Contests 🎖️ Medals

56th International Physics Olympiad IPhO 2026

IPhO Foundation

📅 15 May 2026 📍 Colombia 🏷️ Paid
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📌 About the Event

The International Physics Olympiad is the most prestigious international physics competition for secondary school students. The main aim of IPhO is to test the highest level of knowledge, critical thinking, problem solving, proper practices of presentation and analysis, and hands-on skills in theoretical and experimental physics. The 56th IPhO brings together the brightest young physicists from around the world in the vibrant city of Bucaramanga, Colombia, for a celebration of science, culture, and global friendship. First held in 1967, IPhO today draws national teams from over 80 countries across five continents and India has consistently been among its most decorated participants.

ℹ️ Event Details

  • Category: Physics Olympiad, International Science Competition, School Level
  • Organizer: IPhO Foundation, hosted by Colombia for the 2026 edition
  • Eligibility: Secondary school students under 20 years of age as of June 30, 2026, who have not commenced university studies. Must be a citizen or permanent resident of the country they represent.
  • Team Size: Each participating country sends a maximum of 5 students and 2 delegation leaders
  • Effort Level: Very High, two gruelling five hour examinations on separate days
  • Submission Type: In person written theoretical exam and in person experimental exam
  • Mode: In person only, Bucaramanga, Colombia

📅 Important Dates

  • January 30, 2026: Dispatch of invitation letters to participating countries
  • February 20, 2026: Pre registration opens
  • March 15, 2026: Pre registration deadline
  • March 30, 2026: Full registration opens
  • May 15, 2026: Registration deadline
  • July 4, 2026: Arrival of all delegations in Bucaramanga, Colombia
  • July 5, 2026: Opening ceremony

🥇 Medal and Award Distribution

In a typical IPhO with 400 contestants, this translates roughly to:

  • Gold Medal: approximately 32 students
  • Silver Medal: approximately 68 students
  • Bronze Medal: approximately 100 students
  • Honourable Mention: approximately 68 students

🎯 What You Will Experience Over 9 Days

  • Arrive in Bucaramanga and attend the grand opening ceremony alongside delegations from 80+ countries
  • Sit for the 5 hour theoretical examination with three complex physics problems requiring creative, multi concept solutions
  • Enjoy a full rest day with cultural excursions exploring Bucaramanga’s colonial heritage, paragliding sites, and botanical gardens
  • Sit for the 5 hour experimental examination testing hands on laboratory skills, data analysis, and measurement accuracy
  • Attend the moderation sessions where your delegation leaders review grading with the organizing committee

🔗 Official Links