The Sophie Fellowship - Mathematics Olympiad Mentorship Program
Enhances top university applications
A free online mentorship program for high school students in India passionate about mathematics, preparing them for prestigious competitions like IMO, EGMO, and INMO.
Mode
Online
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual
Duration
6 to 8 months
Eligibility
Open to high school students (typically Grades 8-12, ages 13-18) across India who are passionate about mathematics and interested in Olympiads. Applicants must not be enrolled in a university as of October 1, 2025. Strong enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and consistent engagement are expected.
- Grade level
- Grade 8 to 12
- Age range
- 13 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Strong interest and passion for mathematics, particularly mathematical Olympiads.
- Prerequisites
- Strong interest in mathematics
- Passion for mathematical Olympiads
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Opens doors to
Provides a significant advantage in admissions to prestigious undergraduate and postgraduate programs in mathematics and related fields.
Career pathways
Develops a strong foundation for competitive careers in mathematics, science, engineering, and technology.
Recognition
International Mathematical Recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Registration opened
- 1 Apr 2026
- Registration closed
- 17 Apr 2026
- Dates
- 15 Jun 2026 to 31 Dec 2026
Online · Discord
How to apply
- 1The application involves a problem set and personal questions to assess passion for mathematics. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a short interview. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving approach and enthusiasm rather than just correct answers.
- 2Applicants are expected to attempt all problems in the problem set and submit any progress, even if not fully solved.
- 3Discussion of application problems with others is strictly prohibited until decisions are published.
- 4The use of online resources like Geogebra or Wolfram Alpha is not permitted for application problems.
Rules and guidelines
- All submitted solutions for application problems must be original.
- Proactive communication with program staff is encouraged for any issues or questions.
- Students are expected to share their progress consistently throughout the program.
Technology requirements
- Access to a Discord server for classes and discussions
- Reliable internet connection
- Device capable of attending online classes and submitting assignments
About this opportunity
The Sophie Fellowship is a student-run initiative dedicated to assisting selected high school students in India who are passionate about mathematics. The program offers comprehensive training and guidance for national and international mathematical competitions such as the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), European Girls' Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO), and Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO). It aims to enhance the quality of math education in India by making Olympiad mathematics more accessible and improving gender representation in the mathematical community.
This fellowship provides weekly classes covering a wide range of Olympiad-related topics, from foundational concepts like Modular Arithmetic and Pigeonhole Principle to advanced subjects such as Quadratic Residues and Projective Geometry. Participants also engage in compulsory weekly problem sets, often solved collaboratively in group sessions, with feedback provided by the mentors. The program includes regular team contests and mock tests for upcoming competitions, along with personalized advice on solution writing.
Mentors are experienced students who have excelled in major mathematical contests, including IMO and EGMO medalists and participants in the Indian IMO training camp. The program emphasizes a supportive community environment, offering access to a Discord server for doubts, discussions, and collaborative learning.
The Sophie Fellowship is completely free of cost, making high-quality Olympiad training accessible to talented students across India.
What your child will do
- Weekly classes on Olympiad-related topics
- Weekly compulsory problem sets with feedback
- Bi-weekly team contests
- Mock tests for upcoming competitions (INMO, EGMO, APMO, IMO TSTs)
- Weekly Math Presentations (WeMPs) by fellows
- Group problem-solving sessions (g-solves)
- Discussions and doubt clearing on Discord server
Mentors and faculty
The team consists of students who have previously participated in and performed well at various mathematical contests such as the IMO, APMO, EGMO, and INMO, including IMO and EGMO medalists and participants in the Indian IMO training camp.
Languages
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
The curriculum includes weekly classes on Olympiad-related topics, ranging from basics like Modular Arithmetic and Angle Chasing to advanced topics such as Quadratic Residues and Projective Geometry. It also features classes by students from top universities on higher math topics like Linear Algebra, Group Theory, and Real Analysis. Weekly problem sets, team contests, and mock tests for competitions are integral parts of the program.
Frequently asked questions
What is the expected weekly time commitment for participants in the program?
Participants should anticipate dedicating approximately 8-12 hours per week to the program. This includes around 4 hours of live online classes, along with dedicated time for practice problem sets, mock tests, and collaborative work with peers and mentors. Consistent engagement is crucial for maximizing benefits.
How many students are typically selected for The Sophie Fellowship each year?
The program aims to select up to 20 Indian students for each cohort. The selection process is highly competitive, and efforts are made to maintain a balanced gender ratio among the selected participants to foster a diverse learning environment.
What should applicants focus on when attempting the application problems?
Applicants are encouraged to attempt all problems and submit any progress made, even if not fully solved. The primary focus is on demonstrating the problem-solving approach, logical reasoning, and mathematical thinking rather than solely on achieving correct final answers. Show your work and thought process.
If a student is not selected for the fellowship, can they still succeed in mathematical Olympiads?
Absolutely. Non-selection does not diminish a student's potential for Olympiad success. The program selects those who are believed to benefit most from this specific mentorship structure, and many successful Olympiad participants achieve their goals independently through self-study and other resources.
Are the learning resources developed during the program made publicly available?
The Sophie Fellowship team endeavors to share the resources created for the program publicly to the greatest extent possible. This commitment aims to make valuable learning materials accessible to a wider audience of aspiring mathematicians beyond the selected fellows.
What technical requirements are necessary for participating in the online program?
Participants need a stable internet connection and a device capable of running Discord for online classes and discussions. Familiarity with online communication platforms is beneficial, and technical support will be available during program hours.
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