International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO)
by International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO)
₹5,000 Cash Prize
The International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) is a global competition for high school students to test their knowledge and skills in Earth sciences. It promotes interest in the subject and offers international exposure.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
₹200
Participation format
Individual
Duration
1-2 weeks (International Olympiad)
Eligibility
Open to Indian nationals aged 14-18, currently in grades 9-12. Applicants must be secondary/high school students from a recognized board and not have previously won a medal in IESO. Participants must be born on or after July 1. Selection involves a National Level Entrance Test, a Training Camp, and the Indian National Earth Science Olympiad (INESO).
- Grade level
- Grade 9 to 12
- Age range
- 14 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Must be a secondary/high school student; not a university/college student. Must be studying from a recognized State Board, ICSE Board, CBSE Board, or International Boards.
- Prerequisites
- Successful completion of the National Level Entrance Test (ET)
- Participation in the Training Camp and Indian National Earth Science Olympiad (INESO)
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Award
₹5,000
Cash prizes of ₹5,000 are awarded to each of the top four students selected to represent India at the IESO. Additionally, students selected for the national training camps receive free boarding, accommodation, and travel allowances.
Prizes
International Medals
High-achieving students at the international level are awarded Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals, signifying global academic excellence in Earth sciences.
Certificate
Certificate from IGEO & GSI
All participants of the national training camp receive a certificate of participation. Top performers and international medalists receive special certificates of merit recognizing their achievement.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Participation and success in IESO are highly valued by universities worldwide, demonstrating advanced scientific aptitude and international exposure, which can strengthen applications for Earth science and other STEM programs.
Career pathways
Provides a strong foundation and a competitive edge for future careers in Earth sciences, environmental consulting, research, and academia by offering deep subject knowledge and international exposure.
Recognition
Represent India Internationally
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 15 Nov 2025
- Registration closed
- 25 Dec 2025
- Competition
- 24 Jan 2026
- Results
- 7 Feb 2026
How to apply
- 1Students must register online through designated national centers, primarily the Geological Society of India. The process typically involves a national-level entrance test, followed by training camps and further selection rounds.
Rules and guidelines
- Participants must be secondary/high school students.
- Participants must not be university/college students.
- Students who have already won a medal in a previous IESO are not eligible to compete as official team members.
- The official language of the IESO is English, but mentors may translate materials into participants' native languages.
- Participants are allowed to bring writing and drawing instruments and non-programmable calculators for examinations.
- Confidentiality of question papers must be strictly maintained by test centers.
Fees and financial support
Fee details
A modest fee of ₹200 is charged for the first stage, the National Level Entrance Test. No fee is charged for subsequent stages, including training camps and the international Olympiad. Travel and accommodation for the international event are covered by the national organizing body.
Refund policy
Fee for the entrance test is typically non-refundable.
About this opportunity
The International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) is an annual global competition for secondary school students, organized by the International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO). It aims to increase student interest and public awareness of Earth sciences and to enhance Earth science education worldwide. The Olympiad provides a unique platform for students to compete academically, learn from peers, and showcase their abilities on an international stage.
Students from grades 9, 10, 11, and 12 are eligible to participate. Participants must be secondary or high school students and not older than 18 years of age as of July 1st of the Olympiad year. In India, students must first qualify through the National Earth Science Olympiad (INESO), conducted by the Geological Society of India, which sets specific age and academic criteria for eligibility.
Participants gain valuable knowledge in various Earth science disciplines, develop critical thinking and analytical skills, and foster international friendships. The competition includes theoretical and practical examinations, as well as unique activities like the International Team Field Investigation (ITFI) and Earth System Project (ESP), which emphasize cooperation and hands-on learning.
Excelling in IESO can significantly enhance a student's profile for higher education programs and future career opportunities in Earth sciences. It also promotes a holistic understanding of Earth systems and environmental issues, encouraging students to become future leaders in addressing global challenges.
Exam format
- Duration
- 90 minutes
- Format
- Objective-type questions for the National Level Entrance Test; theoretical problems and experimental/field tasks for the international stages.
Rounds and format
Stage 1: National Level Entrance Test (ET). Stage 2: Training Camp and Indian National Earth Science Olympiad (INESO). Stage 3: Pre-Departure Training Camp. Stage 4: International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO).
How entries are judged
Participants' answers to theoretical and practical examinations are evaluated. Rankings are based on total scores from both examinations. Medals are awarded based on performance.
How to prepare
- Review IESO official syllabus.
- Study geology, meteorology, oceanography, and astronomy.
- Practice with past question papers.
- Focus on Earth System Science approach.
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The curriculum covers major areas of Earth sciences, including the Geosphere, Hydrosphere, Atmosphere, and Planetary System, emphasizing an Earth System Science approach to highlight interconnections. It aligns with international standards for secondary school Earth science education.
Frequently asked questions
What strategies can participants employ to manage competitive pressure during the Olympiad?
Participants can manage competitive pressure by focusing on consistent preparation, practicing mindfulness techniques, and maintaining a balanced routine that includes adequate rest and recreational activities. Building a strong support system with mentors and peers also helps in navigating the high-stakes environment.
What are the common preparation pitfalls for candidates, and how can they be avoided?
Common mistakes include rote memorization without conceptual understanding, neglecting practical skills, and insufficient practice with past papers. Avoiding these involves adopting an Earth System Science approach, engaging in hands-on activities, and regularly reviewing performance to identify areas for improvement.
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