INMO Eligibility & Exam Dates 2025: Who Can Apply and How to Register
FAQs on INMO Exam 2025: Complete Student Guide
1. What is the Indian National Mathematical Olympiad?
The Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO) is a national-level mathematics competition for classes 8–12 in India, serving as the third step of the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) selection process. It assesses problem-solving skills through six challenging, descriptive math problems covering algebra, number theory, geometry, and combinatorics. Qualifiers can attend the IMOTC training camp, with top performers selected to represent India at the IMO.
2. Who is eligible for INMO 2025?
Students are eligible for INMO 2025 if they:
- Qualify the IOQM (Indian Olympiad Qualifier in Mathematics).
- Are in classes 8–12 as per the latest HBCSE guidelines.
- Belong to the top 28 from each region (classes 8–11), top 6 from class 12, or top 5 girls per region from classes 8–11 (girl quota).
- Fit within overseas quotas for CBSE/ICSE/KV students abroad (max. 5 each category).
- Are previous year INMO awardees (direct entry for current year).
There is no direct open registration; eligibility is via IOQM merit only.
3. What is the INMO exam date for 2025?
The INMO 2025 exam is tentatively scheduled for February 2025. The official date will be announced by HBCSE on their website closer to the time. Eligible students should check for updates regularly.
4. How hard is it to qualify for the math olympiad?
Qualifying for the INMO is highly competitive and requires advanced problem-solving skills. Key points include:
- Only top students from IOQM can attempt INMO.
- The exam presents six complex, proof-based questions.
- Deep conceptual understanding of algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics is mandatory.
- Self-prep using previous year papers and intensive practice is needed for success.
5. Does the math olympiad look good for college?
Yes, qualifying or ranking in the INMO or Math Olympiad is highly regarded by colleges in India and internationally.
- INMO performance demonstrates strong problem-solving, logical reasoning, and dedication.
- It enhances academic profiles for admissions, scholarships, and STEM opportunities.
- Leads to participation in camps like IMOTC and potential selection for the IMO team.
6. What is the syllabus for the INMO exam?
The INMO syllabus for 2025 covers advanced mathematics topics relevant for classes 8–12:
- Algebra: Polynomials, inequalities, factorisation, functional equations
- Geometry: Euclidean geometry, circles, triangles, transformations
- Number Theory: Divisibility, modular arithmetic, primes, Diophantine equations
- Combinatorics: Counting, permutations, pigeonhole principle, graph theory basics
Calculus and statistics are generally not included.
7. Where can I download INMO previous year papers with solutions?
You can access INMO previous year question papers and solutions for free from official sources and educational websites:
- Vedantu’s INMO resources section provides downloadable PDFs and solutions.
- The HBCSE Olympiad official site hosts a repository of past papers.
- Practicing these papers is crucial for self-assessment and exam readiness.
8. What are the benefits of qualifying INMO?
Qualifying the INMO offers significant academic and career advantages:
- Invitations to the prestigious IMOTC (International Mathematical Olympiad Training Camp).
- Eligibility to represent India at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
- Certificates, merit scholarships, and national recognition.
- Boosts college applications and enhances STEM career prospects.
9. Is coaching mandatory for INMO?
Coaching for INMO is not compulsory, but it can provide structured guidance, practice, and expert feedback:
- Many top performers benefit from online INMO coaching and mock tests.
- Self-study with quality reference books and solving PYQs is also effective.
- Joining study groups and Olympiad forums can accelerate learning.
10. How are tie-breakers decided for INMO?
In the event of an INMO tie, the process is as follows:
- PRMO/IOQM scores are considered first for breaking ties.
- If there's still a tie, all names are submitted to HBCSE for committee review and final selection, as per official policy.
11. What is the INMO exam pattern?
The INMO exam is a written, subjective test focused on mathematical proofs:
- 6 questions, each demanding a descriptive and logical explanation.
- 4-hour duration (typically 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm).
- No calculators allowed; only geometry tools are permitted.
- Conducted offline, available in English and Hindi.
- Partial credit awarded for correct reasoning, no negative marking.
12. Can girls and overseas students apply for INMO?
Yes, special quotas in INMO allow:
- Top 5 girl students per region (from classes 8–11) to qualify even if not in the standard cutoff.
- CBSE, ICSE, and KV students abroad can qualify through specific overseas quotas (up to 5 in each category), as per HBCSE rules.

















