The International Philosophy Olympiad (IPO) is an international essay competition for secondary-school students and eligible recent graduates. National delegations normally send one or two selected students, with up to ten permitted for the host. Essays address one of four topics; medals and honorable mentions recognize strong philosophical reasoning.
Entry requires national selection or an alternative procedure approved by IPO. Independent individuals, teams and schools cannot apply directly. The statute sets a maximum age of 20 by the end of the event’s calendar year and permits specified recent graduates even if now enrolled at university; national delegations may apply additional requirements.
The 2026 competition was held May 14–17 in Warsaw, Poland. As checked November 4, 2026, the official pages do not announce a 2027 host or exact schedule. National qualifying deadlines are distinct from international delegation registration. The statute requires host accommodation and meals for at least two pupils and one teacher per country; it does not establish that all selection, entry and travel costs are free.
Sources: official competition history, participation guidance and statute.