International competitions, olympiads for students

---

Greetings everyone!
I'm planning for the upcoming year, and I want my students to participate in competitions at various levels. It would be fantastic if you could share some information about competitions they can participate in, and also share your experiences participating in these events. Let's create a list of competitions together!

Hello Denis
Good initiative, but the subject of the competition will be on computer science, or the integration of ICT in the learning process or what, dear colleague?
Best Regards from Tunisia
Chokri

The first competition I’d like to introduce here is the GLOBAL STUDENT PRIZE. This year's deadline has passed, but you can start planning for next year. (By the way, there’s a similar prize for teachers called the GLOBAL TEACHER PRIZE.)

Link: https://globalteacherprize.org/pages/globalstudentprize

• Age: Must be at least sixteen (16) years old at the time of entry.
• Student status: Must currently be a student enrolled in an academic institution or training and skills program (full-time, part-time, or online courses are eligible).
• Location: Open to students in every kind of school and, subject to local laws, in every country in the world.

How to Enter: Complete the online application form and follow the instructions on the Prize Platform.

Selection Criteria:

• Academic Achievement: Evidence of strong academic performance, including excellent grades, awards won, research published, and outstanding references.
• Impact on Peers: Demonstrated contributions to your student community, such as supporting other students, tutoring, mentoring, and participating in college access initiatives.
• Making a Difference: Evidence of positive impact on your community and beyond, through activities such as volunteering, providing free lessons, working with students in other countries, or advocating for social change.
• Overcoming the Odds: Demonstrating resilience and perseverance in overcoming significant barriers to education, such as health problems, socioeconomic disadvantage, discrimination, or family difficulties.
• Creativity and Innovation: Showcase creative endeavors in any field, including writing, art, music, technology, social entrepreneurship, or new ideas for connecting people.
• Fostering Global Citizens: Passion for global cooperation, demonstrated through collaboration with individuals in other countries, forging links between institutions, and promoting cultural understanding.

Next competition - Imagine Cup Junior is a global student challenge where teams of students develop technology-based solutions to real-world problems. It's divided into two age categories:

Link: https://imaginecup.microsoft.com/en-us/junior

Age Categories:

• AI for Good (ages 13-18): Students create concepts to address Microsoft's AI for Good initiatives. Teams of 2 to 6 students.
• Tech for Good (ages 5-12): Students focus on technology for good with lessons specifically designed for younger learners. Teams of 2 to 40 students.

Conditions:

• Team Leader: A Team Leader (over 18) registers and guides the team.
• Submission: Teams create a PowerPoint presentation outlining their concept.

@Denis-Kudaymetov

Hi Denis, hope everything is going well. Here are some international competitions for students that I found on the website. Hope you and your students could participate. These experiences are very important.

1. Bretton Woods Economics Competition
   Location: Varies annually

Cost: Free to nominal fee, depending on location

Eligibility: High school students worldwide

Application Deadline: Varies annually

Dates/Duration: Annually, typically a few days in spring or early summer

The Bretton Woods Economics Competition is an esteemed international event that challenges high school students to tackle pressing global economic issues. Participants engage in rigorous analysis and debate, developing and presenting their ideas on a variety of topics ranging from international finance to economic development and policy. This competition not only allows students to deepen their understanding of economics in a global context but also encourages critical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication. It's a fantastic platform for aspiring economists to connect with peers from around the world and gain exposure to the complexities of the global economic landscape.

2. International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Competition
   Location: Varies; often held in Europe or Asia

Cost: Participation fee required, plus travel expenses

Eligibility: High school teams with an adult supervisor

Application Deadline: Around February or March

Dates/Duration: The main event takes place in late October or early November

The International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Competition is a unique global event that invites high school students to dive into the world of synthetic biology. Teams collaborate under the guidance of mentors to design, build, and test genetically engineered systems using standard biological parts. The culmination of their hard work is presented at the Grand Jamboree, offering students a platform to showcase their innovative projects, network with the international scientific community, and contribute to solving real-world problems through synthetic biology. It's an incredible opportunity for young scientists to get hands-on experience in research and biotechnology, pushing the boundaries of creativity and science.

3. International Young Physicists’ Tournament
   Location: Budapest, Hungary for 2024 IYPT

Cost: Participation fee plus travel expenses

Eligibility: Teams of high school students

Application Deadline: Varies, typically in late winter or early spring

Dates/Duration: Annually, usually in July

The International Young Physicists' Tournament (IYPT), often referred to as the "Physics World Cup," is a prestigious global competition where teams of high school students tackle complex physics problems. Unlike traditional contests, the IYPT emphasizes collaborative problem-solving and critical thinking, as teams not only present their solutions but also engage in discussions and defend their findings against criticism from peers. This tournament is hosted in different countries each year, offering participants a unique opportunity to explore physics in depth, develop teamwork and communication skills, and connect with fellow young physicists from around the world.

4. World Robot Olympiad
   Location: Varies; recent events in Asia and Europe

Cost: Registration fee plus travel expenses

Eligibility: Teams of 2-3 students, up to 19 years old

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: Annually, with the final event typically in November

The World Robot Olympiad (WRO) is an international robotics competition that invites teams of young people to develop, design, and build robots to address challenges. This engaging contest emphasizes creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, as participants use their knowledge of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to compete in various categories tailored to different age groups, including high school students. The WRO fosters a hands-on approach to learning and innovation, providing a global platform for students to showcase their abilities in robotics and to connect with fellow robotics enthusiasts from around the world.

5. F1 in Schools STEM Challenge
   Location: The World Finals location varies; past events have been hosted in countries outside the U.S.

Cost: Varies; there are costs associated with building the car and traveling to competitions

Eligibility: Students aged 9-19, in teams of 3-6 members

Application Deadline: Varies by country

Dates/Duration: Annually, with the World Finals typically held towards the end of the year

The F1 in Schools STEM Challenge is an exciting global competition where students aged 9-19 form teams to design, analyze, manufacture, and race miniature Formula One cars. Utilizing professional-grade CAD/CAM software and engineering principles, teams are tasked with creating cars that are not only fast on the track but also aesthetically appealing and efficiently marketed. Beyond the engineering and racing aspects, students also delve into project management, teamwork, budgeting, and presentation skills. This comprehensive challenge mirrors the real-world processes of the Formula One racing world, offering students a unique, hands-on STEM learning experience while fostering an environment of competition, collaboration, and innovation.

6. World Scholar’s Cup
   Location: Regional and global rounds held in various countries outside the U.S.

Cost: Registration fee for teams.

Eligibility: Students of all ages, including high schoolers.

Application Deadline: Varies by regional round.

Dates/Duration: Annual cycle, culminating in the Tournament of Champions at Yale University

Note: while the final event is in the U.S., the competition is truly global with qualifying rounds worldwide.

The World Scholar's Cup is a global academic competition that encourages students to explore a broad range of subjects, from science and history to literature and art, all within the context of an annual theme. It's designed to be more than just a contest; it fosters a sense of global community, teamwork, and the joy of learning through collaborative events such as team debates, collaborative writing, and a quiz-style challenge known as the Scholar's Bowl. Participants, known as "scholars," also have the chance to engage with students from around the world, making it a culturally enriching experience that celebrates diversity and the pursuit of knowledge. The competition is known for its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere and its emphasis on empowering students to become confident in their abilities to discuss and analyze complex topics.

7. The Diamond Challenge
   Location: The summit is held outside the U.S., with virtual participation options.

Cost: Free to enter.

Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18 from any country.

Application Deadline: Typically in early winter.

Dates/Duration: Annual competition with submissions in winter and the summit in spring.

The Diamond Challenge is an innovative competition for high school entrepreneurs from around the globe. It offers students the opportunity to transform their entrepreneurial ideas into reality. Participants are tasked with developing a viable business concept, which they then present to a panel of judges. The challenge emphasizes the practical aspects of business planning, creativity, and strategic thinking, providing participants with invaluable feedback, mentorship, and the chance to win awards and scholarships. The Diamond Challenge not only cultivates young entrepreneurs' business acumen but also fosters leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, making it a comprehensive platform for aspiring business leaders.

8. Breakthrough Junior Challenge
   Location: Online submission; winners are recognized at the Breakthrough Prize ceremony.

Cost: Free to enter.

Eligibility: Students aged 13-18 from around the world.

Application Deadline: Typically in June.

Dates/Duration: Annually.

The Breakthrough Junior Challenge is a global competition that invites students aged 13-18 to share their passion for science and mathematics. Participants create short, imaginative videos that simplify complex scientific theories and concepts, making them accessible and engaging to a broader audience. The challenge encourages creativity, clarity of expression, and the ability to inspire through storytelling. Winners are recognized for their exceptional ability to communicate complex ideas in compelling ways and receive significant educational prizes, including scholarships and a grant for their school's science lab. It's a unique platform for young scientists and mathematicians to showcase their talents and potentially transform the way people understand the world around them.

9. International Environmental Project Olympiad (INEPO)
   Location: Various international locations, outside the U.S.

Cost: $499

Eligibility: High school students aged 14-19.

Application Deadline: Varies, generally in the winter months.

Dates/Duration: Typically in spring or early summer.

The International Environmental Project Olympiad (INEPO) is a prestigious competition that invites high school students from around the globe to present innovative solutions to environmental challenges. Participants work on projects that address issues in areas such as renewable energy, waste management, water conservation, and biodiversity, among others. The goal of INEPO is to foster a deeper understanding of environmental issues among young people and encourage them to apply scientific principles and creative thinking to real-world problems. Through their participation, students not only gain valuable research experience but also have the opportunity to share their ideas with an international community, promoting global collaboration and awareness of environmental sustainability.

10. The Conrad Challenge
    Location: Online, with the global summit held in various international locations.

Cost: $499 for finalists attending the summit.

Eligibility: Students aged 13-18 from around the world.

Application Deadline: Typically in the fall.

Dates/Duration: Annual cycle, with the summit in spring.

The Conrad Challenge is an annual, multi-phase innovation and entrepreneurship competition that encourages high school students worldwide to become entrepreneurial problem solvers, addressing pressing global challenges. Teams of 2-5 students, aged 13-18, collaborate to create sustainable solutions in categories such as aerospace, cyber-technology, health, and nutrition, among others. The challenge emphasizes the practical application of STEM concepts, creativity, and critical thinking, guiding students from idea conception to potential commercialization. Finalist teams are invited to the Innovation Summit, where they present their solutions to a panel of industry experts, competing for seed funding, patent support, and commercial opportunities. It's an exceptional platform for young innovators to turn their visions into reality and make a positive impact on the world.

Best of luck Denis, and others who interest.

Hugs from Puerto Rico,
Mr. Bryan

@Denis-Kudaymetov
it's a good interesting program......I hope I found teachers who are ready to hire

@Bousl2336873cb4 Thank you for your support, Chokri! Generally, I'm more interested in competitions related to CS and ICT specifically. However, I want to develop project-based learning in my school, so I'd be happy to see competitions in any field, as I will be suggesting them to my colleagues.

@BRYANb8875625e5 Thanks for sharing the list of competitions, Bryan. I really appreciate it. It would also be helpful if you knew of any online competitions. That would be a good starting point.

INFOMATRIX is an international computer-based project competition, born from a desire to unite the world's best IT students. There are 6 main categories: Robotics, Computer Programming, Computer Art, Applied Science Projects, Short Movie and Applied Maths Project.

Link: https://infomatrix.asia/
Presentation about categories: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1x0VQmN9KilpIdgcoT_-CB8ESisyF8pQTGAf4U7XFD-k/edit#slide=id.g28d316b3fc7_0_1

Upcoming events: World Scratch Coding Competition 2024

Link: https://www.ikcc.info/en/

• register and upload your projects between September 01-30, 2024
• the challenge/theme will be announced on September 01, 2024
• find out the winners on October 15, 2024

Hello Denis
Do you find any objection from your country's Ministry of Education if you commit to this type of learning "Objective by project" .........because with us in Tunisia we must limit ourselves to the official program of our ministry...
Best Regards from Tunisia
Chokri

@Denis-Kudaymetov

Sure, I will be searching for more information and will be great to share with you.
Best,
Mr. Bryan

@Bousl2336873cb4 Hi Chokri!
There have been no restrictions from the Ministry of Education so far. I am only confirming the training program with my Head of Secondary.

SOLVE REAL-WORLD CHALLENGES ON EARTH & IN SPACE

The NASA International Space Apps Challenge is a hackathon for coders, scientists, designers, storytellers, makers, technologists, and innovators around the world to come together and use open data from NASA and its Space Agency Partners to create solutions to challenges we face on Earth and in space.

The 2024 NASA Space Apps Challenge theme is "The Sun Touches Everything" in collaboration with NASA Heliophysics. This theme is in alignment with the Heliophysics Big Year, a global celebration of the Sun’s influence on Earth and the entire solar system, as declared by NASA.

Registrations open July 18.

Link: www.spaceappschallenge.org/

@Denis-Kudaymetov
Hello Denis,
The NASA Space apps is really interesting, thanks for sharing. I will implement in my classroom in the Science class to show how the sun touches everything. It is a concrete example of AR and VR, where students will be exposed to discovery learning.

What a splendid initiative, Denis. Taking part in/organizing Olympiads is a perfect leap forward, also to reflect on your learning trajectory and work on the areas improvement. Healthy competition for the best Practice and it has no boundaries. Now the become more scalable attracting wider participation.

Hello @Housna
I'm glad you found this post helpful! I plan on participating in all the competitions you listed this year. I'd be grateful if you could add any competitions that you know of. It would be great if you could share your experience participating in the NASA competition and others.

@Bilim Thanks, Bilim! I would be grateful if you could share your experience participating in international competitions, as well as links to any competitions you recommend.