International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) is a world-renowned science competition that is intended to be used with school children who are interested in learning more about geology, geophysics, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy, and environmental science. Another activity, organized annually by the International Geoscience Education Organization (IGEO), is IESO, which gives a unique, prestigious opportunity to young learners to prepare as a thinker, environmentalist and practical problem solver via theory tests, field studies and human global interactions.

In India, the Olympiad selection is done at the national level by the Geological Society of India (GSI), and the process starts with the IESO Entrance Test 2026. Being the first and the most crucial stage in the path of the student who wants to become a qualified candidate to get his chance in the national training camp and eventually tour to the international front-line on behalf of India. You can also get the latest and correct information with regard to IESO 2026 in this guide that covers its date of exam, date of registration, eligibility, exam pattern, syllabus of the exam, stages of training and the performance of India in the same.

What is IESO? Complete Overview

The IESO (International Earth Science Olympiad) is a global Earth science competition that is attended by the best school students every year in 30 or more countries. The Olympiad, which began in 2007 in Daegu, South Korea, is dedicated to geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy, environmental science and real-world problem solving on Earth.

Unlike regular written exams, IESO is a unique mix of theory + practical + team-based learning, where students participate in:

Theory examinations

• Hands-on practical activities
• Field investigations
• International team projects
• Earth science data analysis and problem solving

Overall, IESO helps students build strong scientific thinking, environmental awareness, and global collaboration skills — exactly what today’s world needs.

IESO 2026 – Complete Key Highlights (Full Overview for Students)

To help students understand the exam clearly, here is the complete and detailed overview of the International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) 2026 including exam date, subjects, mode, and national-level selection details.

IESO 2026: Key Highlights (Detailed Table)

IESO Registration Dates 2026 (Latest Official Notice – Complete Update)

The IESO 2026 registration period is stated quite explicitly in the official reminder, and the students should not miss these deadlines. The Centre Registration and Student Registration also differ in the time schedules, and being punctual in the process is paramount to appearing in the IESO Entrance test 2026.

Centre Registration Window (For Schools & Institutions)

10 November 2025 to 10 December 2025

During this period, schools, coaching institutes and well-known educational centres are obliged to apply with the aim of registering themselves as official examination centres. The IESO Entrance Test can only be administered in these approved centres, and they also receive applications from students. Centres would be expected to place all information at the right location on time.

Student Registration (For Individual Students)

10 November 2025 to 25 December 2025

Students seeking to appear for the IESO 2026 Entrance Test will have to register at an approved centre. Only an already registered centre will be accepted in case of the application. The students would be expected to complete the right information, post the necessary documents before the deadline and pay the fees.

Official Registration Portal (Must-Use Website)

gsi.manageexam.com

Both students and centres must use only the official portal for filling out the IESO 2026 registration form. This ensures correct information, avoids fake websites, and prevents errors during the application process.

IESO Entrance Test 2026: Complete Exam Details

The first and most significant phase of India’s national selection process for choosing the student who will attend the International Earth Science Olympiad is the IESO Entrance Test 2026. The test assesses your conceptual knowledge of sciences related to the Earth in the format of an objective-type examination.

IESO Entrance Test Date & Exam Pattern 2026

Note: The entrance test is designed to check your clarity of concepts, analytical ability, and basic understanding of different branches of Earth science.

Subjects Covered in IESO Entrance Test 2026

You will be tested on the following subjects:

• Geology
• Geophysics
• Meteorology
• Oceanography
• Terrestrial Astronomy
• Environmental Science

Note: These topics ensure that students understand the Earth as a complete system — including its structure, weather, oceans, space environment, and ecological balance.

IESO 2026 Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply

To appear for the IESO Entrance Test 2026 and represent India at the international level, students must fulfill the following eligibility requirements:

• Class Requirement: You should be studying in Class IX, X, XI, or XII during August 2026.
• Age Limit: You must have been born on or after 1st July 2007.
• Subject Interest: A strong interest in Earth sciences, including geology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy, and environmental science, is required.
• Participation Intent: You should be willing and motivated to participate in IESO 2026 and related training programs.

Any student who meets these criteria can confidently apply for the IESO Entrance Test 2026 and begin their journey toward representing India internationally.

IESO 2026 Selection Process: Full 4-Stage Structure

The IESO selection procedure in India is aimed at confirming the most intelligent students in Earth sciences and training them for a contest in an international competition. According to the official notice, this process is divided into four main stages and includes theory and practical skills, teamwork, and real-world Earth science applications.

Stage 1: National Level Entrance Test (ET)

• Objective-type exam
• Tests conceptual understanding, basics of Earth science, and logical reasoning
• Qualifiers move to the Training Camp

Stage 2: Training Camp & INESO

3-week residential camp (May–June 2026)

• Lectures, practicals, fieldwork, group discussions, poster presentations
• INESO exam is conducted at the end
• Top 4 students selected for Team India

Stage 3: Pre-Departure Training Camp

• 1-week intensive preparation
• Focus on team coordination, advanced concepts, cultural learning, and presentation skills

Stage 4: International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO 2026)

• Compete with 30–40 countries
• Activities: theory exams, practical tests, fieldwork, and group projects
• Students showcase India’s talent globally

Quick Table Summary:

IESO 2026 Syllabus Overview

The IESO 2026 syllabus has major subjects, which are Geosphere, Atmosphere, Hydrosphere, and Astronomy. Teaching topics are minerals and rocks, descriptions of the Earth’s plates, the various types of weather systems, the movement of oceans, and the location of the Earth as compared to other things. The syllabus will adopt a systems approach and encourage students to explore how various parts of the Earth are connected to each other. The idea suggests assisting learners in acquiring good critical thinking and mastering the Earth sciences. 

IESO 2026 Exam Pattern

The 2026 International Earth Science Olympiad is organized using a four-part selection process. This exam tests what students have learned and can do in Earth sciences based on both theory and hands-on activities. The IESO hopes to increase students’ interest in Earth sciences.

Note:

• Exam Duration: 90 minutes
• Exam Mode: Offline
• Question Type: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
• Language: English
• Components:
  • Theory exam
  • Practical lab work
  • Field observations
  • Group presentations

India’s Outstanding Performance in IESO 2025

India showcased excellent talent and preparation at IESO 2025, held in Jining, China from 8–16 August 2025.

India’s Medal Tally – 2025

• 3 Silver Medals
• 1 Bronze Medal

Students Who Represented India

• Rayansh Gupta
• Charuvrat Bains
• Apam Nidhi Pandey
• Priyanshi Ghangas

These remarkable achievements reflect the strength of India’s training programs, dedication of the students, and the effectiveness of national-level preparation for international Earth science competitions.

Preparation Tips for IESO 2026 – Score High & Qualify

Preparing for IESO 2026 requires a mix of concept clarity, practical understanding, and analytical thinking. Here are the most effective tips for students.

1. Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly

• Focus on Geology, Geophysics, Meteorology, Oceanography, Terrestrial Astronomy, and Environmental Science.
• Use the official GSI syllabus to cover all topics and avoid missing key areas.

2. Practice Objective Questions

• Solve previous year IESO and INESO question papers.
• Practice MCQs regularly to improve speed and accuracy.

3. Focus on Conceptual Clarity

• Don’t just memorize facts; understand concepts like tectonic plates, weather patterns, ocean currents, and ecosystems.
• Relate concepts to real-world Earth science problems.

4. Hands-On Learning

• Perform small experiments, field observations, or data analysis wherever possible.
• Participate in science projects and group discussions to strengthen practical knowledge.

5. Time Management & Revision

• Make a study timetable and allocate time for theory, practice, and revision.
• Revise key concepts and formulas before the exam.

6. Stay Updated

• Keep track of environmental news, natural disasters, climate updates, and scientific discoveries.
• Helps in answering application-based questions in the exam.

7. Mock Tests & Self-Assessment

• Take mock tests to simulate exam conditions.
• Analyze mistakes and work on weak areas.

Benefits of Participating in IESO 2026

Participating in the International Earth Science Olympiad (IESO) 2026 offers students academic recognition, skill development, and international exposure. Here’s why every Earth science enthusiast should take part.

1. Academic Recognition

• Boosts your profile for college admissions, scholarships, and science competitions.
• Adds credibility to your academic achievements at a national and international level.

2. Skill Development

• Enhances analytical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific approach.
• Improves practical skills, data interpretation, and teamwork.

3. International Exposure

• Interact with students, teachers, and scientists from 30+ countries.
• Gain experience in global scientific collaboration.

4. Research & Career Opportunities

• Opens doors to geology, environmental science, climate studies, and space research.
• Provides hands-on experience for future research and scientific careers.

5. Real-World Scientific Understanding

• Learn through fieldwork, experiments, and problem-solving.
• Develop a deep understanding of Earth systems and environmental challenges.

IESO 2026 is more than just an exam it’s a platform to grow academically, develop skills, and represent India internationally.