Overview

openGeo 2026 is the II Open International Geography Olympiad, an online geography competition for national teams of young geographers from around the world. It is held in English, has no participation fee for national teams, and is organised by the Faculty of Geography at Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow State University High School, and Primakov School.

Format Online, individual tests in English
Dates 19-22 June 2026
Fee No participation fee for national teams

Format & Testing

The competition uses three individual test sessions that measure geographic knowledge, map interpretation, analysis, and problem solving:

  • Written Response Test (WRT): five thematic sections with extended geographic tasks.
  • Practical and Mapping Exercise (PME): data collection, map and satellite image analysis, and mapmaking elements.
  • Multimedia Test (MMT): 40 multiple-choice questions supported by maps, photos, graphs, and other visual resources.

Schedule & Registration

The Olympiad runs from 19 to 22 June 2026, with competition rounds on 20 and 21 June. Preliminary applications closed on 31 May 2026, and final registration with team lists is due by 10 June 2026.

  • 20 June: opening ceremony, technical tests, and student instructions.
  • 21 June: Written Response Test, followed by academic programme activities.
  • 22 June: Practical and Mapping Exercise and Multimedia Test.

Participation & Eligibility

Each country may be represented by one national team of up to six students. All tests are individual, and students must work independently in English.

  • Participants must be 14 to 19 years old.
  • Students must be enrolled in secondary school or be graduating in 2026.
  • A laptop or computer with a working camera and microphone, stable internet, and a quiet test environment are required.

Awards & Prizes

Final scores are calculated from all three tests: WRT counts for 40%, PME for 40%, and MMT for 20%. Up to half of the participants receive medals and diplomas, with gold, silver, and bronze medals distributed in an approximate 1:2:3 ratio.