The International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA) is an annual astronomy and astrophysics competition for high school students. Its main goal is to promote interest in Astronomy and related STEM subjects, especially through the general education of young people, and to enhance international contacts among different countries in promoting Astronomy and Astrophysics in schools. It aims to encourage bright high-school students to study astronomy at the university level.
International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics
International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA)
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About the Program
Eligibility
Students must not complete 20 years of age before July 1st in the year of the competition and must not complete their high school education (grade 12) before January 1st in the year of the competition. There is no minimum age or grade restriction. Must not complete 20 years of age before July 1st in the year of the competition. Must not complete high school education (grade 12) before January 1st in the year of the competition.
Eligible Countries
citizenship, residency permanent: Worldwide🌎 It is possible for teams to include participants of other nationalities if they have been residing in the country for a reasonable duration before selection, or citizens residing in another country. Students are discouraged from participating in selection processes of two countries in the same year.
How to Apply
Students must contact their national Olympiad committee to learn about the selection process and participation. If a country does not participate, a national Olympiad committee (NOC) can be formed. The host country opens the IOAA website about 6 months before the event for pre-registration. Pre-registered countries can then request official invitations. At pre-registration, contact details and expected number of participants are needed. At registration (3-4 months before the event), full participant details, passport copies, photos, tentative travel plans, and diplomatic mission details for visa applications are required. Team leaders must carry proofs of student eligibility.