The International Research Olympiad (IRO), is a competition representing 45+ countries' top youth researchers. The IRO is an olympiad-style competition dedicated solely to scientific research and aims to promote essential skills for science research among young minds. The IRO tests skills related to critical thinking, analytical reasoning, science communication, and more.
The competition has three phases:
- Opens: The "Opens" round is a comprehensive assessment, encompassing diverse elements such as analyzing research papers, interpreting scientific data, and tackling question formation and inquiry. This stage aims to test participants’ analytical skills and critical thinking. The Opens round will consist mostly of multiple-choice questions and answers. Registered students will receive information about their login information for accessing the IRO Open Exam. The Open exam round is hosted virtually, via a portal on our website. Students around the world will be able to participate in this round.
- Semifinals: The top 10% of participants will advance to the semifinals from the Open examinations. The virtual semifinals elevate the challenge of introducing free-response questions judged by qualified researchers delving deeper into participants' ability to articulate and apply their understanding of scientific concepts.
- Finals: The pinnacle of the competition is finals, where the top 15 participants will engage in intense, in-person competition for the coveted gold, silver, and bronze medals in the IRO. Additional sponsor prizes, media opportunities, and recognition will be awarded. The exam content has been designed, reviewed, and validated by our team, student board of advisors, and board of advisors.
Location(s)
- Opens and Semifinals: Remote
- Finals: Harvard Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts
Schedule
- Opens: March 1, 2025
- Semifinals: April 5, 2025
- Finals: June 6-8, 2025
Cost/Compensation
- $25 registration fee
Eligibility Requirements
- Be enrolled in grades 6-12 or an equivalent homeschool program. This includes both traditional public and private high schools, as well as accredited online programs.
Deadline
- February 25, 2025
Application or Entry Requirements
- Completed online registration form
Notifications of Decisions
Financial Aid Details
Other Dates to Keep in Mind
Have other questions?
The International Research Olympiad (IRO) is an academic competition designed for student researchers. IRO is dedicated to honing the analytical and critical thinking skills that are essential in scientific exploration. The IRO fosters a culture of rigorous research and skill-building, not just memorizing formulae. The practical applications of knowledge and big-picture thinking are tested in the annual IRO examinations, allowing students to walk away with a deeper passion for scientific inquiry.
