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International from the start
Every participant solves the same problems from the first round onward. That makes the competition a genuine global benchmark rather than a collection of separate national contests.
AUL IPhyC 2026About IPhyC
A global classroom for physics.
The Anchor University International Physics Competition is the University’s 2026 host edition of IPhyC, based at Physics Laboratory, Room D207 in Lagos. It is ambitious, accessible, and built around the pleasure of solving a difficult problem.
Why it exists
Physics rewards better questions.
“A learning experience first, a competition second.”
The IPhyC approach
Physics explores the laws that govern the universe, from subatomic particles to the largest structures in the cosmos. The International Physics Competition exists to give students a reason to engage with that breadth—not just to memorise it, but to use it.
The competition is organised annually and entirely online. Students from any country can take part, and the same problems are used across the world in every round. The programme is deliberately built to reach students who may not have access to a national olympiad pathway.
For 2026, Anchor University hosts the edition at Physics Laboratory, Room D207 on its Ayobo campus, giving students in Lagos a local base while the official rounds continue online through IPhyC.
High Knowledge Tutors coordinates the local initiative, outreach, and participation support. It does not own or internationally organise IPhyC; competition rules, evaluation, prizes, and official resources remain with the International Physics Competition.
Its purpose is broader than ranking. IPhyC aims to develop scientific reasoning, problem-solving, and the confidence to approach unfamiliar material. The Semi-Final’s research paper is central to that mission: it asks students to read, apply, and think like a scientist.
2025
First edition
03
Online rounds
Global
Participation
What makes it different
Not a test you can cram for.
IPhyC combines the structure of a competition with the openness of a research seminar. These are the qualities the organisers use to describe the programme.
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Digital accessibility
The competition is designed to be entered from anywhere with an internet connection. Individual participation is always possible, whether or not your school is involved.
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Experimental formats
Some problems deliberately break the mould of a traditional exam, asking for deeper investigation, unusual reasoning, or a fresh approach to a familiar idea.
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Real-world research
The Semi-Final is built around a recently published research paper. For many participants, it is their first serious encounter with the scientific literature.
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Adjusted difficulty
Problems are written to welcome newcomers while still stretching experienced competitors. The goal is a positive learning experience at every level.
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Support for teachers
Teachers get a dedicated account for managing students, tracking results, accessing certificates, and supervising the Semi-Final exam.
A note on olympiads
Not an alternative. A different way in.
IPhyC does not intend to replace established competitions such as the International Physics Olympiad or the European Physics Olympiad. It is a supplementary programme for students of all levels, especially those beginning to explore physics beyond school.
Read the official comparisonWho is behind it
Independent, international, evolving.
The International Physics Competition takes place annually. The Anchor University edition is coordinated locally by HK Tutors. The competition was first organised in 2025, and most of the international organising team is based in Germany.
It is an independent programme. Sponsors and partners cover part of the cost, while the Semi-Final registration fee supports the evaluation and delivery of the competition. Financial aid is available to reduce that barrier for participants who need it.
IPhyC 2026
Bring your curiosity. We will bring the problems.
Start with the free Qualification Round and see where the questions take you.
External links open the official IPhyC site