The International Linguistics Challenge is a global competition based in Germany aimed at engaging students in the science of language. Open to middle school, high school, and university students worldwide, it comprises three online rounds. The Qualification Round deadline is 30 December 2025.
Read Also:
- Apply for the AMSCO Internship Program 2026 for Young Africans
- Ray Oil and Gas Graduate Trainee Program 2025: How to Apply
- Nigerian Law School Scholarship Programme 2026 by Law Et Al for Nigerian Law School Students
- Fully Funded AgriTech Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 for Nigerian Students
- Talent Scout Paid Remote Internship for Nigerian Students (Get Up to $200/Month)
When is the Application Deadline:
30 December 2025 (Qualification Round Submission Deadline)
Tell Me About the Competition:
The International Linguistics Challenge (ILC) is a global linguistics competition that introduces students to the scientific study of language. Participants solve engaging problems covering syntax, phonetics, semantics, morphology, and language patterns—no prior linguistic training required.
Get Up to $100,000 Student Loan for Your Master in US or Canada.
The competition consists of three stages:
- Qualification Round – 5 foundational linguistic problems
- Pre-Final Round – 6 advanced and research-based problems
- Final Round – A supervised online exam determining final rankings and prizes
Participants earn points for their reasoning steps, not just final answers, encouraging analytical thinking.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Linguistics
- Language & Communication
- Logic & Problem-Solving
- General STEM or humanities interest areas are welcome (no academic restriction)
Type:
- Competition | Educational Challenge | Online Learning Program
Who Can Apply?
Open to:
- Middle school students
- High school students
- University/college students worldwide
Age Groups:
- Junior: 10th Grade & below (under 16)
- Youth: 11th–13th Grade (16+)
- Senior: University-level (19+)
No background in linguistics is required.
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on performance in the rounds:
- Qualification Round: Minimum scores — Junior (15), Youth (17), Senior (20)
- Pre-Final Round: Minimum scores — Junior (16), Youth (20), Senior (24)
- Final Round: Online supervised exam; final ranking determined here
Tie-breakers are based on earlier round results.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries worldwide (Fully international competition)
Where Will the Competition Take Place?
- Conducted online globally
- Final Round requires:
- Teacher supervision or
- Self-recording (screen + webcam)
How Many Participants Will Be Selected?
- Thousands can participate
- Finalists selected based on results from earlier rounds
- National awards also given to top students in each country
(No strict limit on participation)
What is the Benefit of the Competition?
Participants receive:
- Certificates of Participation (all students)
- Bronze, Silver, Gold Honours for top finalists
- Cash prizes worth over $1,000 USD (per age category)
- National Awards for top performers in each country
- Global recognition in linguistics problem-solving
- Training in logic, reasoning, communication, and analytical skills
- Opportunity to join a global student community
How Long Will the Competition Last?
From:
- Qualification Round (Oct–Dec 2025)
- Pre-Final Round (Feb 2026)
- Final Round (March 2026)
Full duration: Approximately 5 months
How to Apply:
- Visit the submission portal
- Download and solve the Qualification Round problem sheet
- Submit your single document (typed or handwritten) with clear reasoning
- Await results and instructions for the next round
Submission Portal: https://lingchallenge.org/submission
