International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition
(IAAC)
Over 14,500 global participants with a passion for astronomy, physics and mathematics
Open to high school students from around the world, competing on the same stage
Inspiring Chinese students to explore the universe
Winners of the Final Round will have the opportunity to receive a scholarship
Pre-final round Date:
Release of Part A Problems: Apr. 11, 2025
Release of Part B Problems: Mid Aug. 2025
Submission Deadline: Part A: Jul. 5, 2025, 7:59 Part B: Mid Aug. 2025
Final round Date: Sep. 2025 (TBD)
Introduction

International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC) is organised by the German Edu.Harbour committee and more than 14,500 students worldwide have taken part in this challenge. IAAC is a progressive challenge: Pre-Final Round → Final Round, where participants can receive awards, certificates, cash prizes and global recognition.
Students do not need a deep knowledge of astronomy, IAAC aims to help students develop an interest in science and encourage them to pursue future careers in scientific fields that are vital to the future of humanity!
IAAC (Pre-Final Round) Rules
Language
Paper Language: Part A: Chinese & English; Part B: English
Answer Language: English
Date
Part A: Apr. 11, 2025 - Jul. 5, 2025, 7:59
Part B: Mid Aug. 2025
Venue
Online
Participants
Junior: 9th Grade and below (and < 16 years old)
Youth: 10th to 12th Grade (and < 19 years old)
Format
Individual Test
Scoring Criteria
Both the correct answer and the steps are all counted in the score
Awards
Global Award
All students will receive participation award
National Award
• High Distinction Award: Top 10%
• Distinction Award: Top 25%
• Credit Award: Top 40%
Registration Deadline
Jul.1, 2025
IAAC (Final Round) Rules
Language
English
Date
Sep. 2025 (TBD)
Venue
Online
Participants
Pre-Final Round qualified students
Format
Individual test
Awards
Global Award
• 1st Prize: 125 USD Cash Prize, Certificate
• 2nd Prize: 75 USD Cash Prize, Certificate
• 3rd Prize: 25 USD Cash Prize, Certificate
• Global Gold, Global Silver, Global Bronze (all students will be awarded Global Gold, Silver and Bronze in a 1:2:3 ratio)
* Combine the overall performances of the pre-final and the final round to select the top three global award
National Award
• National Award (China): Top 3 in China
Registration Deadline
TBD