Dates marked Expected are estimates from earlier years. Exam bodies can change dates, rules and fees. Always confirm on the official website before you apply.
In this page
About the exam
The Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics (IOQM) is the first stage of the path to the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). Toppers go to RMO, then INMO, and the best students are selected for the national training camp and the Indian team.
Eligibility
- Classes 8 to 12, born between 1 August 2007 and 31 July 2014 (for the 2026-27 cycle).
- Eligible for an Indian passport. Studying or residing in India since 30 October 2024.
- No Class 12 board exam scheduled before 30 October 2026, and not enrolled in a university by 1 June 2027.
Important dates
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| IOQM 2026 | 6 September 2026, 10 am to 1 pm. Held | Closed / past |
| RMO 2026 | 15 November 2026, 1 pm to 4 pm (for qualifiers) | Official |
| INMO 2027 | 17 January 2027, 12 noon to 4:30 pm | Official |
| INMO results | Last week of February or first week of March 2027 | Expected |
| Training camp (IMOTC) | April to May 2027 | Expected |
| Next IOQM | Expected around September 2027. Watch the HBCSE page from August | Expected |
Exam pattern
- IOQM: 30 questions with integer answers (00 to 99), 100 marks, 3 hours, OMR, no negative marking.
- RMO: 6 proof-type questions, 17 marks each, 3 hours.
- INMO: 6 proof-type questions, 17 marks each, 4.5 hours.
Selection process
- RMO: at least 10% of IOQM marks plus regional cut-offs (top 200 in Category A and top 40 in Category B, and some extra girls).
- INMO: top 30 in Category A, top 6 in Category B and extra girls from RMO.
- Training camp selects the six students for the Indian IMO team.
Fee
- Registration details and any fee are published on the MTA(I) and HBCSE pages.
How to apply
- Open the HBCSE Olympiad page and the MTA(I) site when registration opens.
- Register as a student or through your school as the notice says.
- Questions about IOQM go to [email protected].
Official website
HBCSE Olympiad page ↗olympiads.hbcse.tifr.res.in/mathematical-olympiad-2026-2027/MTA (India) ↗mtai.org.in
Frequently asked questions
Which class can write IOQM?
Students of Class 8 to 12 who meet the birth date rule. For 2026-27 the dates are 1 August 2007 to 31 July 2014.
What is the next step after IOQM?
RMO, then INMO. The best students go to the training camp for the Indian team.