The International Applied Chemistry Olympiad (IAChO) is a worldwide competition that challenges students to tackle real-world problems through applied chemistry. Organized by the Indonesia Scientific Society (ISS), IAChO focuses on "application-oriented chemical problems" that connect chemical theory to pressing global challenges including the energy transition, climate change, sustainable materials, healthcare, and food security.
What participants do:
- Solve applied chemistry problems requiring creativity, analytical rigor, and innovative thinking
- Engage with research-based practical tasks alongside theory examinations
- Develop skills in modern experimental techniques, data analysis, and research communication
- Work within a framework emphasizing sustainability principles, scientific ethics, and responsible innovation
Areas of focus:
- Clean energy and the energy transition
- Climate change and environmental protection
- Sustainable materials and chemistry
- Healthcare and pharmaceutical applications
- Food security and agricultural chemistry
Cross-disciplinary skills: IAChO emphasizes not just chemical knowledge but also scientific communication, data interpretation, and international collaboration — reflecting the kinds of skills needed for careers in modern chemistry and adjacent fields.
About ISS: The Indonesia Scientific Society is a nonprofit organization that runs multiple international science olympiads including IAPhO (physics), IABO (biology), IAMO (mathematics), and IAChO (chemistry). ISS competitions are open to participants worldwide.
Cycle check, November 4, 2026: The official September 28 report confirms that IAChO 2026 was held in Bandung, Indonesia, September 24–27, with the award ceremony on September 27. These dates describe the historical event, not an application window.
The generic IAChO overview still has an undated Opening Soon button. It does not supply a dated registration process or announce a future cycle. Exact future age/grade or university eligibility, costs, deadlines and any online qualifying stages were not verified. The in-person format refers to the reported 2026 event.