth: 14 points
  • Senior: 17 points
• Deadline: 17 April 2026, 23:59 UTC+0
• Successful participants receive certificates

2. Pre-Final Round

• Six problems:
  • 2 Basic (4 points each)
  • 2 Advanced (6 points each)
  • 2 Research (8 points each, requiring reading scientific papers)
• Duration: 5 days (29 May – 2 June 2026)
• Registration cost: 13 EUR (financial aid available)

3. Final Round

• Online multiple-choice exam with 20 questions
• Conducted in schools under teacher supervision OR via self-recorded video submission
• Covers astronomy knowledge and content from previous rounds
• Awards given to finalists with the highest scores

  For Teachers and Schools

IAAC is not just for students, it also empowers teachers and schools:

• Extracurricular Opportunity: Teachers can integrate IAAC problems into homework or projects
• Resources Provided: Flyers, posters, training materials, and problem sets
• Awards for Schools: Institutions with multiple participants and strong performance receive special honors
• Teacher Accounts: Dedicated accounts allow teachers to:
  • View student results and reports
  • Cover group registration costs
  • Supervise Final Round exams

  Training and Resources

IAAC provides a wide range of educational materials to support participants and teachers:

• Problem sets from previous years
• Lecture notes, videos, and presentations
• Flyers and posters for promotion
• Classroom-ready resources for science education

 Ambassador Program

Students can also become IAAC Ambassadors, representing the competition in their schools, universities, and communities.

Responsibilities include:

• Promoting astronomy through workshops and outreach activities
• Building local astronomy groups
• Encouraging participation in IAAC
• Supporting students with guidance and resources

Benefits for Ambassadors:

• Official IAAC Ambassador Certificate
• Career and leadership experience
• Priority consideration for financial aid
• Recognition on IAAC’s website and social media
• Eligibility for Ambassador Awards and exclusive rewards

Application Process:

• Stage 1: Submit application form, CV, transcript, and motivation letter
• Stage 2: Provide introduction video and solve a short set of astronomy problems

  Key Deadlines

• Qualification Round Submission: 17 April 2026
• Pre-Final Round: 29 May – 2 June 2026
• Final Round Exam: 30 June 2026
• Final Results Announcement: 6 July 2026

  Why Participate in IAAC?

• Opportunity to explore astronomy beyond the school curriculum
• Chance to win international recognition and prestigious awards
• Access to a global network of students, teachers, and ambassadors
• Development of problem-solving, research, and scientific skills
• Inspiration to pursue careers in science, technology, and space exploration

The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC) is  a gateway to discovery, learning, and global collaboration. Whether you are a student eager to challenge yourself, a teacher looking to inspire your class, or an ambassador ready to promote science, IAAC offers a unique platform to shine.

Submit your solutions, join the global community, and take your first step toward the stars!