Application Deadline: 17 April, 2026
LOCATION: Germany
The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition is an educational science competition that enables students from all countries to test their skills in astronomy and astrophysics. Participants can receive certificates, awards, cash prizes, and global recognition.
ELIGIBILITY:
Current high school and university students from all grades and countries are eligible. There are three age groups:
Junior: 10th Grade and below (and < 16 years of age)
Youth: 11th to 13th Grade (and < 19 years of age)
Senior: 1st Year College/University and higher (or ≥ 19 years of age)
Participation is free
Depending on your age group, you will have to solve more problems to qualify for the next round: More Details. To solve the problems, you should be open-minded and creative. As some problems may require you to read real-world research material, fluency in English is beneficial. You should have a working internet connection to submit your solution online.
For Teachers and Schools: Teachers, schools, and parents are invited to share IAAC as an extracurricular learning opportunity for students with an interest in science. They provide learning materials, flyers, and posters, and our team supports you with any issue. There are also special awards for teachers and schools: More Information
BENEFIT:
The top performers receive the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes, with awards worth 2500 USD, including cash prizes and telescopes signed by astronaut Frank De Winne and Nobel Prize laureates François Englert, Gerard ‘t Hooft, Michel Mayor, and Didier Queloz. All participants receive participation certificates. There are also national awards for the best participants from each country: Prizes and Awards
YouthExpat 