International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition
The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition gives you the unique opportunity to show your knowledge and astronomy skills! The IAAC is an online astronomy competition for students from all countries. Win awards and cash prizes or become IAAC ambassador in your country!
The International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition is an international science competition that enables students from all countries to prove their skills and to unleash their creativity in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics. IAAC gives you the unique opportunity to apply your skills to challenging problems. Participants can receive certificates, awards, cash prizes, and global recognition.
Who can participate?
In order to participate in the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition, you have to be a high-school or university student. Students from all grades and all countries are invited to participate! There are two age categories:
- Junior: under 18 years on 26. April 2024 (submission deadline)
- Youth: over 18 years on 26. April 2024 (submission deadline)
Depending on your age category you will have to score more points to qualify for the next round. To solve the problems you should be interested in astronomy, smart, and creative. You should also have a working internet connection to submit your solution online via the submission form: Qualification Round 2024
Prizes and Awards
All participants receive participation certificates. The best students receive the 1. prize, 2. prize, and 3. prize with a cash award of 150 USD, 100 USD, and 50 USD (both for the youth and junior category). Furthermore, the most outstanding participants from each country receive a special national award to honour their excellence. There are also special school awards and awards for ambassadors. You find all information about the many awards that worth over 700 USD in total in in IAAC 2024 information flyer (Download PDF) and on this page: Prizes and Awards
Become IAAC Ambassador
Winners, students, and interested youths are encouraged to become official IAAC ambassadors with the aim to inspire students for astronomy and to encourage them to participate in the IAAC competition. You will find all information about the benefits, responsibilities, and application below on this page: More Information
For Parents, Teachers, and Schools
Parents, teachers, and schools are invited to share this opportunity with their students and youths to make talented students in particular benefit from IAAC. We provide materials, flyers, and posters for schools and teachers and we will support you with any issue. We also award several special awards for teachers and schools: More Information
