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SOF IMOSOF International Mathematics Olympiad

Conducting body
Science Olympiad Foundation (SOF), New Delhi
Level
national
Frequency
Once a year (Level 1 offered on multiple school-chosen dates)
Mode
Offline, conducted through registered schools
Duration
1 hr
Negative marking
None

About SOF IMO

SOF’s International Mathematics Olympiad is the foundation’s flagship and among the most-taken school maths contests in India, spanning Classes 1 to 12 through registered schools. The one-hour paper covers logical reasoning, curriculum mathematics, applied word problems and a high-weightage Achievers Section, with a second level for senior-class toppers.

The name invites confusion with the International Mathematical Olympiad, the elite team competition India reaches via IOQM and INMO — the two share initials and nothing else. SOF’s IMO is early competitive exposure: useful for building exam temperament and earning ranks and scholarships, but not a stage of the national olympiad programme.

Accepted by: SOF international/zonal/school ranks, medals, cash awards and scholarships; no admission or team-selection value — the official IMO pathway runs through IOQM and INMO

Official website

SOF IMO eligibility

Classes 1–12 (Level 2 for qualifying students of Classes 3–12)

SOF IMO exam pattern

Questions
Classes 1–4: 35; Classes 5–12: 50
Total marks
Classes 1–4: 40; Classes 5–12: 60
Duration
1 hr

Sections

  • Logical Reasoning
  • Mathematical Reasoning
  • Everyday Mathematics
  • Achievers Section (higher-weightage questions)

Marking scheme: None

SOF IMO syllabus outline

  • Mathematics aligned to the CBSE/ICSE/State-board syllabus of the student’s class, plus applied "everyday maths" word problems
  • Two-level structure: Level 1 in school; Level 2 for top Level 1 performers of Classes 3–12
  • Distinct from the International Mathematical Olympiad — SOF’s IMO is a school benchmarking contest, not the IMO that national teams contest

Preparing for SOF IMO?

Olympiads reward deep fundamentals — the same preparation that pays off later in JEE, NEET and other entrance exams. Explore every national and international olympiad, or check the official site for this year's dates and registration.

More olympiads: SOF Olympiads

Sources & official references