International Computer Science Competition

What is ICSC?

The ICSC is a global computer science program that blends education with friendly competition, preparing students today for the technological world of tomorrow.

Who can participate?

Middle school, high school, and university students of all grades and from all countries are invited to participate. We have three age categories:

• Junior: 10th Grade and below (< 16 years)
• Youth: 11th to 13th Grade (< 19 years)
• Senior: 1st Year College/University and higher (or ≥ 19 years)

You need curiosity, a drive to learn, pen and paper, and access to a computer. English reading comprehension is helpful for research problems. More Details

Process

Participants face a mixture of conceptual problems and programming problems, over three increasingly challenging rounds:

• Qualification Round: Solve five problems across various topics at your own pace.
• Pre-Final Round: A supervised exam covering more advanced problems and a research paper that is shared during the exam preperation phase.
• Final Round: A fast-paced online exam, consisting of multiple-choice, short answer, and coding problems on previous rounds and further advanced concepts.

All participants receive the same set of problems, but the passing criteria vary by age group. See All Rounds

Prizes and Awards

Showcase your abilities and compete for cash prizes, certificates, and global recognition. Awards include:

• 1st, 2nd, 3rd Cash Prizes for each age category.
• National Awards for top performers from each country.
• Bronze, Silver, and Gold Honours for Finalists.
• Special Honours for outstanding submissions.
• Official Participation Certificates for all participants.

The prizes are worth upwards of 1500 USD. See All Prizes and Awards

  ICSC General Information Document

Become Ambassador

Represent ICSC locally, organize events, and foster a community around computer science. It's a great leadership opportunity and valuable addition to your profile.

Requirements

Be at least 14 years old, passionate about computer science, and willing to actively promote ICSC. Certificates are awarded to active ambassadors (linked to ≥1 Pre-Final participant).

Mission & Responsibilities

As an ICSC Ambassador, your mission is to spark curiosity for computer science, deepen the interest in technology among students, and support the ICSC initiative in your region through the following key responsibilities:

1. Promoting computer science by organizing activities and raising awareness for technology in your community.
2. Building a local CS group to bring together interested students for ongoing learning and collaboration.
3. Increasing participation by encouraging students in your school, city, or country to take part in ICSC.
4. Supporting participants by answering questions, providing guidance, and serving as a local point of contact.

Example activities include hosting coding workshops, organizing local student groups, and mentoring students for the ICSC. Ambassadors also engage schools and promote the competition through outreach and social media. See Activity Ideas PDF

Benefits

In addition to gaining valuable career experience through our global network, ICSC Ambassadors enjoy a range of hands-on benefits:

• Represent ICSC in your region and start a local student or coding club.
• Receive an official ICSC Ambassador Certificate for active participation.
• Boost your CV with international leadership and outreach experience.
• Get priority for financial aid for Pre-Final Round fees (Learn More).
• Apply for project funding via our Ambassador Engagement Support (Learn More).
• Be recognized on the ICSC website and social media.
• Access global learning and scholarship opportunities through our network.

Special Awards & Levels

Annual awards recognize outstanding dedication and impact. Ambassadors can also progress through levels (Newcomer to Honoured) based on activity, experience, and participants encouraged. Ambassador Award Details