How to Participate in Maths Olympiad? | Olympiad Preparation for Class 10 PDF Download

What is IMO?

The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), organized by the Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), is a prestigious academic competition designed for Class 10 students to excel in mathematics. Distinct from the global IMO, this SOF-organized exam challenges students to sharpen their logical reasoning, deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts, and tackle complex problems with confidence. It offers a rewarding opportunity to enhance academic skills and prepare for future success in STEM fields

IMO 2025 - 2026 Eligibility Criteria: 

The SOF requires schools to register students for the IMO. Key eligibility details include:

• Student Eligibility: Open to Class 10 students from recognized boards (e.g., CBSE, ICSE, state boards, or other recognized boards).
• School Registration: Schools must register with SOF. Unregistered schools can request a prospectus by emailing info@sofworld.org.
• Application Process: Registration is completed through the student’s school; individual applications are not accepted.
• Subject Requirement: Mathematics is a compulsory subject for participants.

Steps to participate in IMO

To take part, students simply need to follow these simple instructions:

Accessing Registration forms:

• Students in class 10 are eligible to participate in the SOF IMO.
• Registration forms are given to all the schools that are already part of SOF.
• Schools not yet registered can request prospectuses by emailing info@sofworld.org or making a phone call.

Completing and Returning Forms:

• After all the students have submitted their forms, schools are required to return the registration forms to SOF, completely filled out and in good order, by the specified deadline.

Roll Numbers:

• The school's coordinating teacher is responsible for completing the School Registration Form (SRF) and Students' Registration Sheet (SRS) following the provided guidelines.
• These forms should be sent to SOF's office before the designated submission deadline.
• Upon receipt of the Students' Registration Sheet (SRS) from the school, SOF will register the school and students.
• SOF will then generate roll numbers for all participating students.

Registration Fee Details:

• Schools in India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, & Nepal pay a registration fee of Rs 125* (including GST) per student/Olympiad to SOF for the examination.
• An extra charge of Rs 25** per student may be added by schools for in-charge honorarium, teacher remuneration, and other expenses.
• For countries outside India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, & Nepal, the registration fee is US$9 per student/Olympiad*, with an additional US$1** per student for related expenses.
• *Includes GST.
• **Additional charge for related expenses.

Fee Exemption: 

• Students with major physical disabilities or Indian students whose parent was martyred during defense operations are exempt from fees.

No Individual Registrations:

• It's important to note that individual student registrations are not accepted. Students should register through their respective schools to participate in the IMO.

Exam Pattern and Syllabus

Pattern

The SOF IMO for Class 10 consists of four sections with 50 objective-type questions, to be completed in 60 minutes:

• Section I: Logical Reasoning.
• Section II: Mathematical Reasoning.
• Section III: Everyday Mathematics.
• Section IV: Achievers Section (higher-order thinking questions).
• Duration: 60 minutes.

Marking Scheme:

The exam pattern and the marking scheme has been outlined in the table below:

IMO Level 1 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme for Classes 10:

IMO Level 2 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme for Classes 10:

Note: There is no negative marking. 

Syllabus

• Logical Reasoning (Section 1): Series Completion, Analogy, Classification, Coding-Decoding, Blood Relations, Direction Sense, Logical Venn Diagrams, Alpha-Numeric Sequence, Mathematical Operations, Mirror/Water Images, Paper Folding/Cutting, Cubes and Dice, Dot Situation, Embedded Figures, Odd One Out, Patterns.

• Mathematical Reasoning (Section 2): Real Numbers, Polynomials, Pair of Linear Equations in Two Variables, Quadratic Equations, Arithmetic Progressions, Triangles, Coordinate Geometry, Introduction to Trigonometry, Applications of Trigonometry, Circles, Areas Related to Circles, Surface Areas and Volumes, Statistics, Probability.

• Everyday Mathematics (Section 3): Application-based questions aligned with Section 2 topics.

• Achievers Section (Section 4): Higher-order thinking questions based on Section 2 topics.

Benefits

• Enhanced Problem-Solving: Develops critical thinking and analytical skills through complex problems.
• Deepened Mathematical Understanding: Encourages a thorough grasp of Class 10 math concepts beyond the standard curriculum.
• Improved Academic Performance: Boosts skills transferable to school mathematics and related subjects.
• Preparation for STEM: Builds a strong foundation for students pursuing science, technology, engineering, or mathematics in higher education.
• Networking Opportunities: Connects students with peers and teachers through school and regional competitions.
• Increased Confidence: Solving challenging problems enhances students’ confidence in their abilities.
• Improved Time Management: Prepares students to manage time effectively during exams and study.

Preparation Tips and Tricks

Preparing for the Class 10 Mathematics Olympiad may seem difficult, but it's an exciting chance. Instead of just a test, view it as an adventure to discover the world of numbers and logic. With enthusiasm and dedication, you can approach it successfully, enjoying the process of learning and solving problems. 

To support you on this journey, we've prepared some useful tips and tricks:

Preparation:

• Understand the syllabus thoroughly and plan to cover topics each day.
• Choose a consistent time and place for studying to maintain regularity.
• Focus on learning with a clear conceptual understanding.
• Take notes while studying, highlighting key points and important topics for easier revision.
• After completing the syllabus, practice chapter-wise questions and mock tests to identify strengths and weaknesses and improve accordingly.
• Once confident with the syllabus, solve previous year's question papers to understand the exam pattern, enhance time management skills, and improve speed and accuracy.

Exam Strategies:

• Stay calm and focused. Take deep breaths and read instructions carefully.
• Effective time management. Allocate time for each section based on strengths and question numbers.
• Careful reading. Analyze questions before attempting answers and identify keywords.
• Utilize the elimination technique. Eliminate wrong options if uncertain about an answer.
• Double-check. Review answers to avoid mistakes before submitting.

Bonus Tips:

• Stay curious! Experiment, ask questions, and explore the world of numbers and logic.
• Make Mathematics fun by using digital whiteboards and interactive problem-solving platforms, calculating distances, travel time, and costs for trips.
• Believe in yourself. Have confidence in your preparation and give your best effort.

Remember:

• IMO is challenging yet rewarding; focus on learning and enjoying the journey.
• Celebrate achievements, learn from mistakes, and keep your passion alive.