The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC) is an annual online competition open to high school and university students from all countries. Participants solve challenging astronomy and astrophysics problems spanning a wide range of topics and difficulty levels.
The competition runs in three rounds: the Qualification Round (free to enter), the Pre-Final Round (13 EUR fee, financial aid available), and the Final Round for top performers. Students compete in one of three age categories — Junior (≤10th grade, under 16), Youth (11th–13th grade, under 19), or Senior (university level). The Qualification Round typically closes in April each year.
Top 3 winners share awards worth 2,500 USD, including cash prizes and telescopes signed by astronaut Frank De Winne and Nobel Prize laureates. All participants receive a certificate, and the best student from each country earns a national award.