In 2026, Iran registered a historic record by winning 18 gold medals at global and international science Olympiads. This success was achieved in wartime conditions and despite educational limitations, disruptions in internet access, and reduced opportunities to use laboratories and practical spaces, showcasing the capabilities of Iranian elite students in global scientific competitions.
Significant Increase in Medals
Seyed Reza Hosseini, head of the Young Researchers Club, emphasized that the number of gold medals won by Iran this year has seen a significant increase compared to last year. Last year, despite participating in two more competitions, Iran won 11 gold medals; however, this number reached 18 in 2026. This growth reflects the efforts of researchers, the scientific capabilities of elites, and the role of specialized support from scientific committees.
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Outstanding Achievements in Global Competitions
One of Iran's most significant scientific achievements in 2026 was winning five gold medals at the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Olympiad. The five-member Iranian team secured the first place in the world for the third consecutive year. Additionally, Iranian students achieved the first to third individual ranks, and all individual awards in this competition went to representatives of our country. The highest theoretical score, first place in the practical section, and the trophy for the highest overall score were also awarded to Iran.
In the International Physics Olympiad, the Iranian team recorded its best result in the last 20 years by winning three gold medals and two silver medals. For the first time, Iran won the trophy for the experimental section of this competition and achieved the first place in the world in this section.
Another historic event in 2026 was Iran's first gold medal at the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad. With this result, Iran joined the ranks of about 10 to 15 countries holding gold medals in this competition. Scientific officials in the country hope that Iran will join the top three countries in the world in this field within the next three years.
In the International Geography Olympiad, the Iranian girls' team achieved the first place in the team presentation section. This success is particularly significant as it marks Iran's first medal in this competition. Additionally, the Iranian representative in the Earth Sciences Olympiad achieved the first rank in the documentary presentation section of the International Union of Geological Sciences.
All these successes have made 2026 one of the historic years for Iran's participation in global science Olympiads. Winning 18 gold medals, setting new records in astronomy and physics, success in artificial intelligence and geography, and increasing Iran's role in managing international competitions present a picture of the scientific capacity of the country's young generation. These results demonstrate that Iranian students can shine at the highest levels of global scientific competitions even under difficult conditions and strengthen Iran's position in the realm of elite education.
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