Different Stages of Mathematical Olympiad and Rewards

Stage - 1: IOQM (Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics) (Previously PRMO)

Mathematics Teachers’ Association (India) Conducts the IOQM (formerly PRMO)
IOQM is a National-level screening test
Exam Pattern: Objective type (integer answers 00–99); 30 questions in 3 hours
Recognition & Awards:
- Merit certificates awarded to top performers (Top ~10%)
- Eligibility for RMO

HBCSE (Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, TIFR): Conducts RMO, INMO, IMOTC, and handles international participation.

NBHM – National Board for Higher Mathematics: Provides financial support, policy, and oversight

Stage - 2: RMO (Regional Mathematical Olympiad)

RMO is a Regional-level Selection Exam.
Exam Pattern: Descriptive exam; 6 proof-based questions in 3 hours
Recognition & Awards: Selection to INMO (Top 30–35 students per region + 1 top-performing girl from each region) - Certificates of merit

Stage - 3: INMO (Indian National Mathematical Olympiad)

INMO is the national‑level exam used to select students for the training camp.
Exam Pattern: Descriptive type exam, 8 questions in 3 hours
Recognition & Awards:
- Chance to attend IMOTC -
- Cash prizes from NBHM for top students -
- Direct admission offers from institutes like ISI Kolkata, CMI Chennai

Stage - 4: IMOTC (International Mathematical Olympiad Training Camp)

Intensive 1-month residential training; Top 35–40 students from INMO participate
Recognition & Awards:
- Rigorous training in advanced mathematics -
- Stipends/Scholarships provided by NBHM -
- Opportunity to qualify for IMO team

Stage - 5: Pre-Departure Camp

Stage - 6: IMO (International Mathematical Olympiad)

The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is an annual international competition for high school students and is organized by the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) Advisory Board
Global competition with participation from over 100 countries
Recognition & Awards:
- Special quotas/admissions in IISc, ISI, CMI, and IITs -
- Research internships at top Indian and international institutions -
- Government scholarships & fellowships

Special Recognitions

Top Girl Selection: To encourage girls in mathematics, the top-performing girl in each region is directly selected for the next stage (RMO or INMO), even if her score is below the cutoff.
Certificates of Merit: All students qualifying for RMO, INMO, and IMOTC receive nationally recognized certificates.
Media Recognition: IMO medallists often get featured in national newspapers, media outlets, and academic circles.
Lifetime Academic Benefits: Olympiad students get preference in top universities, scholarships, research programs, and international academic collaboration.

Complete IOQM (PRMO) 2025 Exam Guide