Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge
Preparing Young Minds for a Quantum Future
For high school and university students worldwide
Join The Challenge
The Qualification Round 2026 is currently ongoing. Don't miss your chance to participate.
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Deadline: Friday, 15 May 2026, 23:59 UTC+0
The Rounds
Qualification Round
Deadline: 15 May 2026
Solve 5 quantum mechanics problems at home. Open to all students worldwide. Some of the problems test your knowledge, others require calculations. Each problem gives 5 points, and to qualify for the Semi-Final Round, you have to score at least 12/14/17 points based on your age group to qualify.
All participants receive participation certificates. Digitally typed solutions receive special notes: Prizes & Awards
Semi-Finals
June 2026
Qualifiers study real research papers in Quantum Physics and solve advanced problems. This round is a supervised 60 minute exam. All participants who are qualified & registered for the Semi-Final Round will receive the materials via email and via their participant account on Wednesday, 24 June 2026.
This year's registration costs are 8 EUR: Learn More . There is financial aid available to help socio-economically disadvantaged participants to cover their registration costs: Financial Aid
Final Exam
Sunday, 26 July 2026
Participants who have successfully passed the Semi-Final Round are qualified for the Final Round: a supervised exam with around 20 questions taking place globally on Sunday, 26 July 2026.
The exam features different problem formats, including free-form problems and multiple-choice responses. It requires knowledge of quantum mechanics and the content of all previous rounds.
More information about all three rounds: Process and Rounds
Why Participate?
Knowledge
Explore topics like wave mechanics, quantum tunnelling, and spin dynamics. Semi-Finals will include real scientific papers, so you are prepared for the world of tomorrow!
Learn MoreCreativity
Each year features original problems crafted by domain experts. Develop critical thinking skills and learn to approach problems from unique angles.
Learn MoreCommunity
Connect with like-minded students who share your enthusiasm for the quantum world. Stand out on university applications and demonstrate commitment to STEM excellence.
Learn MorePrizes
Over $1500 USD in prizes, certificates for all participants, and recognition for top performers worldwide. Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals for each age group.
Learn MoreAwards & Prizes
A total prize pool of over $1,500 USD.
- International Gold Top 5%
- International Silver Top 15%
- International Bronze Top 30%
- National Awards Best in Country
- Ambassador Awards 7 Awards
- Teacher Awards 3 Awards
- School Awards 3 Awards
Participation Certificates
All participants receive official certificates recognizing their achievement in the Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge 2026.
View All AwardsGet Involved
For Teachers
Register as a teacher to monitor your students' progress, supervise exams, receive teacher-specific certificates, and handle group registrations for the Semi-Final Round. Access training materials and classroom-ready resources.
- View student results and documents
- Cover registration costs for groups
- Access teaching materials & problem sets
- Eligible for Teacher Awards
You can also register your school:
School PartnershipsBecome an Ambassador
Are you a student leader? Apply to be a local ambassador and bring the competition to your school or region. Inspire students for quantum physics and prove your skills as a coordinator in a global network.
- Official Ambassador Certificate
- Priority consideration for financial aid
- Recognition on website & social media
- Eligible for Ambassador Awards
Looking for an ambassador in your region?
Find Ambassadors by Country
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn about quantum mechanics and how to participate: About GQMC
General Information
What is GQMC?
Quantum mechanics is one of the most fascinating and fundamental branches of modern physics, governing the behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales. From wave-particle duality and quantum entanglement to superposition and the uncertainty principle, quantum mechanics has transformed our understanding of reality and underpins much of modern technology. The Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge embraces this spirit of discovery and gives students the opportunity to deepen their understanding of quantum mechanics and to explore this captivating subject beyond what the typical school curriculum has to offer.
What makes GQMC unique?
Internationality, Digital Accessibility, Real-World Research, Adjusted Difficulty, Online Tools for Teachers, Supportive Alumni Network, and more. All details are available here: About GQMC
I have already participated. Should I participate again?
Yes, of course!
Are teams allowed?
Everyone has to submit their own solution papers in all rounds. However, for the Qualification Round, you are allowed to work on the problems with your friends and classmates together. Working together or receiving help from other people is not permitted in the Semi-Final and Final Round. You can find more about rules and cheating policy here: Cheating Policy
Where do I find the problems of last year's competition?
You can find them here: Training Problems
How can I prepare for the competition?
You can learn more here: Training Problems
How can others see that I am an Ambassador without a certificate?
You have a public profile on our website, which clearly indicates your Ambassador role. Additionally, you are listed on our team page and you also have an Ambassador email address. If needed for your activities, our team can also be contacted to confirm your Ambassador role.
Will there be verification codes on the certificates?
Yes, all of your GQMC certificates have verification IDs. This enables others to verify the authenticity of the certificates and documents: Verification page
How does GQMC compare to other science competitions?
Comparing GQMC to other science competitions can be misleading: GQMC does not intend to be an alternative to established competitions (e.g., Physics or Science Olympiads) or their national variations, and actively encourages students to take part in such opportunities.
Instead, GQMC serves as a supplementary program designed to engage a wide range of students, particularly those just beginning to develop an interest in quantum mechanics and related scientific subjects. It focuses on accessibility, making it a platform for students of all skill levels to explore and grow their understanding of quantum mechanics and scientific reasoning.
Learn more on this page: About GQMC
Instead, GQMC serves as a supplementary program designed to engage a wide range of students, particularly those just beginning to develop an interest in quantum mechanics and related scientific subjects. It focuses on accessibility, making it a platform for students of all skill levels to explore and grow their understanding of quantum mechanics and scientific reasoning.
Learn more on this page: About GQMC
How is the Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge organized?
The Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge is an independent educational program. More information about the history, organization, and funding is available here: About GQMC
How is this international competition funded?
Such an international competition has several expenses, including human resources, technical infrastructure, materials, and much more. The costs are covered by sponsors and partners as well as through the participants via the Semi-Final Round registration costs: More Information. Financial aid is available to assist socio-economically disadvantaged participants: Financial Aid.
Where is the competition located? What is the address of GQMC?
The Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge takes place primarily online and is accessible to students around the world; you do not need to travel somewhere to participate. The organizing team is constantly evolving, with most team members and technical infrastructure being located in Germany. There are also many other people around the world, such as the GQMC Ambassadors, who do their best to make this competition a valuable experience. More information and contact details are available here: Contact Information
What study materials and resources are available?
The training page gives tips, book recommendations, and a comprehensive collection of problems from previous years: Training and Preparation. Additional resources and links related to quantum mechanics are available here: Resources and Links. This also includes the following: Videos, Lecture Notes, Presentations, and Infographics. We also provide a list of special resources for teachers and educators: Teaching.
Where can I find all deadlines and important dates of this year's edition?
All details are available on the Process & Rounds pages, and a summary of all deadlines is available in this document: Timetable & Deadlines Flyer
Why can I not log into my participant account from last year?
Participant accounts stay active only for a limited time after the Final Round has been completed. All participant accounts will be deleted at the beginning of each new edition of the year. If you need to recover your old certificates, please contact us.
When do the solutions of the last edition get published?
The solutions are usually published on our training page a few weeks after the Final Round of the last edition has concluded. You can find the training page here: Training Problems
Eligibility
Who can participate?
All current high school and university students are allowed to participate. However, there are different age groups: Age Groups
Are high school students and university students allowed to participate?
Yes.
My age or grade changes after the submission deadline. To which group do I belong?
Your grade/age on the day of the submission deadline of the Qualification Round (i.e., 15 May 2026) determines your age group, and it will not change throughout the competition.
What is the difference between the age groups?
Current high school and university students from all grades and countries are eligible to participate in three groups:
- Junior: 10th Grade and below (and < 16 years of age)
- Youth: 11th to 13th Grade (or ≥ 16 years of age)
- Senior: 1st Year College/University and higher (or ≥ 19 years of age)
Do I have to be a student to participate?
Yes, you have to be a student in a high school or a university to participate. If you are currently between high school and university (e.g., gap year) and plan to start university any time soon, you are also eligible to participate.
Prizes and Awards
How much is the total prize?
The prizes and awards are worth a total of 1500 USD: All Awards and Prizes
Do all participants receive certificates?
Yes, we will send participation certificates (soft copy) to all participants regardless of the results.
How many prizes and awards are there?
You can find more information about the awards and prizes here: All Awards and Prizes
What is the 'Special Honour for digital Submission'?
All participants who use professional computer programs (e.g., TeX) to write down their solutions receive a special honorary note on their certificates.
What are the national awards?
Since the Global Quantum Mechanics Challenge is a global competition with participants from various countries, we honour the best students from each participating nation with a special national award certificate
How can I receive my results and certificates?
We will send all results & certificates via e-mail, and they are accessible through your participant account: Login
Do I need to win to receive a certificate?
No, all participants (regardless of the results) receive certificates.
Do I receive a hard copy of my certificate?
We will send hard copies of the certificates to all international 1st, 2nd and 3rd Prize winners. All other participants, including the Finalists, will receive a soft copy version of the certificates, which also includes a permanent verification-ID (glqmc.org/verify).
Are there awards for teachers and schools?
Yes, there are school awards to honour the efforts of the teachers and the schools. The awards are not connected to a cash prize. Teachers who supervise students in the Final Round receive a certificate for their commitment. All Awards & Prizes
How does a school win one of the school awards?
Schools participate automatically if a student registers with the school's name. (Please make sure that all of your students write the school name correctly and in the same format.)
Are there awards for Ambassadors?
Yes, you can find more information here: All Awards and Prizes
Who receives the Gold, Silver and Bronze Honours in the Final Round?
Participants who receive at least 50% of the total points in the Final Round are awarded, depending on their relative score, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Honours in the ratios of 1:2:3. Therefore, around 16% and 34% of the participants receive a Gold and Silver Honour, respectively. All other students (with at least 50% of the total points) receive a Bronze Honour.
How can I change my name or details of an old certificate?
We cannot modify or reissue any documents from past editions.
When do my award documents arrive?
The international award winners receive hard-copy certificates, which are shipped to their home address, as well as all participants who request a Finalist Package. The packages are prepared and shipped, typically two weeks after the announcement of the Final Round. Dispatched documents usually arrive within two weeks. As international shipping times can vary significantly, it may take up to two months for the documents to arrive. A shipment confirmation is sent out as soon as the documents are in transit.
Submission and Qualification Round
What should the submitted file include?
The submission should include the solution to the problems of the Qualification Round 2026. Depending on your age group, you need a certain number of points to qualify for the next round: Age Groups. You do not need to include your personal information (such as name, school, e-mail, etc.).
Do I have to write my answers on the problem sheet?
No. You can (a) write your answers in the blank space below the questions. However, you can also (b) write your solutions on a separate sheet of paper or (c) type your solution on a computer. In cases (b) and (c), you do not need to write down the wording of the problems again.
Do I have to write down the steps or only the final solution?
Please write down your approach and the steps you performed (such as mathematical operations).
Which file formats are allowed?
We accept PDF files and picture files. We do not accept any other formats, including Word and ZIP files.
Do I need to register somewhere before I can submit my solution?
No, you participate in GQMC by submitting your solution.
Why was my submission deleted?
Some submissions will be deleted during the evaluation process due to one of the following reasons: (1) It was not possible for us to open your file. In this case, you usually receive an e-mail from us. (2) The file was unrelated to GQMC or did not contain any solutions and was thus regarded as spam. (3) The file barely contains any solutions to the problems and was thus regarded as spam, e.g. files that contain only answers to one problem written in a poorly formatted way are usually deleted.
How can I change my name and other personal information?
To change your personal information, please use the login page and click on 'Edit Details'. You can no longer change your details after the Semi-Final Round.
Do I have to write my answers in English?
While English is the recommended language, you can write your solution in any of the languages in which the GQMC website is available (English, German, Arabic, Japanese, Chinese, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Korean)
I have problems uploading my file. What should I do?
(1) Check whether your submission was already successful on this page: Login. (2) If your submission/e-mail was not found, use a different browser, use a different computer or laptop, or try to compress your file. (3) If nothing works, please get in touch with us.
What are the time zones of the deadlines?
The time zone is UTC+0 for all deadlines.
When will the results of the Qualification Round be announced?
The results of the Qualification Round will be announced on Saturday, 30 May 2026. You will receive an information e-mail and you can view your results online by this date: Login
When is the deadline for the Qualification Round?
The submission deadline is Friday, 15 May 2026, 23:59 UTC+0.
Can I edit or change my submission (after I submitted it)?
Yes, until the submission deadline, Friday, 15 May 2026. Please log into your participant account and click on 'Edit Details'.
Can I send you my solution via e-mail?
No, we do not accept any submissions or solutions that we receive via e-mail. You have to submit your solution via the official submission form: Submission
How can I check my submission and results?
Via your participant account: Login
Do I need to solve all problems of the Qualification Round?
No. You do not need all points to qualify for the next round. The number of points required depends on your age group (Age Groups).
How long should the text answer for Problem E be?
We expect a sufficiently comprehensive answer that outlines what you believe is necessary to answer the question. The space provided on the page is usually enough when having medium-sized handwriting. More comprehensive answers are welcome.
Semi-Final Round
How does the Semi-Final Round take place?
The Semi-Final Round consists of two phases: (1) Preparation Phase: Starting on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, all qualified and registered participants will receive a research paper via email and their participant account. You should read and familiarize yourself with this paper. (2) Exam Phase: Between %PFExam% and Sunday, 28 June 2026, you will take a supervised 60-minute exam via the online exam platform at https://glqmc.org/exam. The exam includes three problems: two Calculation Problems (5 points each) that test your problem-solving skills and require mathematical calculations, and one Research Problem (10 points) based on the research paper from the Preparation Phase. You will solve your answers on paper and then scan and upload them.
Do I need to solve all five problems to qualify for the Semi-Final Round?
No. You do not need all points to qualify for the Semi-Final Round. The number of points required depends on your age group (Age Groups).
How are the problems of the Semi-Final Round structured?
All details are available here: Process & Rounds
Can I only participate in the Qualification Round and not in the Semi-Final Round?
Yes, you can participate in the Qualification Round and receive your participation certificate without registering for the Semi-Final Round.
What is the deadline for the Semi-Final Round?
You can find all relevant deadlines here: Timetable and Deadlines
Does my teacher need a stamp on the teacher registration form?
No, a stamp is not required for the Semi-Final Round. Teachers register online at https://glqmc.org/teacherinfo and do not need to submit any physical forms or stamps. The GQMC team will review and approve or reject the teacher registration within a few days.
Can my teacher supervise me online (via Zoom, etc.)?
No. A teacher must supervise the Semi-Final Round Exam in person. The teacher is not allowed to supervise you via an online call (for example, Zoom or Skype). If you do not have a teacher available, please use the online supervision system instead.
What should the photo show that my teacher has to take?
You can find examples here: https://glqmc.org/docs/GQMC_Photo_Examples.pdf. The photo should show the exam conditions and environment, including the student taking the exam in front of the device and the device screen displaying the exam.
I had technical issues. Can I do the exam again or continue later?
No. You must ensure that there is a steady internet connection during the exam and that your browser is up-to-date. You are responsible for any technical issues. It is not possible to pause, continue, or retake the exam once you have started.
Can I complete the exam in less than 60 minutes?
Yes. You have up to 60 minutes to complete the exam, but you may finish earlier if you complete all problems before time runs out.
Can I bring blank paper and pens during the exam?
Yes, you are allowed to bring blank sheets of paper (not more than twenty) and pens (not more than three) to write your solutions during the exam. You should use a new sheet of paper for each problem and write the problem number at the top of every page.
I have no teacher to supervise the exam. What should I do?
If you do not have a teacher available to supervise your Semi-Final Round Exam, you can use the online supervision system. You will need a computer, laptop, or phone with a webcam (exam device), a second phone with a camera and microphone (supervision phone), and a valid government-issued ID or passport. You will select an exam timeslot, complete the setup and verification steps, and take the exam under online supervision. More details can be found in the Semi-Final Round information document.
Can I do the exam on my phone?
Yes, you can take the Semi-Final Round Exam on your phone. However, if you use your phone as your exam device and choose the online supervision option, you will need a second phone for the supervision system. For this reason, we strongly recommend using a laptop or computer for the exam.
How does my teacher approve my Semi-Final Round Exam?
After you log in to the Semi-Final Round Exam platform at https://glqmc.org/exam, an approval code will be displayed on your screen. Your teacher must enter this code into a form that appears in their teacher account to approve and start your exam.
Do teachers need to enter the approval codes of all participants?
If a teacher supervises multiple students at once and the participants start the exam simultaneously, it is sufficient to enter only a single approval code if all participants arrive at the approval page in the Semi-Final Round Exam platform.
Who can supervise the Semi-Final Round Exam?
The person supervising your Semi-Final Round Exam must be an active teacher (not retired) employed at a government-accredited school or university. The teacher must currently be an active teacher or professor and must not be related to you (no family members). The teacher must be able to prove their employment and teaching duties.
How do I qualify for the Final Round?
To qualify for the Final Round, you must score at least 16/20/24 points out of 36 possible points in the Semi-Final Round. The Semi-Final Round consists of three problems: two Calculation Problems (5 points each) and one Research Problem (10 points).
How can I access the Semi-Final Round Exam?
If you have successfully qualified from the Qualification Round and registered for the Semi-Final Round, you can access the exam platform at https://glqmc.org/exam by logging in with your GQMC participant account credentials during the exam period (between %PFExam% and Sunday, 28 June 2026).
What should I do in case of technical difficulties during the exam?
First, inform your supervisor (if using teacher supervision). Take screenshots of the encountered issue if possible, then try to reload the exam page (and log in again if necessary). After the exam, if we detect any time irregularities, you will have the option to explain any technical issues that occurred.
What should I do with the approval code at the beginning of the Semi-Final Round Exam?
The approval code is used to verify that you are currently being supervised by your teacher. You need to give this code to your teacher so they can enter it into their teacher account to approve and start your exam. After successful verification, the exam will automatically progress to the next page.
How can my teacher register?
Your teacher must register online at https://glqmc.org/teacherinfo. The GQMC team will review the registration and approve or reject the teacher within a few days.
Can you refer me to some teachers who can supervise my Semi-Final Round Exam?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide you with teachers to supervise your Semi-Final Round Exam. Please contact teachers at your school or other nearby schools. If you cannot find a teacher, you can use the online supervision system instead.
Does the teacher have to be from my school?
No. The teacher can be from any government-accredited school or university, as long as they meet the requirements (active teacher, not retired, not related to you).
Does the teacher have to be a quantum mechanics teacher?
No. The teacher can teach any subject, as long as they are an active teacher at a government-accredited school or university.
There are multiple Semi-Final Round participants in my school. Can we have the same teacher?
Yes. A single teacher may supervise the exam for multiple participants at the same time. If there are other Semi-Final Round participants from your school, it is required that the same teacher supervises all students simultaneously. Please contact your teacher and inform them about the other participants.
My teacher was rejected as a supervisor. What should I do?
Please ask another teacher who meets the requirements and can prove their employment at a government-accredited school or university. The rejected teacher can also register again with additional or corrected information or documents if something was missing from their initial registration.
What materials and tools are allowed for the Semi-Final Round?
You can bring blank sheets of paper (not more than twenty) and pens (not more than three) to write your solutions during the exam. You may also bring something to drink. No other materials or tools are allowed. You are not allowed to bring your own copy of the research paper, but it will be available in the exam interface. Your computer, laptop, or phone must only be used to access the exam platform at https://glqmc.org/exam.
What is the preparation phase?
The preparation phase begins on Wednesday, 24 June 2026 when all qualified and registered Semi-Final Round participants receive a research paper via email and through their participant account. During this phase, you should read and familiarize yourself with the research paper, as one of the exam problems (the Research Problem worth 10 points) will require you to read a short scientific research paper, learn about recent scientific results, and apply concepts from this paper. This gives you the chance to get in touch with real-world scientific research. The paper is in English, but you may use translation tools and AI to help you understand the material.
Will the research paper be in different languages?
The research paper is provided in English only. However, you may use translation tools and AI to help you comprehend the material and translate it into your preferred language.
Will the questions of the Semi-Final Round Exam be in different languages?
The exam questions will be available in multiple languages. The specific languages available will be displayed in the exam interface when you log in.
How will I scan my handwritten answers after the exam?
After the 60-minute exam finishes, you will have 10 minutes to upload clear scans of your written solutions using your phone. You will scan a QR code shown on the exam screen, which will take you to the upload interface. If you use your phone to take the exam, you will need a second phone for scanning and uploading. This is why we strongly recommend using a laptop or computer for the exam itself. Make sure to write clearly, use a new sheet of paper for each problem, and write the problem number at the top of every page.
Will my exam also be recorded if a teacher supervises me?
No. If you choose teacher supervision (Option A), your exam will not be recorded via webcam or phone. Your teacher will supervise you in person and take a photo of the exam conditions during the exam. The online supervision system with webcam and phone recording is only used if you choose the supervision without teacher option (Option B).
Final Round
Must the video recording have sound?
Yes, the video must include the surrounding sound.
I want to record my exam. Does a teacher need to register for me?
No. If you choose to record the exam, you do not need a teacher. Thus, no teacher needs to register or add you as a student.
Who can film my exam?
The person filming must not be a participant of GQMC. It should be a family or household member. You can also film the exam yourself without the help of another person.
Can I film the exam myself (without another person)?
Yes, a camera stand or tripod can be used to film the exam. In this case, please enter your name in the 'Full Name' field and 'NA' in the 'Relationship' field during the exam process.
How can I upload the video of my recorded exam?
After you are done with your exam, you will see a window titled 'Final Exam Video Upload' at the bottom of the participant login page. There, you can upload a link to your video. (You have to upload the video to a cloud or storage site first; for example, Google Drive, Dropbox, and others).
What is the deadline for the video upload?
Please upload the link to the video as soon as you are done with the exam. The last possible day is Tuesday, 28 July 2026.
My camera/phone cannot film for 20 minutes. What should I do?
It is allowed to have short cuts (under 5 seconds) within the video (e.g., to stop and restart the video) such that you have multiple shorter videos. You can cut the videos together into a single long video, or you can send us a link to a folder with all the videos. Also, you can proceed to the next question even before the 60 seconds are over.
Does my teacher need a stamp on the teacher form?
Yes. If your teacher cannot get a stamp on the teacher form, there are multiple possibilities. If they have already supervised exams during past editions of GQMC, your teacher can submit the current form without a stamp and attach a form from previous editions which has a stamp. If not, your teacher can write 'Not Possible Due To ...' in the stamp field (and state the reason). However, we will request the missing stamp later (in case you score very high results or we detect any other suspicious activities).
What should the recorded video show?
Examples ➚. The video has to clearly show (a) yourself in front of the computer/laptop/phone and (b) the exam content on the screen. For example, you can open the exam website on your desk and sit in front of it. Another person films you doing the exam from behind at a distance of 1–2 metres. The video shows you (from behind) doing the exam and the screen with you selecting the answers. Of course, it is also possible to film yourself from the side or any other angle (as long as you and the content on the screen are visible). Your face can be visible in the video, but this is not a requirement.
What should the photo show that my teacher has to take?
You can find examples here: Photo Examples ➚. The picture should show the exam conditions/environment. That means the student taking the exam / in front of the device and the device screen.
Can I skip questions and complete the exam under 20 minutes?
Yes, you can answer/skip a question in under 60 seconds.
Can I bring a blank piece of paper and a pen during the exam?
Yes, you are allowed to bring a blank piece of paper and a pencil for note-taking during the exam.
Does my family/household member need to register to film the exam?
No, if you choose the recording option, you only need to write down the name of the person. The person filming does not need to register somewhere.
I have no teacher to supervise the exam. What should I do?
Please use the recording option in this case. To do this, please start the exam during the exam period (see information flyer or e-mail) and select the recording option when the approval screen appears. You then have to specify a person filming the exam (you can also film yourself). You can find more information in the Final Round flyer and in the information video (see the announcement e-mail or your participant account).
Can I do the exam on my phone?
Yes, it is allowed to do the exam on your phone.
How does my teacher get the approval code?
The approval code will be displayed on the participant's screen after they log in to the Final Round Exam platform. Then, the teacher must enter the code into a form that appears in their account.
Do teachers need to enter the approval codes of all participants?
If a teacher supervises multiple students at once and the participants start the exam simultaneously, it is sufficient to enter only a single approval code if all participants arrive at the approval page in the Final Round Exam platform.
Does the teacher have to be a science teacher?
No.
How does the Final Round take place?
Participants who have solved the Semi-Final Round problems successfully are qualified to participate in the Final Round: a multiple-choice online exam with 20 questions. The exam will take place in the school of each Finalist, supervised by a teacher. All Finalists have to select a teacher who agrees to supervise the Final Exam. We will send all the required information to the selected teacher. The Final Exam has to be taken on the Sunday, 26 July 2026 between 4-6 pm. You can also record the exam (self-recording option). In this case, no teacher is needed.
How many questions does the Final Round have?
The Final Round consists of a single online exam with 20 questions. Finalists have 60 seconds for each question. There are four possible answers to every question (only one is correct). A correct answer equals one point. The awards and prizes are given to the Finalists with the most points in the Final Round.
What kind of questions/topics will be asked in the Final Exam?
The exam consists of 20 questions. Most of them are knowledge questions that test your general knowledge in quantum mechanics. All standard quantum mechanics topics are included.
Who can supervise the Final Exam?
The person supervising your Final Exam must be an active teacher (i.e. not retired) at some officially recognized school or university, and the person must be able to prove his employment at a school and his teaching duty.
How can my teacher register?
Your teacher has to register online: Teacher Registration Page
Can you refer me to some teachers who can supervise my Final Exam?
Unfortunately, we cannot provide you with teachers who can take your Final Exam. Please get in touch with the teachers of your school or teachers of other regional schools. Also, you can use the self-recording option in this case and conduct the exam yourself without a teacher.
Does the teacher have to be from my school?
No
How to qualify for the Final Round?
Please see 'Semi-Final Round' here: Process & Rounds
There are multiple Finalists in my school. Can we have the same teacher?
Absolutely yes. If there are multiple students that participate in the Final Round in your school, it is important that the same teacher takes the Final Exam for all students at the same time! Please contact your teacher and inform them about the other participants.
My teacher was rejected as a supervisor. What should I do?
Please ask another teacher who can prove to hold the exam as an independent authority. The rejected teacher can also register again with other documents (e.g., in case some information or documents are missing).
What help/tools are allowed for the Final Round?
You can bring blank paper and a pencil to take notes during the exam. No other tools are allowed. The computer/laptop/phone must only be used to open the Final Exam website.
What if two participants have the same number of points in the Final Round?
In this case, the results of the Semi-Final round and of the Qualification Round will be used to determine the final winner based on the total points. If the tie remains, both participants will receive the same award and split the cash prize. However, this has never happened before.
When will the final winners be announced?
The results of the Final Round and GQMC 2026 will be announced on Saturday, 1 August 2026.
I had technical issues. Can I do the exam again or continue later?
No. You have to make sure that there is a steady internet connection during the exam and that your browser is up-to-date. You are responsible for any recording or filming mistakes. It is not possible to pause, continue or re-take the exam once you have started.
Can my teacher supervise me online (via Zoom, etc.)?
No. A teacher must supervise the exam in person. The teacher is not allowed to supervise you via an online call (for example, Zoom or Skype). If you do not have a teacher available, please use the self-recording option and record your exam.
How to collect my prize or award?
We will use international shipping to deliver all of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd prizes; there is no need to travel somewhere. The national awards and final round honours will be sent digitally as a soft copy.
Registration Costs
Do I need to pay something to participate?
The GQMC competition is free to enter for all students from around the world. However, all students who have qualified and want to register for the Semi-Final Round have to cover the registration costs of 8 EUR to make this year's competition possible. You can find further information here: More Information. Financial aid is available to assist socio-economically disadvantaged participants: Financial Aid.
Why are there the 'Semi-Final Registration Costs'?
This educational opportunity comes with diverse costs, including those for human resources, technical infrastructure, materials and more. While our sponsors cover some of these expenses, we need to ask participants to cover this year's Semi-Final Round registration costs to make GQMC on an international level possible. The registration costs are necessary to provide the resources for the evaluation and, in particular, for the comprehensive Semi-Final Round. There are no other costs involved. You can find detailed information about the registration costs here: More Information. Financial aid is available to assist socio-economically disadvantaged participants: Financial Aid.
How much are the registration costs?
This year's Semi-Final Round registration costs are 8 EUR: More Information.
Are there any other costs or fees in other rounds?
No, the registration costs for the Semi-Final Round are the only costs that have to be covered by participants of this year's competition.
Do I have to pay if I participate in the Qualification Round?
If you are successful in the Qualification Round, you can decide whether you want to register for the Semi-Final Round or not. You will always receive a certificate of your results in the Qualification Round.
Can I only participate in the Qualification Round and not in the Semi-Final Round?
Yes, you can participate in the Qualification Round and receive your participation certificate without registering for the Semi-Final Round.
How to pay the registration costs?
We will inform all successful participants of the Qualification Round about the registration process for the Semi-Final Round. The registration costs have to be covered before the Semi-Final Round starts if you want to participate. The costs can be covered by any common payment method, such as PayPal or credit card.
Can I pay the registration costs in my currency?
Yes, the currency will be converted automatically to EUR during the payment process.
Are there fee waivers, financial aid, or scholarships available?
Yes, financial aid is available to assist socio-economically disadvantaged participants. We are continuously searching for additional partners who will help us reduce the overall costs further. There are some fee waivers, reductions, and regional sponsorships available each year. Qualified participants will be informed on how to apply for financial aid, along with the announcement of the Qualification Round: Financial Aid.
Is it possible to cover the costs for a group/class of students?
Yes, we provide a group payment page for teachers and schools to cover the Semi-Final registration costs for multiple participants at the same time (as a group).
Online Supervision System
What should the supervision phone show?
You can find examples here: https://glqmc.org/docs/GQMC_Photo_Examples.pdf. The supervision phone must be positioned to capture: (a) your upper body and partial face, (b) your hands and the sheets of paper in front of you, and (c) the screen of your exam device. The phone should be placed to your left or right side, slightly behind you, at an angle that allows the camera to clearly capture all three elements. You may use stable materials or stands to position your phone at an acceptable angle.
Must the supervision phone have sound?
Yes, the supervision phone's microphone must be enabled to record the surrounding sound during the exam.
How will I know which exam timeslot I have if I am using the online supervision system?
You will receive a link via email and through your participant account when timeslot selection opens. Timeslots are available at regular intervals throughout the exam period. Each timeslot can accommodate a limited number of participants, and they are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, so we recommend selecting your slot early. Once you select a timeslot, you will know exactly when to log in to begin your exam.
What is needed to take the exam without a teacher?
To take the exam using the online supervision system, you will need: (1) A computer, laptop, or phone with a webcam (exam device), (2) A second phone with a working camera and microphone (supervision phone), and (3) A valid government-issued ID card or passport. All devices must be connected to the internet and have sufficient battery or be connected to power. You will also need a stable internet connection throughout the exam.
What are the requirements for the exam environment?
If using the online supervision system, the following requirements apply: Only your exam device, ID card, blank sheets of paper, pens, and something to drink are allowed. The room must be closed with the door shut. No notes, posters, or other materials may be in your field of view. No additional phones, monitors, or electronic devices may be present. No other person may be in the room. No noisy environments. No headphones. You are not allowed to leave the exam environment at any time during the exam or before your answers have been scanned and uploaded. Using the restroom is not permitted once the exam has started.
What are the requirements for the supervision phone position?
The supervision phone must be placed to your left or right side, slightly behind you, at an angle that allows the camera to clearly capture: (1) Your upper body and partial face, (2) Your hands and the sheets of paper in front of you, and (3) The screen of your exam device. You can find examples of acceptable angles at https://glqmc.org/docs/GQMC_Photo_Examples.pdf. We recommend preparing and testing your exam setup beforehand. You may use stable materials or stands to position your phone at an acceptable angle.
My phone's battery does not last for the full exam duration. What can I do?
If you are using the online supervision system, you are required to connect your supervision phone to a charging cable during the exam setup. This ensures that your phone remains powered throughout the entire exam and supervision period. Make sure to have a charger and power outlet available before starting the exam.
What if I lose the internet connection or have a power outage?
You are responsible for ensuring a stable internet connection and power supply throughout the exam. It is not possible to pause, continue, or retake the exam once you have started. If you experience internet or power issues during the exam, you may try to reload the exam page and log in again if possible. After the exam, if we detect any time irregularities, you will have the option to explain any technical issues that occurred. However, we recommend ensuring reliable internet and power before starting the exam to avoid any disruptions.
Teachers and Schools
Is there a School Partnership Program?
Yes, you can learn more here: School Partnerships. The GQMC School Partnership Program strengthens our collaboration with schools worldwide, providing them with dedicated tools, support, and recognition for integrating GQMC into their academic activities. Partner Schools enjoy a closer connection to the competition, streamlined participant management, and access to exclusive resources that benefit students, teachers, and the broader school community.
I am a teacher. Can I use this competition in class?
Yes, teachers and schools are invited to share this opportunity with their students. You can use all problems, posters, and materials. The registration form for teachers is available here: Registration
How can I check the results of my students?
We have implemented an online tool to check the submissions and results of your students: Login
Are there awards for teachers and schools?
Yes, there are school awards to honour the efforts of the teachers and the schools. The awards are not connected to a cash prize. Teachers who supervise students in the Final Round receive a certificate for their commitment. All Awards & Prizes
Where can I find more information?
More information is available here: Teacher Information Flyer
Will there be certificates for teachers?
All teachers who supervised the Final Round Exam with students will receive a certificate in recognition of their commitment.
Where can I register as a teacher?
The registration page for teachers is available here: Teacher Registration
Can I cover the registration costs for a group of students?
Yes, we provide a group payment page for teachers and schools to cover the Semi-Final registration costs for multiple participants at the same time (as a group). Group payments can be made here.
How can my teacher add me as a student?
As soon as your teacher is approved, they can log into the teacher account and add you as a student by clicking on the button 'Add Student'. Your teacher has to enter your year of birth and e-mail. Please note that the e-mail must be the exact e-mail with which you are registered for the competition.