What are Physics Olympiads?

The International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) is an annual physics competition for high school students. It is one of the most prestigious international science competitions, alongside the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) and the International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO).

The IPhO aims to promote interest in physics and foster international cooperation among young physicists. Each participating country sends a team of up to five students to represent their nation. During the competition, students are tested on their theoretical knowledge and experimental skills in physics through challenging theoretical and experimental exams.

The Nodal agency for all the science and mathematics Olympiads in the country is the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE), a National center of the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). The Olympiad program is run in close collaboration with the teacher associations, including the Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT).

The first-stage examinations of the Olympiads in astronomy, biology, chemistry, and physics are conducted by IAPT, while the later stages are the responsibility of HBCSE. From 2022 onwards, IAPT is in charge of all stages of the Junior Science Olympiad.

The National-level examinations are designed to assess conceptual understanding, logical reasoning, laboratory skills, and, above all, the ability to apply problem-solving skills to novel situations, both theoretical and experimental.