Overview

SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) – India’s Premier School-Level Math Competition

The SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is a popular competitive exam conducted by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF) for school students across India and abroad. It’s designed to test and enhance mathematical reasoning, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills beyond the regular school syllabus. Open to students from Class 1 to 12, the exam is held annually in multiple levels, giving young learners a chance to compete at national and international platforms while sharpening their aptitude in mathematics.

The International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is conducted annually by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF).
It is one of the largest school-level mathematics competitions in the world, with participation from over 25 lakh students across India and 40+ countries.
The Olympiad is open to students from Classes 1 to 12, aiming to enhance their analytical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills.
The exam is conducted in two levels – Level 1 for all participants and Level 2 for top performers from Classes 3 to 12 at Level 1.
It is an offline exam conducted in schools with a total duration of 1 hour.
The number of questions varies by class: 35 questions for Classes 1–4 and 50 questions for Classes 5–12.
The paper consists of four sections: Logical Reasoning, Mathematical Reasoning, Everyday Mathematics, and an Achievers Section carrying higher weightage.
The exam is conducted in English and follows the syllabus of CBSE, ICSE/ISC, and State Boards.
Level 1 is typically held in October–November, and Level 2 in February–March.
Participants are ranked at school, zonal, and international levels, with separate ranking for each class.
Awards include medals, certificates, cash prizes, and trophies for top-performing students at various levels.
Schools with outstanding performance may also receive recognition from SOF.
The exam provides a detailed performance report, helping students identify their strengths and weaknesses in mathematics.
It serves as a foundation for higher-level competitive exams by building conceptual clarity and exam-taking skills.
Registrations are done through schools, and individual entries are not accepted directly by SOF.
Official details and updates are available on the SOF website: www.sofworld.org.

Level 1 (School‑based test) can be conducted by schools on one of three dates in 2025: 12 November, 28 November, or 12 December 2025 .

Level 2 dates are not yet finalized, but are expected to be scheduled in January–February 2026, with official confirmation due by January 2026 .

Levels of the SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO)

Level 1

Open to all students from Classes 1–12.
Conducted offline in schools.
1‑hour exam with 35 questions (Classes 1–4) and 50 questions (Classes 5–12).
Covers logical reasoning, maths concepts, real‑life applications, and achievers section.
2025 dates: 12th Nov, 28th Nov, or 12th Dec (school picks one).

Level 2

For top performers of Classes 3–12 from Level 1.
More challenging than Level 1, with tougher problems‑solving questions.
Conducted offline at selected centers.
Scheduled for Jan–Feb 2026 (exact date to be announced).
Decides final zonal and international rankings and top awards.

SOF IMO - International Mathematics Olympiad

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