International Linguistics Olympiad

World championship in linguistics puzzles for secondary school students, where contestants decipher unfamiliar languages and no prior study of linguistics is needed. The 24th olympiad runs July 21 to 28, 2027 in Bangkok, Thailand. US students reach it by placing in NACLO, which selects the national team.

Offered by IOL. Competition for high school students in Worldwide. Format: In-person. Cost: Free. Grades 9–12. Deadline: rolling or not yet announced.

Fields: Linguistics, Humanities

Key facts

Who can apply: High school students in grades 9 to 12. It takes place in person in Worldwide.
Cost: Free to take part.
Dates: No date is posted for the 2026-27 cycle yet. Check the official page for when applications open.

Info checked September 2026.

Questions about International Linguistics Olympiad

When is the International Linguistics Olympiad deadline?

No date is posted for the 2026-27 cycle yet. Check the official page for when applications open.

Is International Linguistics Olympiad free?

Yes. International Linguistics Olympiad is free to take part in.

Who can apply to International Linguistics Olympiad?

High school students in grades 9 to 12. It takes place in person in Worldwide. Age, residency and citizenship rules are on the official page.

Official program page

More academic competitions for high school students