The International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) is the most prestigious international physics competition for secondary school students.
The main objective of the IPhO is to test, to the highest possible level, the knowledge, analytical skills, critical thinking, problem solving and skills in the field of theoretical and experimental physics.
The IPhO is organized each year by a different country. The event lasts 8 to 9 days. National teams comprise a maximum of five students and two team leaders.
Created in 1967, this international competition is open to brilliant scientists under the age of twenty who are determined to study science that are not yet enrolled at university.
For France, following on from the National Year of Physics and coinciding with the International Year of Quantum Sciences and Technologies, it is a further opportunity to highlight the formative virtues of physics, its importance in society and its contribution to the challenges facing nations today.
Created in 1967, this international competition is open to brilliant scientists under the age of twenty who are determined to study science that are not yet enrolled at university.
In France, the competition is open to students in their final year of high school. With nearly a hundred participating countries, the IPhO is the most renowned international physics competition. Their prestige and renown guarantee the participation of five of the most promising young scientists from each participating country.
Each year, a different country hosts the competition. Following a bid submitted in 2010, France was chosen to host the 2025 edition, to be held this July in Paris and the Île-de-France region.
This event contributes to the scientific and educational influence of the host countries, as well as of the organizing bodies and partners.
For France, following on from the National Year of Physics and coinciding with the International Year of Quantum Sciences and Technologies, it is a further opportunity to highlight the formative virtues of physics, its importance in society and its contribution to the challenges facing nations today.
Two five-hour tests, drawn up by the host country and amended by the leaders of the teams involved, are open to candidates competing individually.
The first is experimental, using equipment supplied to the candidates.
The second is theoretical, focusing on phenomena and their modeling.
An international jury awards the prizes at a prestigious ceremony to close the event.
