International Chemistry Olympiad Essentials for Students

Updated: 19.05.2025

Read time: 3 min read

What Is the International Chemistry Olympiad?

Secondary school students qualify through national selection to compete in this international chemistry competition, undertaking both theoretical and practical exams that test advanced knowledge and laboratory skills; medals are awarded to top performers.

The competition is supported by the IChO Endowment Fund.

Where Is the International Chemistry Olympiad Held?

The Chemistry Olympiad is hosted in a different country each year, with all competitors attending in person. Students qualify through their national chemistry olympiads, so only selected national teams participate.

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About the International Chemistry Olympiad: Celebrating Global Talent in the Chemical Sciences

The International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO) is an annual academic competition that brings together some of the most gifted secondary school students from around the world to challenge their knowledge and problem-solving skills in chemistry. Established in 1968 in the former Czechoslovakia, the IChO was founded by a group of educators dedicated to promoting excellence in chemical education and fostering international cooperation among young scientists.

The IChO is governed by the International Steering Committee, with support from the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC). Each year, the competition is hosted by a different participating country, and organized by that country’s national chemistry body—often in collaboration with government education ministries and leading scientific institutions.

The Olympiad includes both theoretical and practical laboratory exams, designed to push students beyond textbook knowledge and into real-world scientific thinking. While academically rigorous, the IChO also emphasizes cultural exchange, collaboration, and a shared passion for discovery.

Now in its sixth decade, the International Chemistry Olympiad has grown to include over 80 nations, and continues to inspire the next generation of chemists by providing a platform for learning, excellence, and international friendship.

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Key Details

Subjects: Advanced chemistry (theoretical and practical)

How to Enter: Qualify through national chemistry olympiad; selected students compete as national teams.

Age Range: Secondary school students (typically under 20)

Competition Format: One theoretical and one practical (laboratory) exam, each lasting several hours.

Recognition: Gold, silver, and bronze medals; certificates for top performers.

Sample Question: Determine the concentration of an unknown acid solution using titration with a standard base.

Our Tips for Succeeding in the International Chemistry Olympiad

Deepen your understanding of organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, and practice solving complex problems. Work through past papers and hone your laboratory skills with practical experiments. Join study groups or seek mentorship from teachers for challenging concepts. Manage your time well during exams and always show your reasoning clearly in written answers.