International Machine Learning Competition
IMLC
Create a free account to applySolve machine-learning problems from learning algorithm foundations to current research across three rounds, including a research-paper-based exam and timed online final. Use careful reasoning and maths to explore how models learn and fail; everyone receives a certificate, with honours and prizes for top performers.
The International Machine Learning Competition is a global student competition focused on how machine learning really works, from the foundations of learning algorithms to current research. It invites participants to solve problems that start with accessible ideas and gradually move towards more advanced concepts, so no prior experience is needed to begin.
The competition is run in three rounds. The Qualification Round introduces the core ideas, the Pre-Final Round adds a supervised exam based on a research paper, and the Final Round brings everything together in a timed online exam.
Students work through questions that reward careful reasoning, mathematical thinking and understanding of how models learn, generalise and fail.
It is open to current secondary school and university students worldwide, with different age groups and score thresholds used to determine progression. The competition is designed to be accessible, internationally inclusive and suitable for students who want to explore machine learning beyond the school curriculum.
All participants receive a certificate, and top performers receive honours and prize awards.
Participation certificate
13 December 2026
Qualification Round solutions are due by 13 December 2026 (23:59 UTC). Qualifiers then register for the Pre-Final Round, held 24 to 26 January 2027.
22 January 2027 – 26 January 2027
Pre-Final Round 2027
23 February 2027
Final Round 2027
Qualification Round 2026
Location
- Open to current secondary school and university students worldwide.
- Students from all grades and countries are eligible.
- You must be a student in a secondary school or a university to participate.
- Students between secondary school and university, such as gap-year students planning to start university soon, are also eligible.
- Participants are assigned to age groups based on their grade and age on the Qualification Round submission deadline: Junior (10th grade and below and under 16), Youth (11th to 13th grade or 16+), Senior (1st year college/university and above or 19+).
Free to enter. Qualified participants who register for the Pre-Final Round pay 12 EUR; financial aid is available for eligible participants.
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