Greek Mathematical Olympiad
Greece's national mathematical olympiad, the final selection stage for the IMO team. By invitation only for top Archimedes performers. IMO-style format with 6 problems over 2 days.
Grade Levels
Grades 10-12 (Ages 15-18)
Format
Proof-Based · 6 questions · 2 days, 4.5 hours per session
Scoring
0-7 per problem, maximum 42 points (IMO-style scoring).
Participants
30-80 (by invitation)
April
National Olympiad held April-May
Registration
By invitation based on Archimedes results
Prizes & Recognition
Gold, Silver, Bronze medals. Top 6 students selected for Greece's IMO team. Top female performers considered for EGMO team.
About This Competition
The Greek Mathematical Olympiad (Εθνική Μαθηματική Ολυμπιάδα) is the pinnacle of Greece's mathematical competition pipeline. Held annually in April-May, it mirrors the format of the International Mathematical Olympiad: 6 proof-based problems over 2 days, with 4.5 hours per session and each problem scored 0-7.
Only 30-80 students are invited, based on their Archimedes results. The top 6 performers are selected to represent Greece at the IMO. Greece has participated in the IMO since 1975, earning numerous medals. Strong female performers are also considered for the EGMO team, and top students may represent Greece at the Balkan Mathematical Olympiad (BMO) and Junior BMO.
How to Prepare
Master the Four Olympiad Areas
Focus on algebra, combinatorics, geometry, and number theory. The Greek Mathematical Olympiad draws from all four, so balanced preparation is essential.
Practice Under Timed Conditions
Simulate exam conditions with 4-5 hour sessions. Learning to manage stamina and focus over long periods is as important as mathematical skill.
Train with ISL and Past IMO Shortlists
The IMO Shortlist and past Greek Olympiad problems (available on eme.gr) are the best preparation. Also use Art of Problem Solving for discussion.
Aim for IMO Selection, Learn for Life
The top performers represent Greece at the IMO. Regardless of the outcome, the problem-solving skills you develop will serve you in any career.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are IMO team members selected in Greece?
The top 6 performers at the Greek Mathematical Olympiad are selected for Greece's IMO team. They receive additional training camps and preparation sessions organized by EME before the IMO.
Related Competitions
Pythagoras
The Hellenic Mathematical Society's math skills competition for students in grades 2-9 (elementary and gymnasium). Features 20 multiple-choice questions testing mathematical reasoning, not rote knowledge. Held annually on a single Saturday in March.
Kangourou Greece
The Greek chapter of Math Kangaroo, the world's largest mathematics competition. Open to all grades 1-12 with multiple-choice format and emphasis on making mathematics fun and engaging.
Thales
The first phase of Greece's secondary school math competition pipeline (grades 7-12). Open to all students, with top performers qualifying for Euclid. Proof-based format requiring full written solutions.
Euclid
The second phase of Greece's EME competition pipeline. By invitation only for top Thales performers. More challenging proof-based problems requiring sophisticated mathematical reasoning.
Archimedes
The third and final qualifying stage of Greece's EME pipeline before the National Olympiad. Olympiad-level proof problems for top performers from Euclid.
International Mathematical Olympiad
The oldest and most prestigious international math competition, bringing together top pre-university mathematicians from 100+ countries. Founded in 1959 in Romania.
