International Machine Learning Competition 2026

The International Machine Learning Competition (IMLC) teaches students worldwide how machine learning actually works, from the fundamentals through
to current research. The problems span six areas, from core methods and optimisation to deep learning, frontier models, real-world applications, and
trustworthy AI. Students start with nothing more than school maths and curiosity and work their way up to a recent research paper.

Students compete across three rounds, and the total prize pool is 1,500 USD, along with international recognitions, national awards, and Gold, Silver, and
Bronze Honours for high-scoring finalists. All participants receive official certificates.

With only a pen, paper, and internet access required for the online stages, students can participate from anywhere in the world. IMLC provides an accessible entry into one of the most consequential technologies of the time.

Benefits
- International Recognition: All participants receive official digital certificates, with top-performing students earning international distinctions and awards.
- International Awards: Outstanding participants receive international recognitions and awards based on their performance throughout the competition.
- National Awards: The highest-performing participants from each participating country receive national awards recognizing their achievement.
- Honours System: High-scoring finalists receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze Honours based on their overall performance.
- Special Awards: Additional awards recognize exceptional teachers, schools, and regional representatives.
- Academic & Career Development: Join an international community of talented students while gaining opportunities for networking, mentorship, and future academic enrichment.
- Skill Development: Learn how machine learning works hands-on, from core methods and optimisation to deep learning, frontier models, real-world applications, and trustworthy AI.

Process
Qualification Round
- Participants solve machine learning problems independently from anywhere in the world
- Requires no more than school maths and curiosity to get started
- Deadline: 13 December 2026

Semi-Final Round
- Completed as a supervised or digitally monitored exam
- Includes reading a real scientific research paper

Final Round
- Supervised, tool-free international final
- Conducted globally on a unified examination schedule
- Top-performing students receive international and national awards

Eligibility
- Open to students worldwide.
- Designed for students interested in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and mathematics.
- Participants compete within appropriate age divisions established by the competition.
- Requires only a computer with internet access during the online stages.
- No prior machine learning experience is required—school mathematics and curiosity are enough to get started.