International Physics Competition 2026: Join the Global Online Physics Challenge for Cash Prizes and Certificates
Submissions are open for the International Physics Competition 2026 (IPhyC 2026), an international online talent search in physics featuring three progressive rounds and cash prizes.
Overview
The International Physics Competition 2026 (IPhyC 2026) is an international online educational initiative and talent search that lets participants test their physics knowledge, strengthen scientific reasoning, and engage with problems beyond the conventional classroom curriculum. Coordinated by Edu.Harbour, the programme uses digital technology to make international physics challenges globally accessible without requiring travel.
The competition combines accessible introductory problems with advanced calculations, research-based questions, and fast-paced assessments across three progressive rounds:
- Qualification Round: An open-entry stage with five physics problems (free to enter).
- Semi-Final Round: A supervised 60-minute examination focusing on basic, advanced, and research-based problems (requires a EUR 12 entry fee for qualified participants, with limited financial aid available).
- Final Round: A digitally monitored online examination consisting of approximately 30 questions.
Eligibility
Participants compete across separate age and academic groups (Junior, Youth, and Senior) that receive the same problem sets but have adjusted qualifying thresholds. Entries are strictly individual, though limited collaboration and discussion of underlying concepts are permitted during the open Qualification Round.
Benefits
Participants can gain international recognition, verifiable digital and hard-copy certificates, national awards, and access to an alumni network. An award package worth USD 1,500 includes cash prizes ranging from USD 100 to USD 250 for top-performing finalists across the Junior, Youth, and Senior divisions.
How to Apply
Applicants must prepare their personal and academic details along with their completed Qualification Round solution file. Solutions may be typeset in TeX, converted to PDF from a word processor, or submitted as clear scanned images/photographs combined into a single PDF under 10 MB. Submissions are processed online; applications are not accepted via email.
Deadline
The Qualification Round submission deadline is Sunday, 1 November 2026 at 23:59 UTC+0.